Le Train, a private rail company competing with the state-owned SNCF, has stated that the discovery of cracks in future high-speed TGVs produced by the Spanish company Talgo will not alter its plans to operate these trains in western France. Alain Getraud, Le Train’s general director, explained that such issues are a normal part of the development and adaptation process for new rail equipment. In 2023, Le Train ordered 10 units of a high-speed train called Avril S106 from Talgo for 350 million euros. However, some similar units purchased by Renfe, Spain's national rail company, for 1.3 billion euros, have been found to have cracks in their bogies—critical components that support the train’s wheels and suspension. These cracks have caused several units to be taken out of service and have been reported multiple times over the past year. Getraud noted that the Avril S106 is the first high-speed train from Talgo to undergo French homologation, a formal approval process required for new rail equipment to operate in France. This process has taken longer than expected, with 70% of the required compliance points already met. The remaining 30% involve additional tests and document reviews. Getraud criticized the complexity of French regulatory requirements, which he said contribute to longer delays compared to neighboring countries. He pointed out that in France, it typically takes nearly seven years from the time a train is ordered until it is delivered, which is significantly longer than in other European nations. Renfe, which previously managed the homologation process, has reduced its involvement in France, causing further delays for Le Train. Getraud expressed disappointment with the complexity of French regulations, noting that both the Transport Regulation Authority and the Assembly have recognized this as a challenge. While Le Train has not confirmed whether Talgo has begun production of the Avril S106 units for them, the homologation process will continue. Le Train had initially aimed to launch the train commercially by 2026, then 2027, and finally 2028. However, Getraud now avoids setting a specific date, focusing instead on preparing for the continuation of the homologation process. The company’s planned 400 million euro funding round may depend on successfully obtaining the homologation. Getraud assured that the Avril S106 model has strong support from its shareholders, including entrepreneurs, French economic actors, major French banks, and regional development funds.