SNCF Orders 15 Alstom Trains, Approves Recycled Track Components

SNCF orders 15 Alstom Avelia Horizon trains for €600 million, boosting its high-speed fleet. Pandrol’s recycled track components also gain approval, promoting sustainability.

January 21, 2026 8:16 pm

🛑 Key Takeaways:

SNCF has ordered 15 additional Alstom high-speed trains and approved Pandrol’s recycled rubber track components for its network.
The Alstom Avelia Horizon train order is valued at €600 million, translating to a unit cost of €40 million per trainset.
These decisions advance SNCF’s fleet modernization for pan-European service while simultaneously endorsing sustainable materials for infrastructure maintenance.

PARIS, FRANCE – SNCF Voyageurs has placed a €600 million order for 15 additional Avelia Horizon very high-speed trains from Alstom. Concurrently, France’s infrastructure manager, SNCF Reseau, has granted full network approval to Pandrol’s Under Sleeper Pads (USPs) following extensive performance testing.

Category	Specification / Detail
Procurement / Order	15 Alstom Avelia Horizon (TGV) Trainsets
Contract Value	€600 million
Unit Cost	€40 million per trainset
Key Stakeholders	SNCF Voyageurs (Buyer), Alstom (Supplier), SNCF Reseau (Component Approver), Pandrol (Component Supplier)
Delivery Schedule	Expected in 2029
Component Approval	Pandrol Under Sleeper Pads (USPs) made from recycled rubber

Operational & Technical Details

The new Alstom order is for the quad-voltage version of the Avelia Horizon platform. This capability is essential for seamless operation across multiple European electrification systems. The train’s architecture features two compact power cars and double-decker articulated passenger cars, designed for high capacity and performance. Deliveries are scheduled for 2029.

On the infrastructure side, Pandrol’s Under Sleeper Pads secured approval after passing rigorous technical and in-track testing by SNCF Reseau. The USPs, produced from recycled rubber, are designed to improve track elasticity and reduce vibration. Specific technical specifications and the formal date of approval have not been publicly released.

Market Impact Analysis

This follow-on order solidifies Alstom’s role in SNCF’s multi-billion euro TGV fleet renewal program. It reinforces the Avelia Horizon as the successor to legacy TGV models, positioning Alstom strongly against competitors in the European high-speed market. The quad-voltage specification directly supports SNCF’s strategy to expand cross-border services.

For Pandrol, approval from a major national railway like SNCF Reseau is a critical commercial validation. It opens the French market for its sustainable track components and serves as a powerful reference for other European network operators evaluating recycled materials to enhance track longevity and reduce environmental impact.

FAQ: Quick Facts

What is the main value of this contract?

The Alstom train order is valued at €600 million.

When is the expected completion date?

Deliveries for the 15 Avelia Horizon trains are expected to occur in 2029.