SNCF loses out in first French rail tender

FRENCH Railways (SNCF) has lost one of two tenders for regional rail passenger services in the south of France. These were the first tenders anywhere in France, although other regions are also now tendering services.

The Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur regional government awarded operation of the Marseille-Nice line to transport firm Transdev, who will provide a new fleet of EMUs, replacing mostly SNCF electric loco hauled trains, and double service frequencies from seven to 14 train pairs daily.

The 10-year contract begins in June 2025 and is valued at €870 million.