Eurostar 3999 at Alstom’s Railway 200: High-Speed Rail Showcase

Eurostar Power Car 3999 to Take Centre Stage at Alstom’s Railway 200 Celebration in Derby

Prepare for a unique glimpse into railway history as Eurostar Class 373 power car 3999, a symbol of international rail cooperation, takes its place at “The Greatest Gathering” in Derby this August. Alstom, a global leader in rail transport and infrastructure, will host the event from Friday 1 to Sunday 3 August 2025 at its historic Litchurch Lane site. This marks a significant highlight of Railway 200, a year-long celebration commemorating the bicentenary of the Stockton and Darlington Railway, widely recognized as the birth of the modern railway. Attendees will have the rare opportunity to see this specific power car up close, normally in regular international service. The gathering promises to be the largest of its kind, showcasing over 100 examples of historic and contemporary rolling stock, offering an unparalleled look at the evolution of rail technology and its impact on global connectivity. The event demonstrates Alstom’s commitment to railway heritage and forward-thinking innovation.

A Rare Exhibit: Power Car 3999’s Significance

Constructed by Alstom in Belfort, France, in 1996, power car 3999 represents a pivotal moment in European high-speed rail history. Originally part of the Trans Manche Super Train project, now branded as the e300, this particular power car holds a special place in the Eurostar fleet. This specific unit, normally stationed at Temple Mills International Depot in East London, was built as a spare. While it has traveled nearly 38,000 kilometers, a relatively small distance compared to the over 7 million kilometers accumulated by other e300 sets, its presence at the gathering is notable. Its inclusion at the event gives visitors a detailed look at the engineering complexities of high-speed rail, which include interoperability across national borders, various operating voltages and signalling systems. Following the event, the power car will be upgraded with European Train Control System (ETCS) equipment for continued use on high-speed routes.

The Greatest Gathering: A Showcase of Railway History and Innovation

The Greatest Gathering, hosted at Alstom’s Litchurch Lane site, is more than just a display of rolling stock. The event will encompass a vast array of railway equipment, from locomotives and carriages to signalling technology and maintenance equipment, highlighting the evolution of rail transport over two centuries. The event will spotlight the history of railways, with the inclusion of Locomotion No. 1, the inaugural locomotive to run on the Stockton and Darlington Railway. This gathering will offer a glimpse into the technological advancements that have shaped the modern railway network. Visitors can expect interactive exhibits, presentations from industry experts, and an opportunity to learn about the future of rail transport, including sustainable practices, and high-speed connectivity.

The e300: A Symbol of Transnational Rail Integration

The Eurostar Class 373, part of Alstom’s Avelia family of high-speed trains, represents the peak of international railway collaboration. These trains, consisting of 18 articulated coaches, have linked London, Paris, and Brussels since 1994, achieving speeds of up to 186 mph (miles per hour). These units, designed for seamless operation across the UK, France and Belgium, utilize multiple voltages and feature seven onboard signalling systems to facilitate smooth cross-border travel. The presence of power car 3999 at The Greatest Gathering emphasizes the significance of the Eurostar and its contribution to sustainable international rail travel, allowing passengers to travel between key cities with efficiency and a reduced environmental impact. This is a symbol of the ongoing investment in high-speed rail connections.

Industry Perspectives and Future Outlook

Rob Whyte, Managing Director at Alstom UK and Ireland, emphasized the significance of the Eurostar power car. He highlights it as “a remarkable feat of engineering…a symbol of international cooperation” and a reminder of what the railway industry can achieve. Hayley Farrar, Head of Engineering at Eurostar, echoed this sentiment, viewing the loan of power car 3999 as “a fitting way to reflect on three decades of international rail travel and our continued investment in sustainable high-speed connections.” This collaboration between Alstom and Eurostar underscores the ongoing commitment to advancements in rail technology and the importance of partnerships within the industry. The emphasis on international cooperation, historical significance and the incorporation of cutting-edge equipment provides a valuable experience for all attendees.

Conclusion

The inclusion of Eurostar power car 3999 at Alstom’s Greatest Gathering in Derby, as part of the Railway 200 celebrations, represents a momentous occasion for the rail industry. The event’s focus on both historical artefacts and modern technology provides a compelling glimpse into the evolution of rail transport, from the early locomotives to the high-speed networks of today. The display of a power car is significant as it provides industry professionals and enthusiasts an unprecedented chance to examine the details that make up this sophisticated machine. Furthermore, the event underscores the importance of international cooperation, technological innovation, and a commitment to sustainable rail practices. The Greatest Gathering also serves as a platform to showcase the future of rail, which includes developments in high-speed and sustainable connections.

Company Summary

Alstom is a global leader in smart and sustainable mobility, providing a wide range of products and services in the railway industry. Their focus on innovation includes trains, signalling systems, infrastructure, and digital mobility solutions. With a rich history, Alstom has played a critical role in the evolution of rail transport from classic steam engines to high-speed electric trains. Alstom is driving a transformation of the rail industry and is a key player in shaping the future of mobility worldwide.