Virgin unveils its future cross-Channel train as it gears up to take on Eurostar
Group plans to launch services from London in 2030 and hopes to outshine competitor with design inspiration from its airline, cruise and hotel arms Flash interiors, fancy food and maybe even a bar: Virgin has unveiled a mock-up of its future cross-Channel train, with a pledge to create “something genuinely new”. The group is planning to launch rail services from London to the continent in 2030,…
Virgin has unveiled a mock-up of its future cross-Channel train, signaling its plans to challenge Eurostar for dominance in UK-Europe rail travel. Set to launch from London in 2030, the company aims to outshine its competitor with a design inspired by its airline, cruise, and hotel divisions. The new trains will feature interiors reminiscent of Virgin Atlantic's Clubhouses, offering flexible onboard spaces for working, relaxing or socializing.
Culinary offerings will be influenced by Virgin Cruises, while aesthetic elements will follow the Virgin Hotels brand. Virgin Group CEO Josh Bayliss expressed confidence in the project, stating that it draws on four decades of travel and hospitality expertise to deliver a genuinely novel service. The group has ordered 12 trains from Alstom, with track access confirmed until at least 2040.
In addition to competing with Eurostar, Virgin will explore connecting its rail and airline networks, potentially facilitating passenger travel between France and England via Virgin Atlantic flights. Italy's state-owned Trenitalia is also preparing to enter the cross-Channel market, having recently secured a €2 billion deal for 19 new trains from Hitachi.
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