Eurostar has announced ambitious plans to invest in up to 50 new trains, which will increase its fleet by approximately 30% by the early 2030s.
This move comes as the group’s revenue exceeded €2 billion for the first time in 2023, signalling strong financial health and growth potential.
Expanding the Fleet
Eurostar currently operates a fleet of 51 trains, which includes: 17 e320s, 8 e300s, 17 PBKAs and 9 PBAs.
Following the investment, Eurostar expects to operate up to 67 trains, retaining the 17 e320s and replacing the other rolling stock with the new fleet of 50 trains. Details on the suppliers for the new trains have not been disclosed, but Eurostar promises that the new trains will set high standards for customer experience and comfort.
Eurostar aims to transport 30 million passengers per year by the end of the decade. The company recently pledged to power its trains across its five-country network with 100% renewable energy by 2030, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability.
Financial Performance
The group’s earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) reached €423 million in 2023. Routes with the strongest growth year-on-year included:
– London-Amsterdam: Up 38%
– London-Brussels: Up 33%
– London-Paris: Up 25%
This robust performance in 2023 allows Eurostar to confidently invest in its future fleet and expand its services.
Gwendoline Cazenave, Eurostar’s CEO, commented on the expansion plans: “In our 30th birthday year, Eurostar has set out ambitious plans to carry 30 million passengers by 2030 and become the backbone of sustainable travel in Europe. Just seven months after the launch of the new Eurostar, we are well on our way, breaking records in 2023 in terms of passenger numbers and revenue.”
Cazenave emphasised that customer service will be a priority in the design of the new trains: “Investing in up to 50 new trains will provide more capacity and give customers something really special, offering a cutting-edge experience in terms of comfort, accessibility, and sustainability. Customer service will be top of mind in the design, ensuring the unique experience Eurostar is known for long into the future.”