The European Investment Bank (EIB) is considering a project to purchase rolling stock for regional rail services in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France. The bank is proposing EUR 500 million of the total eligible cost of over EUR 1 billion.
The financing will support the purchase of 10 electric multiple units, 3 dual-mode electric/hydrogen multiple units, and the mid-life renewal of part of the existing fleet of electric and dual-mode rolling stock used for regional passenger services in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France (169 units). The project also includes the construction of a new workshop, integrated into the existing depot in Clermont-Ferrand.
On March 3, 2025, the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region announced the acquisition of 10 new Regio2N multiple units, manufactured by Alstom, which will offer residents sustainable, accessible, and efficient mobility.
To expand its transport offering, the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region has asked SNCF Voyageurs to order 10 new Regio2N multiple units for the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes TER network. In April, Alstom announced SNCF Voyageurs’ order for ten Omneo Regio2N double-decker trains for the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, worth 125 million EUR. These trains will complement the region’s existing fleet, which already includes 59 Omneo Regio2N multiple units. Delivery of the 10 new trains is scheduled between June and October 2027.
The new multiple units will increase transport capacity, mainly in the Lyon rail hub, and will be accompanied by the redistribution of rolling stock to other areas of the region.
The new and modernized rolling stock, together with the associated facilities, will contribute to improving the quality and expanding the range of regional rail services in the region. The project will enable more efficient operation, reduced maintenance costs, lower energy consumption, and increased passenger comfort. At the same time, the initiative will facilitate access to rolling stock for different rail operators, thus supporting the liberalization of rail services. In addition, the project will promote sustainable transport and encourage the shift of traffic from road to rail, contributing to the reduction of CO₂ emissions and pollution levels. Increasing the share of rail transport will also have a positive impact on transport safety.
Share on:
