Eurostar, the high-speed passenger train operator between the UK and mainland Europe, has today announced its plans for a £700 million capital investment in its fleet. This includes the complete overhaul and refurbishment of the existing fleet of Eurostar trains to a design created by Pininfarina. In addition, Eurostar will purchase 10 new trainsets which will complement its existing fleet and ensure it can deliver the best possible service to its passengers as it expands its operations.
Eurostar e320
Built to a bespoke specification, the new Eurostar e3202 trains will be 'interoperable'. This means that they can operate across the European high speed rail network and can provide direct services between London and a range of city centre destinations throughout Europe.
With capacity to carry more than 900 passengers, the Eurostar e320 will have 20 per cent more seats than the existing Eurostar trains which carry 750 travellers.
Capable of a speed of 320 kph (200 mph), the Eurostar e320 could see journey times between London and Paris reduced to just over two hours, London to Amsterdam to under four hours and London to Geneva to around five hours.
The interiors and external livery of both the e320 and the upgraded existing fleet will be designed by Pininfarina to a specification unique to Eurostar. This design draws on extensive passenger feedback and includes a number of innovative features that will create an exceptional travel experience for customers.
In addition to offering a contemporary, stylish environment in which passengers can work or relax, the new Eurostar fleet will be equipped with the most advanced wi-fi and on-board 'info-tainment' on any train in Europe. This will include real-time travel and destination information as well as interactive entertainment including video-on-demand, music and news-feeds.
To provide a sneak preview, the new Eurostar e320 has been brought to London from Germany and has been on display today in Hyde Park opposite the Royal Albert Hall by the London landmark, the Albert Memorial.