EIB Eyes Major Investment in French Regional Rail
The European Investment Bank (EIB) is currently considering a significant financing package for the modernization of regional rail services in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France. The proposed investment amounts to €500 million, contributing to a total eligible project cost exceeding €1 billion. This initiative is set to enhance the region's public transport infrastructure through the acquisition and renewal of crucial rolling stock.
Project Scope: New Trains and Infrastructure
The financing, if approved, will support a comprehensive upgrade of the regional rail fleet. Key components of the project include:
- The purchase of 10 new electric multiple units.
- The acquisition of 3 dual-mode electric/hydrogen multiple units, signaling a move towards greener technologies.
- The mid-life renewal of 169 units from the existing fleet of electric and dual-mode rolling stock.
- The construction of a new workshop, which will be integrated into the current depot located in Clermont-Ferrand.
This strategic investment aims to improve the quality and capacity of rail services, particularly around the major metropolitan areas of Lyon and Geneva.
Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes: A Hub for Regional Transport
The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region operates the second busiest regional rail network in France. The region has been actively pursuing a comprehensive fleet renewal strategy, projected to run until 2035, to address a 20% increase in passenger traffic between 2019 and 2022 and to further 'green' its TER services. As part of these efforts, the region announced the acquisition of 10 new Regio2N multiple units from manufacturer Alstom on March 3, 2025.
EIB's Commitment to Sustainable Mobility in France
This potential financing aligns with the EIB's broader commitment to sustainable transport and climate action within the European Union. In 2023, France was the leading recipient of EIB financing for the energy and green transition, receiving a total of €6.9 billion. Of this, €2.5 billion was specifically directed towards rail and urban public transport and sustainable mobility, making it the EIB's top investment sector in France for the year. The project is expected to contribute to the EU's objective of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030.
5 Comments
Bella Ciao
The EIB's commitment to sustainable mobility is clear, and hydrogen technology is exciting. But we must ensure this isn't just a PR move and that the long-term maintenance and operational costs of these advanced trains are sustainable too.
Mariposa
Hydrogen trains are a gimmick. Stick to proven tech, this is just throwing money away.
Donatello
While the investment in greener trains is commendable, I hope they also address the reliability issues that plague current services. New trains are great, but they need to run on time.
Muchacho
€1 billion for trains? That money could be better spent on roads or local services.
Raphael
Excellent news for sustainable transport! This investment is crucial for the region's future.