Eurostar has previewed its new e320 train on the London-Brussels route before its formal introduction into service on 28 May.
The introduction of these new trains is part of a £1bn investment programme in Eurostar’s fleet, stations and services, which included the purchase of 17 new e320 trains and the refurbishment of existing units.
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Eurostar chief executive Nicolas Petrovic said: “The introduction of the e320 on the Brussels route marks an important milestone and step change in the travel experience for our customers.
“With demand for high-speed rail over plane on the increase, we are now gearing up to expand our reach to the Amsterdam and Rotterdam.
"The launch of our new direct service on this high volume route represents a major growth opportunity for our business.”
The e320 trains have been operating successfully on the London-Paris route since November 2015.
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By GlobalDataItalian company Pininfarina designed the new locomotives, which feature a 20% greater capacity than the original Eurostar trains.
The new models also contain chic interiors with Wi-Fi connectivity and 300 hours of on-board entertainment.
Eurostar has also completed a comprehensive refurbishment of its terminal in Brussels Midi in order to create an expanded departure area, while increasing check-in efficiency.
The terminal is expected to introduce facial recognition e-passport gate technology during the peak summer holiday period.
Eurostar is currently in the final stages of preparation for the launch of a new direct service to Amsterdam and Rotterdam.
The company plans to complete the introduction of its 17 new e320 trains and the renovation of its original fleet over the next 18 months.
