The TGV INOUI, operated by SNCF, is set to launch in 2026 with a new fleet of trains featuring stylish interiors. These fifth-generation trains, produced by Alstom, will initially run on the Paris-Lyon-Marseille route before expanding across the network. The redesign includes a two-storey bar, extra legroom, improved access for disabled passengers, and better WiFi. The new trains will have an additional carriage, increasing capacity by up to 20% and offering a maximum of 740 passengers per train. Improved accessibility for disabled passengers includes a dedicated coach with wheelchair-friendly facilities and better connectivity for those with 5G-compatible devices. The new TGV trains are also 20% more energy-efficient and made from 25% recycled materials, making them the high-speed train with the lowest carbon footprint on the market.
The interiors of the new TGV trains were designed by a collaboration between French agency AREP and Japanese agency Nendo, with a focus on the concept of “flow.” The design features an impression of the surface of water with a strong horizon line running through the elements. Standard class seats now include individual plug sockets, additional legroom, and mini tables, while first-class seats are 5cm wider with wrap-around headrests and electric seat recline. The seats draw inspiration from the soft shapes of pebbles and objects polished by water. The new fleet is made from 25% recycled materials and is 97% recyclable, further reducing its carbon footprint. The aerodynamic design of the trains will result in a 50% CO2 savings compared to single-deck high-speed trains, making them a more environmentally friendly option for passengers looking to reduce their emissions.
The most exciting development on the new TGV trains is the redesign of the bar carriage, named Le Bistro. The lower floor features self-service fridges, coffee machines, and microwaves with payment via self-service terminals, while the upper floor provides a ‘convivial’ space for sit-down dining with seats for up to 28 passengers. The menu will offer typical French bistro dishes, with 65% of suppliers being French and 100% of the meat sourced from France. There will be three different seasonal menus throughout the year, each featuring a ‘dish of the month’. The two-storey bar will provide a more enjoyable dining experience for passengers during their journey on the TGV INOUI trains.
Overall, the new TGV INOUI trains offer a sleek and modern design with improved amenities for passengers. The increased capacity, better accessibility for disabled travelers, and upgraded WiFi connectivity make the trains a more comfortable and enjoyable travel experience. The environmentally friendly features, such as the use of recycled materials and energy-efficient design, further enhance the appeal of the new fleet. The collaboration between French and Japanese designers has resulted in a unique and visually striking interior that sets these trains apart from previous models. The redesigned bar carriage, Le Bistro, offers a new dining experience for passengers with a focus on French cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere for socializing during the journey.
With the launch of the TGV INOUI in 2026, passengers in France can look forward to a more sustainable, comfortable, and enjoyable high-speed train travel experience. The introduction of the new fleet of trains represents a significant advancement in rail transportation, providing modern amenities and a stylish design for travelers. The emphasis on accessibility for disabled passengers, improved connectivity, and eco-friendly features make the TGV INOUI a standout option for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint while enjoying a luxurious journey. The collaboration between designers from different cultures has resulted in a unique and visually appealing interior that enhances the overall travel experience for passengers. The two-storey bar carriage, Le Bistro, offers a new and exciting dining option for passengers looking to enjoy French cuisine while traveling in style on the TGV INOUI trains.
