€10bn rail spend for 2010
SPAIN: Investment in new rolling stock as well as the infrastructure of the national network is set to total €10·2bn next year, according to the Ministry of Development's draft budget.
Appearing before a parliamentary committee on October 6, Secretary of State for Transport Concepción Gutiérrez said the ministry was planning to spend a record total of €20bn in 2010 with the twin aims of providing an economic stimulus and promoting sustainable development.
Investment in rail infrastructure totals €8·9m, with 71% earmarked for the high speed network which is due to grow by 513 km in 2010. Routes from Madrid to north and northwestern Spain, including the Basque Y, are to receive €2·15bn, while €1·8bn has been allocated to the route to Valencia, Alicante and Murcia . 2010 should see the opening of the Madrid - Cuenca - Valencia route, which according to Development Minister José Blanco will reduce CO2 emissions by 80 000 tonnes a year.
RENFE's €1·3bn rolling stock investment programme for 2010 makes provision for equipping the new route, as well as bringing into service 115 trainsets for suburban and medium-distance services. Under a programme to acquire 100 locomotives for the freight business in 2009-10, a total of 55 are due to be put into service next year
From 2010 high speed services to Valencia will terminate at a temporary facility now nearing completion. Comprehensive remodelling of the rail network includes construction of a station beneath the existing terminus, with two 1 435 mm and four 1668 mm gauge tracks on a new north-south through route under the city.
Railway Gazette
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Thursday, October 8, 2009
High Speed Trains in Spain - Part Three
Construction and current development
Northeastern Corridor - to the French Border
Main article: LGV Perpignan-Figueres
Construction is currently underway to connect the new high speed line from Barcelona to the French TGV network via the Perthus tunnel under the Pyrenees. As of April 2009the AVE network ends at Barcelona, and the TGV at Montpellier.
The line from Barcelona to Figueres is scheduled to open in 2012, as well as line from Figueres to Perpignan in the same year. France has yet to commit to the construction of the section between Perpignan and Montpellier. As a result trains will use the existing regular railway line north of Perpignan to reach the TGV Network at Montpellier.
The line will be operated by Talgo and Siemens AG train sets, although it will require special dual-voltage trainsets. The French line Perpignan – Montpellier is electrified at 1.5 kV DC, but Spanish trains use 25 kV AC. French trains are dual-voltage allowing both TGV and regional trains to operate on the line. All Spanish trains are single-voltage.
North-Northwestern Corridors
Bilbao-Vitoria-San Sebastian (Basque Y). This line will connect the three Basque capitals in 2011. Planned connection with Madrid via Valladolid, and with the French border via Irún and Bayonne.
Madrid-Pamplona. It will be operational in 2012. There is a planned extension to connect Pamplona with the Basque line and the French border.
Variante de Pajares. This line will cross a very mountainous area between León and Asturias. Planned extension to connect Valladolid with Oviedo and Gijón.
Eje Atlántico de Alta Velocidad (Atlantic line). This line will connect all Galician coastal cities, including A Coruña, Santiago de Compostela and Vigo, with the Portuguese border, and eventually, with Porto.
Ourense-Santiago de Compostela. First segment of the line that will connect Galicia and the Atlantic line with Madrid, via Valladolid.
Southwest - Portuguese Corridor
Cáceres-Mérida-Badajoz-Lisbon. This line will connect the two peninsular capitals in 2 hours and 45 minutes[6], connecting the south west region of Extremadura to the High Speed network. This line has been an important matter in bilateral summits during the last years. Spanish track should be completed around 2013 and the Portuguese one around 2015. It is not clear if there will finally be a station in the Spanish town of Mérida. The line would link with High-speed rail in Portugal, a project announced by the Portuguese government in February 2009.
Eastern Corridor
Madrid-Cuenca-Albacete-Arco mediterráneo (Mediterranean Arc). This line will connect Madrid with Valencia, Alicante, Murcia and Almería. Expected 2009.
