Eurostar has ordered 30 new double-deck high-speed trains, with options for 20 more, marking the biggest fleet investment in its history. The Eurostar Celestia units will run through the Channel Tunnel and expand capacity on routes between the UK and mainland Europe.
Based on the Avelia Horizon platform, the trains will serve all current Eurostar countries and open the door to Geneva and Frankfurt. Each 200-metre train will offer about 540 seats, or 1,080 seats in doubled 400-metre formation. The first trains will enter service in May 2031.
The investment comes amid intensifying European rail competition, with SNCF, Trenitalia, Renfe and Nightjet operators all expanding their networks. Eurostar aims to defend and grow its market position as demand shifts toward low-carbon, cross-border mobility.
The Temple Mills depot in London will be upgraded to maintain the expanded fleet, creating about 350 skilled jobs. The new trains will also cut energy use by 20–50% and feature 97% recyclable components.
FACT BOX — EUROSTAR CELESTIA
- €2bn investment
- 30 + 20 trains
- 540 / 1,080 seats
- 2031 entry into service
- 20–50% energy savings
