Eurostar is planning to introduce a new generation of double-decker trains, set to debut in 2031, as it prepares to face growing competition on the high-speed rail route between the UK and mainland Europe. The company will invest approximately €2 billion in 50 new Celestia trains, which will be the first double-decker models to operate on the cross-Channel track. These trains will offer more space and comfort, with a unique two-storey on-board bar described as “as exciting as a speakeasy bar.” The bar will have different atmospheres on each level, open to all passengers, and will be staffed similarly to the cocktail bars in Eurostar’s Premier lounges. Eurostar’s CEO, Gwendoline Cazenave, emphasized that the new trains will provide an exceptional travel experience with “new surprises” yet to be revealed. The trains will also be equipped with advanced air conditioning systems that can function in temperatures as high as 55 degrees Celsius. This feature is especially important as global temperatures rise and heatwaves become more frequent. The new Celestia trains are expected to carry about 20% more passengers than Eurostar’s current fleet, potentially increasing annual passenger numbers from around 20 million to 30 million. This would allow over 1,000 additional passengers per train, significantly boosting capacity on the route. Eurostar is not the only player aiming to capture the cross-Channel market. Richard Branson’s Virgin Trains is planning to launch services by 2030, having received approval from the Office of Rail and Road for access to the HS1 route. However, Virgin still needs to secure access to the Channel Tunnel and rail networks in mainland Europe. The company also mentioned the possibility of stopping at Kent stations, which Eurostar suspended in 2020. In addition, Italy’s state-backed Trenitalia France, part of the FS Group, aims to launch London-Paris services by 2029, offering on-board bistro services, WiFi, and enhanced comfort. Meanwhile, British start-up Gemini Trains plans to introduce services from Stratford International to Paris, Lille, and Brussels by 2029, with potential future expansion to Cologne and Eastern Europe. To keep up with the growing demand, Eurostar is also upgrading its departure facilities at St Pancras, aiming to double its processing capacity to handle 5,000 passengers per hour by 2028.