Jakarta, ThedailyID — Eurostar has upgraded the specifications of its next-generation high-speed trains to operate in temperatures of up to 55 degrees Celsius, responding to increasingly frequent heatwaves across Europe.
The rail operator connects major cities including London, Paris, and Brussels. It had originally ordered up to 50 new trains designed to withstand temperatures of 45 degrees Celsius.
However, rising temperatures across Europe prompted the company to revise those requirements. As a result, Eurostar asked the manufacturer to strengthen the trains’ cooling systems.
A Eurostar spokesperson said the company now wants every new train to maintain full air-conditioning performance even when temperatures reach 55 degrees Celsius.
Meanwhile, the new fleet represents an investment of around €2 billion (approximately US$2.3 billion). The company views the investment as part of its strategy to keep services reliable during increasingly extreme weather.
Europe remains one of the fastest-warming regions due to climate change. Consequently, repeated heatwaves have disrupted transport networks and daily life across the continent in recent years.
Through the upgraded specifications, Eurostar aims to keep its future fleet operating safely and comfortably. At the same time, the company hopes to maintain reliable service for passengers despite increasingly challenging weather conditions.
