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In pictures: the future trains of the RER B revealed!

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The Editor

© ALSTOM SA 2026 / Samuel Dhote

Parisians may regularly complain about the RER, but it still provides us with many services. The only downside is that its trains, often a bit worn and dirty, aren't very inviting. Luckily, a new fleet is arriving very soon on line B!

Even though the Paris public transport system is undoubtedly useful, let’s be honest, depending on the lines taken, not all travelers have the same experience. For instance, we could mention line 13, line 7bis, or even the RER as a whole. Fortunately, in its ongoing effort to improve service, the RATP has decided to replace a number of trains with more modern ones, and this also includes the RER B!


The Ultimate RER Upgrade

A little turning point happened in the suburban train world last Thursday. Indeed, on May 7, the first train of the future MI20 trains (which stands for “interconnection material ordered in 2020”) made its debut.

his first test ride before an amazed audience to unveil all the secrets it holds. But what should passengers expect from these future train cars ?

First off, there's the comfort, since these double-decker trains will have no separation between the cars, offering 35% more space and 20% more seating (much more ergonomic, of course)! The interior, much better laid out, will be brighter and also more accessible for people with reduced mobility (PRM). To ensure comfort all year round, they will also be equipped with air conditioning and heated floors. On top of that, passengers will have access to power outlets, and it seems that RATP has learned its lesson, as they will indeed feature USB-C outlets!


A launch we’re eagerly waiting for

While the first presentation gives us a glimpse of something truly wonderful, unfortunately, we prefer to temper your excitement.

Right away, these fabulous future trains won’t be in service right away. Indeed, the first tests in real conditions on the line won’t take place before autumn 2027, and the first trains are only expected to be in service by the end of 2028, or even early 2029, which is no less than 3 years away. The complete set of 146 ordered trains won’t be entirely in place and functional until 2032, at best! Even worse, a number of works and interruptions are to be expected in the meantime to prepare everything as best as possible, and that should start as soon as this summer! In the meantime, we console ourselves by polishing the new metro trains…