European rail service expands: Flixtrain unveils forthcoming connections across Europe - Orders 65 trains for extended network - European rail service expansions announced - 65 trains procured by Flixtrain
FlixTrain Announces Expansion into European Train Market with 65 High-Speed Trains
German mobility service provider, FlixTrain, has announced a substantial order of 65 high-speed trains from Spanish manufacturer Talgo and German giant Siemens. The move marks a significant step towards expanding the company's rail operations beyond its home market in Germany and into other European countries.
André Schwämmlein, CEO of FlixTrain, highlighted the European focus of the initiative, stating, "FlixTrain is seen as a European product." He underscored the company's intent to make the new high-speed service available in multiple countries across the continent. The Talgo trains are designed for usage in various European nations, facilitating cross-border travel.
The contract with the manufacturers totals up to €2.4 billion, with €1 billion already firmly committed, according to FlixTrain's announcement. These trains are expected to reach speeds of up to 230 kilometers per hour and boast features like barrier-free access, cutting-edge Wi-Fi solutions, and many other comfort-enhancing features. The locomotives will be supplied by Siemens.
Federal Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder (CDU) endorsed the investment, viewing it as a "strong signal for the rail market." FlixTrain will finance the acquisition through a combination of equity and loans. The company, which previously relied on partners for ownership and operation of its buses and trains, now sees itself as a technology platform.
Financial investor EQT and the holding company of logistics billionaire Klaus-Michael Kühn have backed FlixTrain for this investment, each owning a 35% stake since July last year.
While specific countries for the planned expansion have not been disclosed, FlixTrain aims to extend affordable, sustainable high-speed rail connections across Europe, leveraging the new fleet to tap into both German and pan-European market demand. The company sees enormous potential in the European market.
- FlixTrain's expansion into multiple European countries will include the implementation of vocational training programs for their employees, aiming to foster a sense of community among team members working across different industries.
- To finance the acquisition of the 65 high-speed trains, FlixTrain will invest in various areas of the business, including finance and automotive sectors, with financial investor EQT and logistics billionaire Klaus-Michael Kühn's holding company contributing significantly.
- As FlixTrain extends its operations into more European countries, it plans to collaborate with local vocational training institutions to provide comprehensive training for employees in the transportation sector, ensuring a high standard of service for their passengers.
