Eurostar has announced a landmark €2 billion investment in up to 50 new double-decker high-speed trains, marking a major leap forward in sustainable European rail travel.
Built by Alstom, the new fleet will be the first double-decker trains to operate through the Channel Tunnel and on the UK network.
An initial order of 30 trains has been confirmed, with an option for 20 more, supporting Eurostar’s ambitious goal to reach 30 million annual passengers.
The Eurostar Celestia fleet will be based on Alstom’s Avelia Horizon platform, with bespoke design features to deliver a premium passenger experience. Each 200-metre train will offer around 540 seats, with the potential for 1,080 seats when running in 400-metre formation.
The new trains will be interoperable across five countries currently served by Eurostar, with future expansion to Geneva and Frankfurt. The first six trains will enter service in May 2031, following delivery in January 2031.
Eurostar Celestia will be the most sustainable fleet in the company’s history:
- 97% recyclable components
- 25% made from recycled materials
- 20–50% energy savings compared to the current fleet
- Designed to withstand climate change impacts
Eurostar CEO Gwendoline Cazenave said:
“Placing this milestone order marks the concrete realisation of Eurostar’s ambitious growth strategy - to reach 30 million passengers by investing in a brand-new fleet. We’re particularly proud to bring double-decker trains to the UK for the very first time.
“Customers can expect a very special new train with Eurostar Celestia, which will offer exceptional comfort, a unique Eurostar experience and new surprises to be revealed. This is a golden age for international sustainable travel – and Eurostar is leading the race.”
The design process includes input from accessibility groups and Eurostar team members, ensuring enhanced comfort and inclusivity for all passengers.
Eurostar will maintain the new fleet at its Temple Mills depot in London, investing €80 million to upgrade facilities. This will create 350 new skilled jobs, adding to the 450 UK-based roles already at the depot.
Once fully delivered, the new fleet will expand Eurostar’s total train count to 67, a 30% increase from today.
This investment supports Eurostar’s long-term vision for greener, faster, and more inclusive travel, connecting a constellation of European cities with world-class rail service.
Image credit: Eurostar
