Eurostar bets €2 billion on first-ever revolutionary double-decker trains

Eurostar has unveiled plans to launch revolutionary double-decker trains that will run through the Channel Tunnel.

This is the first time for Britain to get its double-decker trains. The only other double-decker to appear on Britain’s railways was a trial that started in 1949.

In recent development, Eurostar has signed a €2 billion worth agreement with Alstom. Under this deal, the UK train operator will receive 30 to 50 double-decker “Celestia” trains from the manufacturer.

These trains are due to operationalize in 2031 and can carry up to 1000 passengers. Each train would be 200 metres long.

According to Eurostar, Celestia trains will be high-speed double-deckers equipped with 20 percent more seats than its existing trains.

The trains, based on the Avelia Horizon platform, will reach 320 km/h, offer 20% lower energy use and 30% reduced maintenance costs compared to existing models.

Eurostar's chief executive Gwendoline Cazenave said, “It was a proud moment to bring double-decker trains to the UK for the very first time as these trains would bring exceptional comfort.”

The double-decker deal came on the heels of announcing expansion plans in June, including the routes to Frankfurt and Geneva from London.