In the absence of new trains delivered on time, SNCF is extending the lifespan of its older trainsets. Around one hundred TGVs over thirty years old will be completely refurbished to allow them to operate for up to fifteen more years.
The first refurbished train returned to service on Monday, February 23. For passengers, there was no apparent difference. Seats, carpets, lighting—everything looked brand new. Yet, the train had nearly 14 million kilometers on the odometer and had first entered service in 1990.
An industrial construction site at the Landy technical center
These trainsets are completely refurbished at the Landy maintenance depot in Seine-Saint-Denis. The carriages are repainted, the chassis treated against corrosion, and worn parts replaced. Carpets are changed, damaged seats replaced, tray tables refurbished, and power outlets repaired. The lighting is modernized with more energy-efficient and longer-lasting LEDs.
The still-functional parts are cleaned and refurbished. Others come from TGVs withdrawn from service. The goal is to restore trains designed more than three decades ago to a near-new condition. This program represents an investment of €2,5 million per trainset. A significant sum, but nothing compared to the cost of a new TGV, estimated at around €35 million.
An economic and strategic choice
In total, 104 trainsets are to be extended. SNCF highlights its rare industrial expertise, capable of extending the service life of some trains up to 50 years. Such longevity is uncommon in the global rail sector.
This strategy also addresses practical constraints. The new generation of high-speed trains (TGVs), initially expected in 2023, are experiencing delivery delays and are only expected to enter service gradually starting this summer. In the meantime, refurbishment allows rail services to be maintained without interruption, while limiting immediate capital expenditures. Following smartphones and household appliances, refurbished goods are now making their way to the railways. This is a pragmatic solution for extending the lifespan of existing equipment and smoothing out industrial delays, without passengers even noticing.
