### A Future of Comfort and Connectivity on France’s Railways
In a significant development for French transportation, the SNCF Voyageurs has signed a lucrative agreement with CAF for the delivery of 22 additional Oxygène Intercités trains, set to enhance services between Bordeaux and Marseille. This deal builds upon an earlier contract from 2019, which included 28 trains aimed at routes like Paris-Limoges and Paris-Clermont-Ferrand. With a total value exceeding **400 million euros**, these modern trains will greatly improve intercity connectivity.
The Oxygène trains provide comfortable seating for **420 passengers**, featuring 317 second-class and 103 first-class seats designed for maximum comfort. Amenities will include **LED reading lights, USB charging ports, high-speed WiFi**, and even a dining area, making for a superior travel experience reminiscent of the classic Corail trains from half a century ago.
This new order secures work for the CAF facility located in **Reichshoffen**, Alsace, which will manufacture all 22 trains, promoting local employment and expertise. The plant, which employs 740 individuals and houses over 130 engineers, is not only pivotal for train production but also plays a role in design and testing.
Testing of the Oxygène model is ongoing in the Velim testing circuit in the Czech Republic, ensuring these trains meet all necessary safety regulations. Upcoming trials on French tracks are anticipated to commence in **2025**, with commercial services expected to launch by **2026**, marking a new chapter in efficient French rail travel.
Revolutionizing Rail Travel: SNCF’s Oxygène Trains Set to Transform Intercity Connectivity
### Introduction
The French railway system is poised for a significant upgrade, thanks to the new agreement between SNCF Voyageurs and CAF for the delivery of 22 Oxygène Intercités trains. This agreement not only marks an expansion of French rail services but also emphasizes the commitment to enhancing passenger experience and comfort.
### Key Features of Oxygène Trains
The Oxygène trains are designed with passenger comfort and modern amenities in mind. Here are some notable features:
– **Capacity**: Each train can accommodate **420 passengers** with **317 second-class and 103 first-class seats**.
– **Amenities**: Passengers will enjoy **LED reading lights, USB charging ports, high-speed WiFi**, and a dedicated dining area.
– **Design Inspiration**: The Oxygène trains take cues from France’s classic Corail trains, blending nostalgia with modern technology.
### Sustainability Innovations
SNCF and CAF are not only investing in passenger comfort but also in sustainability. The Oxygène trains are expected to utilize advanced technologies that reduce energy consumption and minimize carbon emissions, aligning with broader European goals for sustainable transportation.
### Economic Impact and Local Job Creation
The manufacturing of the 22 Oxygène trains at the CAF facility in **Reichshoffen**, Alsace, will have significant economic benefits. This facility is essential for local employment, providing jobs to over **740 staff members**, including more than **130 engineers**. The project is expected to boost the local economy and reinforce the importance of skilled labor in train manufacturing.
### Timeline for Implementation
With testing currently underway at the **Velim testing circuit** in the Czech Republic, the Oxygène trains are on track for initial trials on French railways scheduled for **2025**. Commercial services are anticipated to begin by **2026**, ultimately enriching the travel experience for commuters and tourists alike.
### Conclusion
The introduction of Oxygène Intercités trains represents a transformative shift for intercity rail travel in France. With their focus on comfort, connectivity, and sustainability, these trains are set to enhance the overall passenger experience while providing significant economic benefits to the local workforce. As we look forward to 2026, the future of rail travel in France appears bright and full of possibilities.
For more information on the future of train travel in France, visit the official SNCF website.
