Spain’s iconic high-speed rail community is about to enter main gear, with the federal government confirming plans to extend most AVE speeds to 350 km/hthus interrupting the journey between them Madrid and Barcelona to lower than two hours for the primary time. Minister of Transport Oscar Puente introduced the initiative earlier this week, calling it a decisive step in the direction of positioning Spain among the many quickest rail corridors on this planet.
The 621 kilometer lengthy connection at present runs between Spain’s two largest cities 2.5 to three hoursas trains are restricted to speeds of approx 310 km/h on chosen segments. The improve is anticipated to extend prime speeds by approx 12%—might be made attainable by enhancements to rail infrastructure, together with the set up of new aerodynamic observe helps designed to scale back wind resistance by greater than 20%.
“We’re occurring the offensive with the high-speed prepare,” Puente advised Europa Press. “Our objective is 350 km/h, and we might be there second nation on this planetafter China, to achieve this velocity.”
Officers insist the enhancements will not endanger securityas a substitute counting on superior engineering to optimize airflow and stability. The improve goals to strengthen Spain’s place as a world chief in environment friendly, sustainable rail transport, particularly as demand will increase between Madrid, Barcelona and the coastal areas.
Along with velocity enhancements, Puente confirmed plans for a new AVE station in Parlaabout 20 km south of Madrid. The cease streamlines journey between Andalusia and Cataloniawhich means commuters now not should switch through the capital’s busy junctions.
The announcement comes amid renewed scrutiny of Spain’s rail community following a latest incident in Madrid that left passengers stranded on an overheated AVE prepare. The federal government hopes the brand new improve will assist rebuild confidence whereas delivering certainly one of Europe’s quickest rail experiences.