Europe's leading railway group receives order for 12 high-speed trains

French rail group Alstom has received an order for 12 high-speed trains from start-up Proxima in a deal worth nearly 850 million euros ($933 million). Proxima is ordering Avelia Horizon high-speed trains, with deliveries expected to begin in 2028.

Alstom says the Avelia Horizon is the latest generation of double-decker trains capable of travelling at speeds in excess of 300 km/h. The Avelia Horizon combines high performance with compactness. It offers operational flexibility and guarantees a high level of safety and an enjoyable passenger experience. With the largest passenger capacity on the market, the Avelia Horizon offers a wide range of services and offers ideal passenger comfort.

The agreement between Alstom and Proxima also includes maintenance of the Atlantic coastal railway lines for 15 years. Proxima is also working to provide rail transport services connecting the French cities of Rennes, Nantes, Angers and Bordeaux with the French capital Paris. Alstom has 40 years of experience in commercial high-speed trains. Meanwhile, Proxima is a private company founded in June 2024 by Timothy Jackson and Rachel Picard. Jackson is also the founder of rolling stock leasing company Alpha Trains, while Rachel Picard was previously CEO of rail service company Voyages SNCF.

Proxima has received support from several French and international banks, and has received financing from Antin Infrastructure Partners, a private company specializing in infrastructure investments.