SNCF Voyageurs and Alstom unveil the interior fittings of the future TGV INOUI
12/03/2025
The TGV M, the fifth generation of France’s iconic high-speed train, is set to redefine rail travel with its design and commitment to sustainability.
Developed through an unprecedented innovation partnership between Alstom and SNCF Voyageurs, the project has been supported by the French government via ADEME (Agence de l’Environnement Et de la Maîtrise de l’Énergie) and SGPI (Secrétariat Général Pour l’Investissement) since its inception in 2016.
A collaborative effort of unmatched expertise
The TGV M project brought together over 2,000 experts from Alstom and SNCF Voyageurs, working in a shared collaborative workspace. This innovative approach allowed the teams to design a train that is greener, smarter, and offers greater passenger capacity. Drawing on the experience of four previous TGV generations, the fifth iteration has been designed from scratch, pushing the boundaries of what high-speed rail can achieve.
Unmatched modularity and efficiency
True to its name, the TGV M emphasises modularity, modernity, and control. The train’s unique modular design allows the number of carriages to be adjusted based on demand, and carriages can easily be converted between first and second class. Adjustable spaces for luggage and bicycles ensure the train can adapt to seasonal and market needs.
The TGV M will feature nine passenger carriages, one more than its predecessors, increasing seating capacity by 20%. In a standard two-class configuration with a bar, the train will accommodate up to 600 passengers, with a maximum capacity of 740 seats. This increased capacity is made possible by a simplified electrical architecture and the use of two compact mini-motors.
Commitment to sustainability
At equivalent performance levels, the TGV M will be 20% more energy-efficient, thanks to its aerodynamic design. It will deliver a 50% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to single-deck high-speed trains. Made from 25% recycled materials and 97% recyclable itself, the TGV M boasts the lowest carbon footprint of any high-speed train on the market. Additionally, the train’s production supports 4,000 jobs across 11 of Alstom’s 16 French sites.
Striking exterior design
The TGV M’s exterior design reflects its advanced engineering. Its sleek, aerodynamic nose, marked by a distinctive black ellipse, enhances air penetration and reduces energy consumption. Durable, reflective paint minimises heat absorption, lowering cooling requirements. The restrained livery, highlighted by the Frenchberry red boarding gates of TGV INOUI, adds a touch of elegance.
Passenger-centric interior innovation
For the first time in TGV history, the entire crew has played a role in designing the train’s interior. Drivers helped shape the cab layout using virtual reality, resulting in improved lighting, soundproofing, and a backup air conditioning system.
Accessibility has also been a key focus. The TGV M features expanded spaces for wheelchair users, an at-seat catering service, reorganized accessible toilets, and innovative aids like a Door Locator System for visually impaired passengers. Raised seat numbering and intuitive signage further enhance accessibility.
A vision for the future
The TGV M sets a new benchmark in high-speed rail, combining increased capacity, reduced environmental impact, and passenger-centric design. As France continues to lead the charge in rail innovation, the TGV M exemplifies the future of sustainable, efficient, and inclusive transportation.
A collaborative effort of unmatched expertise
The TGV M project brought together over 2,000 experts from Alstom and SNCF Voyageurs, working in a shared collaborative workspace. This innovative approach allowed the teams to design a train that is greener, smarter, and offers greater passenger capacity. Drawing on the experience of four previous TGV generations, the fifth iteration has been designed from scratch, pushing the boundaries of what high-speed rail can achieve.
Unmatched modularity and efficiency
True to its name, the TGV M emphasises modularity, modernity, and control. The train’s unique modular design allows the number of carriages to be adjusted based on demand, and carriages can easily be converted between first and second class. Adjustable spaces for luggage and bicycles ensure the train can adapt to seasonal and market needs.
The TGV M will feature nine passenger carriages, one more than its predecessors, increasing seating capacity by 20%. In a standard two-class configuration with a bar, the train will accommodate up to 600 passengers, with a maximum capacity of 740 seats. This increased capacity is made possible by a simplified electrical architecture and the use of two compact mini-motors.
Commitment to sustainability
At equivalent performance levels, the TGV M will be 20% more energy-efficient, thanks to its aerodynamic design. It will deliver a 50% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to single-deck high-speed trains. Made from 25% recycled materials and 97% recyclable itself, the TGV M boasts the lowest carbon footprint of any high-speed train on the market. Additionally, the train’s production supports 4,000 jobs across 11 of Alstom’s 16 French sites.
Striking exterior design
The TGV M’s exterior design reflects its advanced engineering. Its sleek, aerodynamic nose, marked by a distinctive black ellipse, enhances air penetration and reduces energy consumption. Durable, reflective paint minimises heat absorption, lowering cooling requirements. The restrained livery, highlighted by the Frenchberry red boarding gates of TGV INOUI, adds a touch of elegance.
Passenger-centric interior innovation
For the first time in TGV history, the entire crew has played a role in designing the train’s interior. Drivers helped shape the cab layout using virtual reality, resulting in improved lighting, soundproofing, and a backup air conditioning system.
Accessibility has also been a key focus. The TGV M features expanded spaces for wheelchair users, an at-seat catering service, reorganized accessible toilets, and innovative aids like a Door Locator System for visually impaired passengers. Raised seat numbering and intuitive signage further enhance accessibility.
A vision for the future
The TGV M sets a new benchmark in high-speed rail, combining increased capacity, reduced environmental impact, and passenger-centric design. As France continues to lead the charge in rail innovation, the TGV M exemplifies the future of sustainable, efficient, and inclusive transportation.