Italian transport giant FS Group has announced plans to launch a high-speed rail service between Paris and London by 2029, as a core project of its 2025-2029 strategic plan backed by €1 billion in investment.
FS Group stated that the new service will utilize Frecciarossa trains, focusing on energy efficiency, comfort, and service quality to provide an additional cross-Channel travel option. The group has signed a memorandum of understanding with Spanish mobility company Evolyn, which will support project implementation. Key developments include the UK's Office of Rail and Roads (ORR) confirming the capacity of the Temple Mills maintenance depot, crucial for operations through the Channel Tunnel; meanwhile, London's St Pancras International has introduced a new financial incentive scheme to encourage international train operations via the tunnel.
FS Group CEO Stefano Antonio Donnarumma noted that this investment represents a pivotal step in building an "integrated, competitive, and sustainable" European rail network, aligning with the group's strategic goals of expanding overseas passenger services and accelerating internationalization. He emphasized that high-speed rail networks are the backbone of efficient and eco-friendly travel. By establishing a presence in key corridors, the group is not only investing in infrastructure and innovation but also in Europe's transport future. Increased competition will drive the industry toward greater efficiency and customer focus, offering a genuine alternative to air travel.
FS Group has operated in France since 2021 and maintains a presence in the UK through partnerships with c2c and Avanti West Coast. The group has obtained operational permits in France and is currently assessing capacity needs at London's St Pancras station while exploring financing options to ensure the high-speed service's launch.
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