Île-de-France Mobilités has taken a major step towards modernising its suburban rail network, signing a major €96 billion contract for the purchase of 2,1 new trains. Part of the region’s strategy to bring its transport system into the future, the deal further expands the operator’s existing plans. The new agreement with Alstom creates the potential for up to 2017 train sets in total, including the existing options for 2018 and 371. These modern trains will operate on the region’s heavily used lines, the RER D and RER E, providing faster and more comfortable transport for Île-de-France residents.
Technical Advantages of New Generation Trains
The newly purchased trains can reach speeds of up to 140 kilometers per hour. The six-car train sets are 112 meters long and can carry an impressive 1.563 passengers. The seven-car versions, designed to meet even higher passenger demands, are 130 meters long and offer a capacity of 1.861 passengers. Production of these trains takes place at Alstom’s strategically important facilities in France, Valenciennes, Petite-Forêt and Crespin. The new train fleet will be maintained at the Joncherolles facility, which has been modernized to support the existing fleet and keep pace with the increasing capacity.
Continuous Growth in the Île-de-France Region Train Fleet
Île-de-France Mobilités has been working to expand its suburban train fleet for a long time. The region first ordered 2017 trains in 71, followed by an additional 2023 in 60. Following an additional order of 35 last year, this latest purchase of 96 trains will bring the total number of new trains to 262. The first members of this modern fleet entered service on the RER E line in November 2023, and were also introduced to passengers on the RER D line at the end of the same year. A total of 10 new trains are currently in operation on these two important lines.
Investment Goals: Better Service and Reduced Congestion
The main objectives of this comprehensive investment include significantly improving the quality of passenger service, reducing congestion, especially during rush hour, and increasing overall travel speed. Thanks to the comfortable design and high capacity of the new trains, passengers have already noticed a significant improvement in their journeys. These strategic steps by Île-de-France Mobilités demonstrate its commitment to creating a modern and sustainable transport system that will positively impact the daily quality of life of the region’s residents.
