A New Era for French Rail: Velvet Challenges the SNCF Monopoly
The landscape of French high-speed travel is set for a significant transformation. Velvet, a pioneering independent operator, has officially been granted an operating license by the French transport ministry, marking a historic shift in a market long dominated by the state-owned SNCF.
### Breaking the Status Quo
By securing this regulatory green light, Velvet is positioning itself as the primary challenger to the national incumbent. The startup’s strategic vision is centered on addressing the surging appetite for efficient transit along the Atlantic corridor. With the European rail market increasingly liberalized, Velvet’s entry is timely; recent data from the European Union Agency for Railways suggests that competition on high-speed lines can reduce ticket prices by up to 20% while significantly boosting passenger numbers.
### Connecting the Atlantic Corridor
Velvet’s operational roadmap is ambitious, with commercial services slated to commence in 2028. The company plans to inject an additional 10 million seats into the market, focusing on high-frequency, direct routes connecting Paris with key hubs including Bordeaux, Nantes, Rennes, and Angers. These journeys are designed to be rapid, with average travel times clocked at approximately two hours-a competitive alternative to short-haul domestic flights.
### Leadership and Financial Backing
The venture is spearheaded by industry heavyweights, including former SNCF executive Rachel Picard and Tim Jackson, the visionary behind Alpha Trains. Their expertise is bolstered by substantial financial support from Antin Infrastructure Partners, an investment firm specializing in large-scale infrastructure projects. This backing provides the necessary capital to navigate the high barriers to entry inherent in the rail sector.
### Fleet Innovation and Future Milestones
To compete effectively, Velvet has invested in cutting-edge technology. In September 2024, the company finalized an order for 12 “Avelia Horizon” double-decker trains from Alstom. These units are renowned for their energy efficiency and high passenger capacity.
The inaugural train was unveiled at Alstom’s La Rochelle facility earlier this spring, where production is currently in full swing. While the operating license is a major milestone, the company must still secure final safety certification from the national rail regulator before welcoming its first passengers. Rigorous testing on the French network is scheduled to begin in 2026, serving as the final hurdle before the company begins operations in France.
