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Virgin has unveiled a first look at its planned cross-Channel trains, with striking black and red designs and ambitions to take on Eurostar from 2030.
The company intends to run 20 daily return services between London, Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam, adding almost 7.5 million seats a year to the route. It has signed a deal with French rail giant Alstom for 12 new high-speed trains, with promises of a more distinctly Virgin experience on board.
The UK-based Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has also published a signed agreement between Virgin and Eurostar which will allow Virgin to maintain its trains, which will be capable of travelling at speeds of up to 300km/h, at the Temple Mills International depot in London.
Although the trains, which will be a direct rival to the existing Eurostar service, have been slated for a while now, this is the first time we’ve been given an idea of what they’ll look like, and what travellers can expect.
Clubhouse influences and loyalty benefits
Although details of the appearance of the trains are currently sparse, Virgin has released a photo of a black and red train and says each one will boast customised interiors designed for cross-Channel travel.
Before stepping onboard, passengers will be able to enjoy pre-departure areas and onboard social spaces inspired by Virgin Atlantic’s Clubhouses in some airports. Accessibility will be a top consideration across all of the trains, too.
Meanwhile, Virgin’s cruising wing, Virgin Voyages, will influence the food and drinks on offer, while Virgin Hotels will inspire seating and communal onboard areas.
For customers who collect perks via the loyalty platform Virgin Red, travelling on the trains will provide opportunities to earn points and spend them across the Virgin brand.
“We’ll be connecting London with some of Europe’s greatest cities and giving passengers a distinctive new choice in cross-Channel travel,” said Josh Bayliss, CEO of Virgin Group.
“Virgin has always thrived on challenging the status quo and aimed to provide our customers with a great experience. We’ll bring the same approach to the cross-Channel route, making the journey something to look forward to as much as the destination.”