CAF Unveils New Oxygène Train for Intercity Routes

CAF, in partnership with SNCF Voyageurs, has unveiled the new Oxygène electric train, designed for France’s national intercity network known as TET. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

These trains will replace outdated locomotive-hauled Corail coaches running between Paris and Clermont-Ferrand, Paris and Limoges, and Bordeaux and Marseille via Toulouse. They will operate on conventional, non-high-speed lines.

Don’t miss…Oklahoma-Texas Train Route at Risk Without Texas Funding

The project is state-funded. The initial contract for 28 trains was signed in 2019, but their launch was delayed until March 2027 due to technical issues.

An additional order of 22 trains, placed in late 2024, is also scheduled to enter service in 2027. This expansion will allow more weekday trips on key corridors.

The number of daily round trips will increase to nine between Paris and Clermont-Ferrand, and to eleven between Paris and Limoges. Service frequency may rise further after a new operator is selected in 2028.

Each Oxygène train has 10 cars and can carry 420 passengers, including 103 in first class—20 more than older trains.

CAF Implements Modern Solutions for Passenger Comfort

The trains offer ergonomic seating with reservation indicators, free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and USB ports. Accessibility features allow passengers with reduced mobility to choose seats in both classes.

The central car includes space for 10 bicycles, with charging ports for e-bikes. For the first time in France, onboard screens will display a live feed from the driver’s cab.

CAF Invests in Rolling Stock and Rail Infrastructure

Each train includes CCTV and a real-time information system. Total investment in the project amounts to approximately €1.5 billion, covering the construction of a new depot and upgrades to operating lines.

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed: