Eurostar confirms new double-decker trains for all routes, incl. the Netherlands
Eurostar announced on Wednesday a 2 billion euro order for up to 50 new double-decker trains, marking a major expansion of its fleet.
The new trains will ride the rails in each country where Eurostar currently operates, including the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Belgium, France, and Germany. They will also expand service to Geneva and Frankfurt.
The fleet, named Eurostar Celestia, will carry roughly 540 passengers per 200-meter train, or 1,080 in 400-meter formations through the Channel Tunnel. The first six trains are expected in January 2031, with commercial service starting in May 2031. Alstom Group builds the fleet.
The new trains will operate alongside Eurostar’s current 17 e320 units, raising total fleet capacity by 30 percent. All trains will be maintained at London’s Temple Mills depot, where 80 million euros in upgrades will create about 350 skilled jobs.
The all-electric Celestia trains are made from 97 percent recyclable components, use up to 50 percent less energy than the current fleet, and are designed to withstand climate impacts. Passenger and accessibility groups contributed to the design.
“Eurostar Celestia will deliver exceptional comfort and a unique travel experience while bringing double-decker trains to the U.K. for the first time,” CEO Gwendoline Cazenave said.
Alstom CEO Henri Poupart-Lafarge added that the trains combine high-speed performance, energy efficiency, and passenger comfort while supporting sustainable European mobility.
