A £700 million luxury train fleet, "Eurostar," makes its grand debut in 2015

By MOOK Travel Life Chen Guanxin, compiled and reported

 

Just two days ago, we shared the latest updates on the luxury train "Seven Stars in Kyushu." Now, here's another major railway news update. Eurostar, the only high-speed train service that directly connects the UK to France and Belgium, has announced that 10 newly purchased trains will go into operation in 2015. By then, the Eurostar fleet will consist of 24 trains, including 14 refurbished e300 series trains and 10 brand-new e320 series trains.

Eurostar’s investment amounts to £700 million (approximately NT$33.3 billion). Starting in 2014, the company invited the world-renowned Italian design firm Pininfarina to redesign and refurbish 14 e300 series trains. The newly ordered 10 e320 series trains can accommodate over 900 passengers and their luggage — 20% more seating than the current Eurostar trains, which hold 750 passengers.

 

Other software and hardware features of the Eurostar fleet will also be comprehensively upgraded, particularly in response to the growing demand for onboard Wi-Fi and infotainment systems. Entertainment channels, music, news, and interactive services providing real-time travel and destination information will ensure Eurostar remains at the forefront of European train travel.

 

In addition, Rail Europe, the official sales partner of Eurostar, will provide Eurostar passengers with a Rail Europe coupon booklet, offering discounts and special offers in several major European cities. These cover three main categories: fashion shopping, landmark attractions, and city sightseeing.

 

 

●  Related reading:

"Seven Stars in Kyushu": A ¥3 billion Japanese luxury sleeper train set to depart in October

http://goo.gl/15EdMP

 

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