Virgin to compete with Eurostoar with high-speed Amsterdam-London train launching 2030
Virgin plans to launch a high-speed train between London and Amsterdam by 2030. The British rail regulator gave Virgin the green light to launch a service through the Channel Tunnel, introducing competition for Eurostar, CEO Richard Branson announced.
“Our ambition is to connect London St Pancras International with Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam by 2030, with plans to expand even further across Europe,” Branson said.
Virgin plans to launch the service with 12 brand new Avelia Steam trains, built by Alstom. “These stunning, energy-efficient trains will deliver a modern, comfortable, and unmistakably Virgin travel experience,” Branson said.
According to the CEO, it is high time that Eurostar gets some competition after having a monopoly on the Channel route for 30 years. “I’ve always believed competition drives innovation, and that’s exactly what we will bring to the Channel Tunnel. This is what we do best,” he said. “It’s early days, but the tracks are being laid for something transformative. We can’t wait to welcome you abroad.”
Seven months ago, Virgin said it wanted to raise 300 million euros from investors, and 400 million euros more in loans, to compete with Eurostar on high-speed train routes between London, Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam. This announcement was made shortly after London St Pancras High Speed, the owner of the rail terminal used by Eurostar, said they intended to double capacity at the St. Pancras station.
The firm in charge of the Channel Tunnel, Getlink, also promised 50 million euros in incentives to get more railways to launch new cross-Channel services. Despite simplifying some restrictions, the key obstacles not only include space at rail stations, but also the acquisition of rail stock that can operate safely in the tunnel.
