France Night Trains: New Tender Unveiled for 2026

France Night Trains Tender Unveiled. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

France’s Transport Ministry launches a tender for France night trains in 2026. Companies compete for contracts covering vital long-distance routes.

Don’t miss…Kars-Nakhchivan Railway Construction Begins in Turkey

Authorities offer routes on traditional lines, currently operated by the National Railway Company, SNCF. Some services remain paused because infrastructure reconstruction temporarily halted operations on those tracks.

The tender includes five key routes starting from Paris to various destinations across France. These routes connect Paris to Briançon, Nice, and potentially Ventimiglia in Italy during summer.

Additional connections link Paris to Aurillac, Albi, Toulouse, and Latour-de-Carol, extending to Nîmes and Marseille. Routes also reach Tarbes and Hendaye, with possible extensions into San Sebastián, Spain.

Collectively, these five routes cover four million train-kilometers and one billion passenger-kilometers annually. However, expansions could boost those figures to 6.7 million train-kilometers and 2.2 billion passenger-kilometers.

France Night Trains: Contract and Rolling Stock Details

The eight-year contract starts in December 2030, and officials may extend it by one or two years. France will lease rolling stock, including carriages and locomotives, to the chosen operator.

The state also provides depots for maintaining and preparing trains for their overnight journeys. This ensures operators can efficiently manage the fleet and maintain high service standards.

In February 2025, the ministry announced a separate tender for night train rolling stock supplies. That contract includes a firm order for 27 dual-power locomotives and 180 passenger carriages.

The carriages offer four categories, featuring seating and sleeper options for diverse passenger needs. This move strengthens France’s commitment to enhancing sustainable long-distance travel options.

France Night Trains Boost Connectivity and Sustainability

Officials expect the tender to attract strong interest from transport firms across Europe. Companies will compete fiercely because France night trains remain popular for eco-friendly travel.

France aims to revitalize its overnight rail network and reduce reliance on short-haul flights. Thus, this initiative aligns with broader environmental goals and improves regional connectivity.

Bidders must submit detailed proposals showcasing operational expertise and innovative service plans. Successful applicants will play a key role in shaping France’s night train future.

The ministry emphasizes reliability and passenger comfort as top priorities for the winning operator. Consequently, the tender marks a significant step in modernizing France’s rail transport system.

Industry experts predict this project will stimulate economic growth in regions served by these routes. Moreover, it reinforces France’s leadership in sustainable transport across the European Union.

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