Eurostar Places $2.3 Billion Order for Up to 50 Double-Decker Avelia Horizon Trains

Eurostar’s $2.3 billion order for up to 50 double-decker Avelia Horizon trains marks a strategic expansion to meet rising passenger demand and intensifying competition on cross-Channel routes. This historic order, confirmed October 23, 2025, with French manufacturer Alstom, includes 30 train sets with an option for 20 more — a potential fleet increase of nearly one-third.

The new Avelia Horizon trains will be the first double-decker models authorized to operate through the Channel Tunnel, boasting a unique design tailored to strict fire safety, evacuation, and aerodynamic requirements. Each 200-meter train set seats 540 passengers, with coupled units accommodating 1,080 — roughly 20-25% more than the current maximum 894 seats in Eurostar’s e320 trains, all without needing track or platform extensions.

This capacity boost translates to an additional ~300,000 seats annually on core London–Paris services alone, enabling Eurostar to meet surging passenger numbers. The current fleet of 51 trains will potentially grow to 67, aligning with Eurostar’sDestination 2030 strategy aiming for a 30% increase in passenger volumes through capacity and network expansion.

Sustainability is a focus for the Avelia Horizon, whose aerodynamic design and lightweight bodyshell reduce energy consumption by 20-30%, offer 97% recyclability, and incorporate predictive maintenance technologies that cut downtime and costs by 30%.

Beyond the Channel Tunnel, the new trains will serve routes across Germany, Belgium, France, the Netherlands, and the UK, with new services launching to Geneva by winter 2026 and Frankfurt targeted for 2027.

This move strategically positions Eurostar to retain its leadership in European high-speed rail amid emerging competition from start-ups and consortiums introducing new cross-Channel services.

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