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France announces purchase of 30 locomotives and 180 cars for night trains

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France’s transport minister, Philippe Tabarot, has announced a plan to revitalise night trains by purchasing 180 new carriages and 30 locomotives.

This is the first significant effort in almost 45 years to modernise the night service. However, environmental and rail organisations have criticised the purchase, arguing that it will only serve to replace ageing stock rather than expand the network.

Although President Emmanuel Macron promised “a dozen” new lines by 2030, the current investment is insufficient. The Réseau Action Climat (RAC) warns that 300 additional cars would be needed to meet expansion targets.

Since the reactivation of the Paris-Nice service in 2021, France has seen a significant increase in demand for night trains, with one million passengers carried in 2024.

However, financial and logistical challenges persist, limiting the service’s growth. The lack of a clear timetable for future expansion leaves many questioning the viability of the government’s plan.

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