The Future of French Rail: Inside the New TGV INOUI 2025 Trains

At a recent meeting organised by A Tout France, I had the opportunity to find out more about the revolutionary new generation of TGV trains – a €3.5 billion investment by SNCF.

The new ‘TGV INOUI 2025’ trains by SNCF have been designed around three priorities: comfort, sustainability, and inclusivity. In their words, “This isn’t just a redesign—it’s a reimagining of the entire passenger experience”.

What is SNCF doing?

SNCF has ordered 115 new trainsets from Alstom, set to enter service in 2025. These 5th-generation TGVs represent the most advanced and versatile fleet the company has ever launched.

Key innovations include:

• Completely redesigned interiors by French-Japanese design firms AREP and Nendo
• Modular seating that can switch between first- and second-class layouts
• Iconic lighting and improved ambiance
• Enhanced connectivity and predictive maintenance tech
• Eco-friendly construction using 97% recyclable materials

Why are they doing it?

SNCF’s mission is to build a train for the future that better meets passenger needs while respecting the planet. The new interiors are minimalist, poetic, and practical, ticking most boxes in terms of the design, which features:

• More comfort – Softer seating and more legroom
• More seats – Capacity of up to 740 passengers per train
• Higher sustainability – 37% lower CO₂ emissions per seat
• More accessibility – Designed in collaboration with mobility-impaired passengers
• Greater efficiency – Lower costs of acquisition and maintenance
• Improved First-Class Seats – wider seats with silent electric recline
• Individual USB/power outlets and personal reading lights
• Adjustable headrests and increased knee room
• “Hammock-effect” knit seating for body-conforming comfort

Always Connected

In my experience, Wi-Fi on TGV trains is always very good, but the TGV INOUI 2025’ carriages will be the first 100% connected TGVs, with stronger and more reliable Wi-Fi

More sustainable

The new carriages will be built with lightweight magnesium frames, able to carry up to 20% more passengers with no comfort compromise and at the same time, use 50% less energy per seat than older single-level trains.

When will the TGV INOUI 2025 be in service?

The rollout begins in 2025, starting with the Paris–Lyon–Marseille line. All 115 trainsets will be deployed over the next 10 years, including 15 for international routes.

Whether you’re commuting, exploring, or traveling for business, this new TGV promises to transform your journey—making it smoother, quieter, and more comfortable than ever.

Key Stats at a Glance