Virgin reveals train design for new cross-Channel rail service to challenge Eurostar
Virgin has revealed the red-and-black design for trains it plans to operate between Paris and London from 2030, positioning itself to challenge Eurostar's monopoly on cross-Channel rail services that has existed since 1994.
The company aims to run 13 daily return services between the two capitals, adding 4.75 million seats annually to the route. The service could create up to 1,000 jobs, according to Virgin.
"We're confident that more journeys between the UK and Europe will be made by train," said Josh Bayliss, chief executive of Virgin Group.
Train specifications and passenger experience
Virgin has signed an agreement with French rail manufacturer Alstom for 12 Avelia Stream trains. The single-deck high-speed trainsets can reach speeds of up to 300km/h, matching Eurostar's current capability, with the platform designed for operating speeds ranging from 200 km/h to 320 km/h.
The trains will feature spaces for work, relaxation and socialising, with onboard areas drawing inspiration from Virgin Atlantic airport lounges. Food and drink offerings will be influenced by Virgin Voyages cruise business, while Virgin Hotels will shape seating and interior design.
Further details about specific seating configurations, dining facilities, ticket prices and travel classes have not yet been announced.
Breaking the monopoly
For more than 30 years, Eurostar has operated as the sole provider of direct rail services through the Channel Tunnel. The company carried 18.9 million passengers in 2023 and has set a target to reach 30 million passengers by 2030.
The Channel Tunnel currently operates at approximately 50 percent capacity, providing scope for new operators to enter the market. A 2025 consultancy report commissioned by London St Pancras Highspeed forecasts that passenger numbers could triple from 11 million to 35 million by 2040, with fares potentially falling by up to 30 percent due to increased competition.
Italy's Trenitalia is also preparing to launch services between Paris and London in 2029, one year before Virgin's proposed start date. Trenitalia plans to operate up to 10 daily return services using 10 Hitachi Rail trainsets, with a project budget estimated between €1-2 billion.
Infrastructure and regulatory approvals
Virgin has secured an agreement with Eurostar to maintain its trains at the Temple Mills International depot in east London. This facility is the only depot in the UK connected to HS1 that can accommodate larger continental European trains, making access to it essential for any cross-Channel operator.
The UK's Office of Rail and Road pre-approved Virgin's framework track access agreement on August 13, 2026, permitting operations from October 1, 2030 until December 31, 2040. EU regulations require that railway undertakings established in EU Member States be granted fair, non-discriminatory access to the Channel Tunnel for international services.
Virgin plans to expand beyond the Paris-London route, aiming to operate up to 20 daily return services connecting London, Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam.
"This new service opens a new chapter in Virgin's railway history and in strengthening connections between the UK and Europe," Mr Bayliss said.
Wider market changes
Competition is also increasing on France's domestic high-speed rail network. Velvet plans to launch services between Paris and Bordeaux, Nantes, Angers and Rennes in 2028, targeting around 10 million additional seats annually across the four routes.
Trenitalia already operates high-speed services between Paris, Lyon and Marseille, while other companies are developing plans to enter the French market.
Virgin said it would announce further details about its planned services, trains and passenger experience in the coming months.
