Renfe has ordered 30 new high-speed trains as it prepares to replace ageing vehicles, including the pioneering fleet introduced when the Madrid–Sevilla AVE opened in 1992.
The operator has awarded Siemens a €1.218billion contract for 30 Velaro Novo high-speed trains, with an option for 10 more.
The new trains are expected to serve Andalucia routes, although their arrival does not yet confirm additional departures or shorter journey times.
The first five units are due within 40 months of the award, putting initial deliveries in early 2030. Passenger services will depend on testing and authorisation.
Each train will carry 520 passengers across seven single-deck carriages, with a design that frees up space normally occupied by technical equipment.
There will be 404 standard-class seats in a two-by-two layout and 116 Preferente seats arranged two on one side of the aisle and one on the other.
Seats will be able to rotate to face the direction of travel, while every passenger will have access to a power socket and USB connection.
Larger multipurpose areas will accommodate luggage, bicycles and passengers with reduced mobility.
The trains will also be equipped for higher-capacity wifi and upgraded passenger information and entertainment systems.
Siemens’ design aims to reduce noise and vibration, alongside the sudden pressure changes passengers can experience in tunnels or when trains pass at speed.
Another feature, known as ‘Last Mile’, will use batteries to power the traction system in certain emergency situations.
This could allow a train to move when it would otherwise need assistance, reducing reliance on rescue locomotives. It does not mean services could continue indefinitely without an external power supply.
Remote diagnostics and predictive maintenance are intended to identify technical problems earlier and reduce disruption.
The trains will be designed for speeds of up to 350km/hr, but operating speeds will depend on the infrastructure and conditions of each route.
The complete 30-train order is scheduled for delivery within 62 months of the award. That points to late 2031 or early 2032, rather than guaranteeing the entire fleet will be carrying passengers by then.
Renfe says the purchase will expand capacity and strengthen its position against competitors including Iryo and Ouigo.
Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.
