Baptized TGV-S, which stands for “Supersonic High-Speed Train”, this exciting new project aims to drastically reduce travel times between major French cities. Bordeaux is among the first cities included, with a direct connection to Paris in less than an hour.
Unprecedented Speed for French Rail
The new supersonic train is expected to reach a speed of 1,000 km/h, which is more than twice as fast as the current high-speed trains. This technology, inspired by the Hyperloop and magnetic levitation trains, will allow travel from Paris to Bordeaux in just 45 minutes, compared to about 2 hours currently.
According to initial information, the trains would operate on a new dedicated infrastructure, ensuring faster and smoother journeys.
This project marks a new era for rail transport in France », states SNCF in a press release.
Bordeaux and Paris, the first French cities served
The Paris–Bordeaux connection would be one of the first lines put into service, followed by Paris–Lyon and Paris–Marseille. In Bordeaux, the future line will depart from the Saint-Jean station, with 2 daily departures at 8 AM and 6 PM scheduled from the opening. According to estimates, over 20 million travelers a year could use this new connection.
Construction starts in October 2026
The schedule plans to kick off construction in the fall of 2026, with a gradual service rollout starting from 2028. The total cost of the project is estimated to be nearly 12 billion euros, funded by the State, the European Union, and several private partners.
« We want to bring the major French metropolitan areas closer together while reducing the carbon footprint of transportation », specifies the Ministry of Transport.