New train service planned between Amsterdam and Paris

Heurotrain, a Dutch company, has announced plans to operate high-speed trains every hour between Amsterdam and Paris via Brussels. The proposed service aims to connect three major European capitals and compete with existing rail providers on the route.

Existing competitors on the route

Eurostar, which is partly owned by the French national rail company SNCF Voyageurs, already faces competition from companies like Virgin, Trenitalia, and Gemini on routes to London. Now, it must also contend with new players on the route between the Netherlands and France.

Previous success and new entrants

The success of Ouigo’s conventional trains between Paris and Brussels and the upcoming night service from GoVolta between Amsterdam and Paris have set the stage for more competition. Heurotrain aims to enter this market with a high-speed option that offers affordable fares and availability.

Framework agreement with SNCF Réseau

Heurotrain has signed a 10-year framework agreement with SNCF Réseau, allowing it to reserve train slots between Paris and the Belgian border starting in December 2030. This corridor is highly congested, making the agreement a crucial step for the company.

Ambitions for frequency and accessibility

The company plans to offer up to 16 round trips per day, averaging one train every hour, surpassing Eurostar’s current ten daily round trips between Amsterdam and Paris. It also promises last-minute seat availability, moderate pricing, and high-speed Wi-Fi on board.

Funding challenges ahead

Despite securing 125 million euros in seed funding, Heurotrain will need at least 500 million euros to purchase trains. Delays in train deliveries and the need for additional financing from banks and the public are expected to prolong the time before the service launches.