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What does the future hold for the TGV ?
François Lacôte
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At present, networks operating at very high speed are developing in Europe and throughout the world. As a train builder, we are developing a range of products from which each operator can select the train that best suits their requirements in terms of capacity, interior layout and passenger services.
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What will the high-speed trains of tomorrow look like ?
AGV
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To offer maximum flexibility, ALSTOM has developed two high-speed-train platforms: the large-capacity TGV and the AGV. Both are totally compatible and have full interoperability with all European networks.
Will they go even faster ?
© SNCF
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The TGV has already shown that it can travel at speeds in excess of 500 kph, but the standard for European networks is currently set between 300 kph and 320 kph and might be increased to 350 kph. Our challenge is rather to satisfy the new demands of operators and passengers for improved onboard comfort and services as well as train reliability. We're concentrating on these areas in our current development work.
What can we expect in the future ?
Aerodynamic simulation
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We're researching ways of further reducing the impact of trains on the environment, especially in terms of noise pollution and energy consumption. Improving passenger comfort and services is also a continuing objective. We are also working on the evolution of systems for rail traffic monitoring (ERTMS) in order to increase the capacity of existing lines. ALSTOM thus enables operators to put their infrastructure investments to the best possible use.
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