Eurostar double-decker trains to run through Channel Tunnel from 2031

Eurostar is to introduce Eurostar double-decker trains through the Channel Tunnel for the first time, in what it says is a major expansion of its cross-Channel services.

The rail operator has confirmed it will order up to 50 new trains from manufacturer Alstom as part of a €2bn (£1.74bn) investment. The first six are expected to enter service in 2031, increasing the company’s capacity and marking a new chapter for the only cross-Channel operator currently serving London and Paris.

Each train will be 200 metres long and can be coupled to create a 400-metre service carrying around 1,080 passengers. The new Celestia models will be the first double-decker high-speed trains to pass through the Channel Tunnel.

Eurostar currently operates a fleet of 51 trains and carried 19.5 million passengers last year. The company aims to grow this to 30 million, with chief executive Gwendoline Cazenave calling the new fleet “a major step forward for comfort, capacity and connectivity”.

“I am particularly proud to bring double-decker trains to the UK for the very first time,” Ms Cazenave said. “They will allow us to grow sustainably while giving our customers exceptional comfort.”

The move is also expected to lead to greater competition on price. Railway commentator Tony Miles said operating costs would remain the same while capacity increases, meaning “it costs exactly the same to run the train whether it’s got twice the number of seats or not”.

Certification and infrastructure

The new Celestia fleet will undergo a multi-year certification process for use in the Channel Tunnel and across the countries where Eurostar operates. The trains will be 4.33 metres high, 16 centimetres taller than the company’s current E320 models.

The Temple Mills depot in east London is set to play a central role in maintaining the new trains. Eurostar has pledged €80 million to upgrade the site, which is currently the only depot in the UK capable of accommodating continental-sized trains. The investment comes amid growing interest from potential competitors, including Spanish start-up Evolyn, Virgin, and Gemini Trains in partnership with Uber.

The Office of Rail and Road is reviewing multiple access proposals and is expected to make a decision on how the depot will be shared within weeks.

You can find more technical information about the new trains in the official specifications published by the manufacturer.

Industry response

Some experts have hailed Eurostar’s decision as a strategic response to looming competition. “Eurostar has seized an opportunity,” Mr Miles said, noting that part of its fleet is approaching retirement.

Pete Waterman, music producer and train enthusiast, pointed out that while the line between St Pancras and the Channel Tunnel can support double-decker trains, adapting the rest of Britain’s network would be “astronomically expensive”.

“Although Eurostar is to be applauded for announcing this, most of the UK railways simply can’t take double-deckers. Our infrastructure dates back nearly 200 years,” he said.

Rail commentator Mark Smith added that the upper deck seats will offer some of the best views on any Eurostar service. He described the announcement as “good news for travellers”, highlighting the likely increase in capacity on popular routes.

For more stories on London’s transport and infrastructure and beyond, follow EyeOnLondon for informed and independent reporting.

[Image Credit | Eurostar]

Follow us on:

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for the latest videos and updates!

We value your thoughts! Share your feedback and help us make EyeOnLondon even better!