The new generation high-speed train Oxygène, developed in collaboration with the French Ministry of Transport SNCF (French National Railways) and the Spanish manufacturer CAF (Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles), was unveiled at an official ceremony in Villeneuve, France. This modern train is expected to mark a significant milestone in French intercity travel.
Following the launch, the Oxygène train will begin a rigorous testing phase. According to plans, testing will begin in the second half of 2025 and will take around a year to complete by mid-2026. The aim is to obtain a commercial operating license by the end of 2026.
In line with SNCF’s ambitious plans, a total of fifty Oxygène trains are expected to enter service between 2027 and 2029. This new, modern fleet will replace the old Corail locomotives that have been in service for many years, particularly on important routes such as Paris-Clermont-Ferrand, Paris-Limoges-Toulouse and Bordeaux-Toulouse-Marseille. This change aims to offer passengers a more comfortable, fast and reliable travel experience.
Production and Technical Specifications of Oxygène
The Oxygène high-speed train is meticulously produced at CAF’s facilities in Reichshoffen, north-eastern France. Each train unit contains ten carriages and can reach an impressive speed of 200 kilometres per hour.
Oxygène trains have a design that prioritizes the comfort of both first and second class passengers. The trains have a total capacity of 103 passengers, 317 first class and 420 second class. During busy travel periods, two train units can be connected to form a double train formation, thus reaching a capacity of up to 840 passengers at a time. This feature is of great importance in terms of meeting passenger demand, especially on busy routes.
Infrastructure Improvements and Investments
In order to successfully put the new high-speed train fleet into service, infrastructure work is also being carried out simultaneously. SNCF Réseau (France Railway Network) and the French government are making a significant investment of €2,36 billion in total to improve the existing railway infrastructure. These comprehensive improvements aim to ensure full compatibility of the railway lines with Oxygène trains, increase the maximum speed that the trains can reach and increase the overall traction capacity. These investments will not only ensure the smooth operation of the new trains, but will also increase the overall efficiency of the existing railway network.
SNCF placed an initial order with CAF in 2019 for 750 Oxygène trains worth €28 million. However, the delivery of the trains was delayed due to technical issues with the braking and drive systems. Despite this, SNCF exercised its option under the existing contract to purchase an additional 2024 units worth €400 million in December 22. This second order is seen as a critical step in expanding the fleet and serving more passengers.
Both train orders are being fully financed by the French government. This significant investment clearly demonstrates the government’s commitment to rail transport and its vision to modernise the country’s transport infrastructure. Once in service, the new Oxygène trains will replace old and worn-out locomotives, providing more sustainable, more efficient and more comfortable intercity travel across France and making a significant contribution to the future of the country’s transport network.
