The emerging railway operator Proxima has revealed details about the Velvet train, which will operate alongside SNCF's TGV trains on the Paris - Bordeaux route. As a new entrant in the French railway market, in the short term, Proxima appears to be in an advantageous position to compete with SNCF Voyageurs' TGV services on the west coast. Currently, Alstom has started the production of the Velvet train.

Why the name "Velvet"? The founder explained, "This word symbolizes speed, softness, depth, elegance, and innovation, qualities that are unprecedented in the railway industry." Regarding the interior design of the train, it remains under wraps for now. This double - decker train, manufactured by Alstom, is built on the Avelia Horizon platform, which has also been used for SNCF Voyageurs' TGV M trains. However, considering that Alstom has experienced multiple production delays in numerous contracts, including those for the TGV M trains, it's doubtful whether Proxima can receive the Velvet trains on time in 2028. Initially, Proxima hoped to receive the first batch of trains in 2027 and start commercial operations in the same year.

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