The introduction of a new high-speed train operator, Velvet, on the Paris-Bordeaux route in 2028 has sparked concern among 4,000 daily commuters from Touraine who rely on the state-run SNCF (Société Nationale des Chemins de Fer Français) for their travel to Paris. Velvet plans to operate high-speed trains on this route without making intermediate stops, a strategy designed to streamline operations and reduce financial losses. However, this approach has raised fears that it may limit the mobility options for Touraine residents, especially during peak travel times, when the existing railway network is already under significant pressure. The National Federation of Transport Users Associations has stated that the current SNCF services are not enough to meet the strong demand on this route. Saint-Pierre-des-Corps, a major station for residents of Touraine, is particularly affected, as it is close to full capacity during rush hours. The association warns that Velvet’s non-stop trains, which will use the same tracks but skip Touraine stations, could worsen the situation for SNCF services during these times. This could push SNCF Voyageurs to reduce its train offerings, especially in the morning, potentially leading to increased car use and harming the region’s residential and economic appeal. Velvet has secured its track usage from SNCF Réseau, but the exact schedule of its trains has not yet been announced. In the long run, Velvet aims to add 10 million more seats per year on its routes compared to what SNCF currently offers. However, SNCF Voyageurs has not officially commented on how Velvet’s operations might affect its own services. SNCF announced in late 2024 that it would significantly increase its capacity on the Atlantic coast by adding four million seats. However, more seats do not necessarily mean more trains. In the spring of 2027, SNCF plans to launch a new Ouigo Train service between Paris and Bordeaux with several intermediate stops, but the longer travel time of about five and a half hours is likely to attract few daily commuters who need to get to Paris quickly. A key issue is whether new operators like Velvet should be required to stop at all stations, including those that are not financially profitable. Unlike SNCF, which often serves these less profitable stations, Velvet is not obligated to do so. SNCF CEO Jean Castex has called for all operators to follow the same rules, arguing that stopping at all intermediate cities is necessary to maintain competitiveness. A government report this summer proposed non-binding measures to ensure service at these stations, but some advocates for competition believe the current framework is sufficient, especially with high tolls in France and the gradual expansion of services with more stops. What remains unclear is how these changes will truly affect regional development and the quality of service for travelers.