The new trains are expected to improve travel efficiency, reduce journey times, and potentially lower ticket prices, offering a more luxurious, sustainable, and convenient travel experience in Europe.

Overall, this move reflects Eurostar’s anticipation of increased demand and the need to adapt to a highly competitive market, positioning itself for future growth in cross-border rail travel.

Production will involve ten of Alstom’s French sites and Belgian expertise, with electronic components supplied from the Charleroi site, while the Bruges plant will not participate.

The trains will operate on the high-speed line built to European standards, which can accommodate double-decker trains, unlike most UK rail routes that are limited by infrastructure constraints.

The design of the Celestia fleet will allow seamless travel across five countries, facilitating cross-border tourism and making journeys more accessible and convenient.

Eurostar, which transported approximately 19.5 million passengers in 2024, is also exploring ways to expand its depot space, with the UK Office of Rail and Road expected to decide soon, influencing its growth prospects.

This fleet expansion is part of Eurostar’s broader strategy to increase influence and competitiveness in the evolving international high-speed rail industry, especially following the 2022 merger with Thalys.

Eurostar is set to introduce a new fleet of double-decker trains from 2031, with an order for 30 to 50 units worth €2 billion from Alstom, aiming to meet rising international rail travel demand through the Channel Tunnel.

The new trains, based on Alstom's Avelia Horizon model, will feature spacious cabins, larger seating areas, reclining seats, increased legroom, premium dining, Wi-Fi, and a lower floor for easier access, all designed to enhance passenger comfort on long journeys.

These trains will be 200 meters long, capable of reaching speeds up to 300 km/h, and will be compatible across multiple European countries, with the first six expected to enter service in May 2031.

The investment aims to sustain Eurostar’s competitive edge amid increasing competition from companies like Virgin Group, FS Italiane, Trenitalia, and Gemini Trains, with SNCF actively seeking to grow its market share in the European high-speed rail sector.

The new fleet is designed to be energy-efficient, consuming 20-50% less energy, built with 97% recyclable components, and aligned with Europe’s sustainability goals, embodying a vision of sustainable and competitive European mobility.