Italian operator plans new London-Paris rail service for 2029

FS Italiane ordered 19 Frecciarossa trains from Hitachi Rail for €2bn
London-Paris service launches in 2029 competing with Eurostar
Trains feature 10 Gbps Wi-Fi, upgraded interiors and 97.1 pc recyclability
Initial deployment on Paris-Lyon, Paris-Milan and Paris-Marseille routes
€80m maintenance facility at Maisons-Alfort Pompadour creating 2,000 jobs

FS Italiane Group has officially finalised a €2bn agreement with Hitachi Rail to supply 19 next-generation Frecciarossa high-speed trains, solidifying its timeline to launch a competitive London-Paris rail service by 2029. This massive investment includes the construction of the fleet, long-term technical maintenance, and support. It is aimed at shattering Eurostar’s historic monopoly on the cross-Channel passenger corridor.

Hitachi Rail will build the fleet, expected to utilise advanced, cross-border interoperable trainsets. The trains will feature next-generation Wi-Fi connectivity capable of reaching speeds up to 10 Gbps. Redesigned cabin configurations across all classes include an updated premium bistro car concept and enhanced catering services. The design has a high focus on eco-friendly design with a recyclability rate of up to 97.1 pc and a massive reduction in CO₂ equivalent emissions compared to legacy high-speed train designs.

Launch is confirmed for 2029, giving Hitachi about three years to clear the complex technical and safety certifications required for the Channel Tunnel. Before entering the Channel Tunnel, the new fleet will first phase into service to bolster Trenitalia France’s current frequencies on the popular Paris-Lyon, Paris-Milan, and Paris-Marseille routes. Trenitalia France has previously indicated an operational target of running up to 10 daily round trips between the two capital cities. A dedicated €80m maintenance facility is currently being constructed at Maisons-Alfort Pompadour, scheduled to open by late 2029. The project is anticipated to generate approximately 2,000 jobs distributed across England, France, and Italy.

Gianpiero Strisciuglio, FS Italiane Group’s new CEO shared: “The order represents a strategic step towards an integrated European high-speed network linking major cities.”