Talgo Avril: Next-Generation High-Speed Trains in Spain

In May 2024, Spain made a significant leap forward in its railway infrastructure by introducing the high-speed Talgo Avril trains, this is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The first ten AVE service trains began operating on routes from Madrid to Galicia and Asturias, offering a unique opportunity to travel at speeds of up to 330 km/h.

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These trains are the first in the world capable of changing track gauge, significantly enhancing their flexibility and versatility.

Technological Innovations and Advantages

Talgo Avril features several technological innovations. The primary characteristic of these trains is their ability to change track gauge.

This capability allows them to travel across different railway networks, which is particularly relevant for Spain, where both standard (1435 mm) and broad (1668 mm) gauges exist.

Thanks to this technology, Talgo Avril can easily adapt to various routes without the need for additional transfers or changes of train sets.

Another significant advantage of the new trains is their high speed. The ability to accelerate up to 330 km/h makes Talgo Avril one of the fastest trains in the world. This greatly reduces travel time and makes rail travel even more attractive to passengers.

Commercial Operation and Economic Efficiency

The launch of the first ten Talgo Avril trains on AVE routes is just the beginning. Another five of these trains, designed for the standard 1435 mm gauge, have started operating between Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, and Murcia as part of the budget Avlo service.

This highlights Spain’s commitment to making high-speed travel accessible to a broader range of passengers.

Talgo claims that the new trains provide significant economic efficiency for the operator.

Increased carriage capacity and reduced tare weight allow for transporting more passengers at lower operational costs. This is an important factor for the development of sustainable and economically viable rail transport.

The Long-Awaited Launch and Future Prospects

The story of Talgo Avril began in 2012 with the introduction of the first prototype.

However, the project faced several delays, and deliveries were postponed by more than three years. Despite these challenges, the launch of Talgo Avril is a significant achievement for the Spanish railway sector.

These trains not only improve the quality of domestic travel but also open new opportunities for international cooperation.

The ability to change track gauge makes Talgo Avril an ideal candidate for use on cross-border routes, which could stimulate the development of international rail connections.

The introduction of Talgo Avril trains marks a new stage in the development of high-speed rail transport in Spain.

Technological innovations, high speed, and economic efficiency make these trains an essential element of modern transport infrastructure.

With their arrival, rail travel becomes even more convenient, fast, and accessible, opening new horizons for passengers and operators.

Video: Renfe

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