A new player is emerging in France’s rail market, with Le Train initially focused on connecting major cities in the west – Bordeaux, Rennes, and Nantes – without routing through Paris, offering both rapid and frequent service.
However, the company, founded by Alain Gétraud, has adjusted its strategy to target two of the country’s most critical rail corridors: Paris–Bordeaux and Paris–Rennes. This expansion is solidified by agreements with SNCF Réseau to secure track access on these highly competitive lines.
Le Train is now prioritizing the busiest and most profitable routes, a move that is already creating friction with SNCF Voyageurs, which argues that the new entrant is focusing on lucrative lines at the expense of broader regional connectivity.
A Three-Way Battle on the Most Profitable Lines
On the Paris–Rennes route, Le Train will compete with established operators TGV Inoui and Ouigo. However, the most intense competition is expected on the Paris–Bordeaux line.
Another competitor, Velvet, is also refining its plans to launch services around 2028. Backed by significant funding and with trains currently under construction by Alstom, Velvet appears to have a head start.
New entrants to the French high-speed rail market remain limited, with only Trenitalia and Renfe successfully establishing a presence through subsidiaries of larger groups. The arrival of Le Train and Velvet could mark a significant turning point for high-speed rail in France.
Competition Already Raising Concerns
However, this increased competition is not without its critics. A report commissioned by the SNCF Group’s Works Council from Groupe3E Consultants warns of several potential negative effects. The study suggests that competition could lead to higher ticket prices, driven by inflation and financial constraints. It also highlights the risk of territorial imbalances, with operators concentrating on profitable lines and neglecting broader service coverage.
A key concern is the potential end of the current cross-subsidization system, which allows SNCF Voyageurs to fund less profitable lines using revenue from the most lucrative routes. Without this mechanism, the stability of the entire network could be jeopardized. The report also points to a potential fragmentation of rail services, particularly for regional TER lines, with possible impacts on costs, service quality, and working conditions.
Ambitious Plans… But Many Uncertainties Remain
Despite its ambitions, Le Train still faces significant hurdles. Securing trains remains a challenge, as the company is considering rolling stock from Spanish manufacturer Talgo, but the approval process for these trains in France could take several years. A launch before 2027-2028 appears uncertain, with some estimates pushing the timeline to 2030. Profitability on the Paris–Bordeaux route remains a challenge due to high track access fees.
To differentiate itself, Le Train promises an enhanced passenger experience, including improved Wi-Fi, redesigned onboard services, and competitive fares. The company is also developing its own maintenance center, signaling its commitment to long-term operation. However, between promises of innovation and growing criticism, one thing is certain: the battle for France’s rail market has only just begun.
