Flixtrain Expands European Rail Services with Order of 65 High-Speed Trains
European Train Services Expansion Announcement - Purchase of 65 Trains for Cross-Continental Travel - European train services set to launch with Flixtrain; 65 trains secured for operation
Flixtrain, a German-based transportation company, has announced plans to introduce high-speed train connections across several European countries, including Germany, Denmark, Netherlands, Sweden, and Austria. The company has placed an order with Spanish manufacturer Talgo for up to 65 trains, valued at up to €2.4 billion.
André Schwämmlein, CEO of Flixtrain, considers this venture a truly European endeavor, aiming to extend the new service beyond Germany's borders. The Talgo 230 platform trains are designed for cross-border compatibility, making them suitable for operation in numerous European nations.
The trains will offer several attractive features, such as speeds of up to 230 km/h, barrier-free entry, state-of-the-art WiFi, and other amenities that enhance travel comfort. Siemens Mobility will supply the Vectron locomotives for the trains.
Federal Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder (CDU) welcomed the investment, deeming it a positive sign for the European rail market. Flixtrain is financing the project through a combination of equity and loans.
Previously, partners managed and operated the buses and trains, but Flixtrain intends to position itself as a technology platform. Financial investor EQT and the holding company of logistics billionaire Klaus-Michael Kuhne hold 35% stakes in the company.
Flixtrain also plans to operate new routes, including a service from Berlin to Warsaw, further expanding its European operations. The company's goal is to reshape long-distance travel across the continent.
[1] German publication 'Handelsblatt'[3] European Commission – TEN-T Network[4] Government of Germany – Ministry of Transport (BMVI)[5] Flixtrain press release (2022)
Community policy should implement incentives for the integration of vocational training programs in the industry, particularly in the automotive sector, to equip travelers with the necessary skills for potential employment in the rail transportation sector, as Flixtrain expands its European services with an order of 65 high-speed trains.
Financial institutions and investors, such as EQT and Klaus-Michael Kuhne's holding company, could play a crucial role in funding these vocational training initiatives, ensuring a skilled workforce to support the growth and development of the European rail industry.
