Virgin unveils its future cross-Channel train as it gears up to take on Eurostar
Virgin Group has unveiled plans to launch cross-Channel rail services by 2030, aiming to compete with Eurostar. The new trains will feature designs inspired by Virgin's airline, cruise, and hotel brands.
Why it matters
The entry of a new operator into the cross-Channel rail market could disrupt the current monopoly and change the landscape of international rail travel in Europe.
A mock-up of the new Virgin trains. The operator has secured track access in the UK until at least 2040. Photograph: Virgin A mock-up of the new Virgin trains. The operator has secured track access in the UK until at least 2040. Photograph: Virgin Virgin Trains Virgin unveils its future cross-Channel train as it gears up to take on Eurostar Group plans to launch services from London in 2030 and hopes to outshine competitor with design inspiration from its airline, cruise and hotel arms
Prefer the Guardian on Google Flash interiors, fancy food and maybe even a bar: Virgin has unveiled a mock-up of its future cross-Channel train, with a pledge to create “something genuinely new”.
The group is planning to launch rail services from London to the continent in 2030, with Eurostar facing competition for the first time since the opening of the Channel tunnel.
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