SNCF TGV Atlantique
| Industry | Rail transport |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1988 |
| Founder | Alstom |
| Headquarters | France |
| Products | High-speed trains |
SNCF TGV Atlantique
The TGV Atlantique (TGV-A) represents a class of high-speed trains operated by SNCF in France. Constructed by Alstom between 1988 and 1992, it serves as the second generation following the TGV Sud-Est series. These trainsets derive their name from the Ligne à Grande Vitesse Atlantique, the dedicated high-speed route for which they were specifically engineered.
A fleet of 105 dual-voltage trainsets, numbered 301 to 405, was manufactured and introduced into service beginning in 1989. Each unit spans 237.5 meters in length and measures 2.904 meters in width, with a total weight of 444 tonnes. The configuration consists of two motorized power cars flanking ten passenger coaches, initially providing seating capacity for 485 travelers. Designed to reach speeds up to , these trains operate under a 25 kV electrification system delivering .
By 2015, a significant number of these trainsets were withdrawn from active duty, leaving only 28 operational as of 2022. The majority of those still in use have been modernized and now predominantly cover slower services connecting Paris with Bordeaux, utilizing segments of the LGV Atlantique and LGV Sud Europe Atlantique. Faster services along these lines have been largely taken over by the higher-capacity TGV "Océane" models.
A noteworthy achievement of this class includes the modified trainset number 325, which established the TGV world speed record in 1990 on the LGV prior to its official inauguration. This record-breaking unit featured enhancements such as refined aerodynamic design, larger wheel diameters increased from 920 mm to 1090 mm, upgraded braking systems, and an adjusted gear ratio changing from roughly 1:2.1894 to 1:2.012. To improve its power-to-weight ratio, the train was shortened to two power cars and three passenger cars, with a reduced weight of . This speed record remained unbroken until April 2007 when a TGV POS on the LGV Est achieved .
Fleet details
| Class | Number in service | Year built | Operator | Original units | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Series 24000 | 28 | 1988 – 1992 | SNCF | 301-405 | Dual-voltage capability |
See also
- List of high speed trains
- AVE Class 100, Spain’s high-speed train model derived from the TGV Atlantique platform
Further reading
- Jean Pierre Du Bois, SNCF receives first Atlantique TGV train set, RAIL, June 1988, issue 81, p.9
- Brian Perren, TGV Atlantique, RAIL, September–October 1989, issue 105, pp.35–42
- Brian Perren, 300 mph! Preparing for the 21st century, RAIL, February 1990, issue 115, pp.40–43