Will the SNCF have to wait a little longer to receive the first examples of the new TGV M? The question arose after Le Parisien reported on the “vibrations” observed during tests that the new high-speed train is undergoing on the national network.
Questioned by BFM Business, Alstom, which designed and manufactures the TGV M, assures that there is nothing worrying about this test cycle in which no less than one million kilometres will be covered before it enters commercial service.
“During these tests we always discover things that need to be corrected, that is the whole point of the test campaigns,” explains the industrialist. And, in fact, breakdowns are detected periodically, “it is a succession of problems and solutions,” explained Alain Krakovitch, director of TGV-Intercités, last April.
Alstom confirms that these “vibrations” appear in the driver’s cabin (and only in it) when the train exceeds 350 km/h.
A problem that has been “identified” and will be “resolved” quickly, we assure you, especially since it occurs “in extreme conditions”, beyond the commercial speed of the train which will be 320 km/h (on the SNCF).
“This does not change the calendar in any way”
But according to our information, it is Alstom that has chosen to certify this new generation TGV with a maximum commercial speed of 350 km/h so that other customers can travel at this speed. These tests are expected to be completed by the end of this year.
A relief for the SNCF, which is awaiting this train like the Messiah. As we know, delays in production and therefore in deliveries have accumulated: initially planned for the end of 2023, the first units will not arrive in the South-East before the second half of 2025.
A real thorn in the side of the SNCF, which relies heavily on these new trains (115 have been ordered for more than 3 billion euros) to respond to The demand for trains by the French is growing.
Especially since only four to five new trains will be delivered in 2025 to ensure connections with the South-East (Paris-Lyon-Marseille-Nice), the busiest and most profitable line. The increase will then take place very gradually: nine in 2026 and 12 in 2027 (i.e. the nominal number of annual deliveries).
Source: BFM TV