Future planned lines
In the short term other connections to the LGV are planned. A new line to France is under construction at La Jonquera in Catalonia with another proposed at Irun in the Basque Country. Other new lines are under consideration, including a line connecting Soria to the Madrid-Barcelona line at Calatayud. Finally, the Madrid-Barcelona line currently terminates in Barcelona's Estació de Sants, there has, however, been talk of a new station being built on the other side of the city in La Sagrera.
In the long term the Spanish government has an ambitious plan to make 7,000 kilometres (4,300 mi) of high-speed railway operational by 2010, with all provincial capitals at most only 4 hours from Madrid, and 6½ hours from Barcelona. According to the Strategic Plan for railway infrastructures developed by the Spanish Ministerio de Fomento Ministry of Public Works, called PEIT, a second expansion programme is planned to start in 2010-11, when the last lines of the first programme still under construction begin operation. This plan has a ten-year scope, ending 2020, and its ambition is to make the 300 km/h (186 mph) network reach 10,000 kilometres (6,200 mi) by the end of that year. This would be the most extensive network in Europe, with several operational links with France and Portugal and is by far the most ambitious high speed rail plan in the European Union.
Critics of this scheme point out that raising the average speed of Spain's regional trains would achieve a much greater global impact at much less cost. At present, there are some rural lines where average speeds barely exceed 60 km/h (37 mph). The speed between some provincial capitals is little better; for example, it takes some 8 hours to cover the 784 kilometres (487 mi) between León and Barcelona.
On the other hand there has been a great improvement of speed and time with trains that link Madrid with other capitals that do not have direct AVE connections, but that use the high speed line for most of the route, such as:
Huelva (4 h 16 min)
Cádiz (4 h 30 min)
Algeciras (5 h 25 min)
Granada (4 h 36 min)
Pamplona (2 h 59 min)
Logroño (3 h 40 min)
Irún (5 h 19 min)
Bilbao (4 h 46 min)
San Sebastián (5 h 20 min)
Santander (4 h 25 min)
Vitoria-Gasteiz (3 h 48 min)
Northeastern Corridor - to the French Border
Main article: LGV Perpignan-Figueres
Construction is currently underway to connect the new high speed line from Barcelona to the French TGV network via the Perthus tunnel under the Pyrenees. As of April 2009the AVE network ends at Barcelona, and the TGV at Montpellier.
The line from Barcelona to Figueres is scheduled to open in 2012, as well as line from Figueres to Perpignan in the same year. France has yet to commit to the construction of the section between Perpignan and Montpellier. As a result trains will use the existing regular railway line north of Perpignan to reach the TGV Network at Montpellier.
The line will be operated by Talgo and Siemens AG train sets, although it will require special dual-voltage trainsets. The French line Perpignan – Montpellier is electrified at 1.5 kV DC, but Spanish trains use 25 kV AC. French trains are dual-voltage allowing both TGV and regional trains to operate on the line. All Spanish trains are single-voltage.
North-Northwestern Corridors
Bilbao-Vitoria-San Sebastian (Basque Y). This line will connect the three Basque capitals in 2011. Planned connection with Madrid via Valladolid, and with the French border via Irún and Bayonne.
Madrid-Pamplona. It will be operational in 2012. There is a planned extension to connect Pamplona with the Basque line and the French border.
Variante de Pajares. This line will cross a very mountainous area between León and Asturias. Planned extension to connect Valladolid with Oviedo and Gijón.
Eje Atlántico de Alta Velocidad (Atlantic line). This line will connect all Galician coastal cities, including A Coruña, Santiago de Compostela and Vigo, with the Portuguese border, and eventually, with Porto.
Ourense-Santiago de Compostela. First segment of the line that will connect Galicia and the Atlantic line with Madrid, via Valladolid.
Southwest - Portuguese Corridor
Cáceres-Mérida-Badajoz-Lisbon. This line will connect the two peninsular capitals in 2 hours and 45 minutes[6], connecting the south west region of Extremadura to the High Speed network. This line has been an important matter in bilateral summits during the last years. Spanish track should be completed around 2013 and the Portuguese one around 2015. It is not clear if there will finally be a station in the Spanish town of Mérida. The line would link with High-speed rail in Portugal, a project announced by the Portuguese government in February 2009.
Eastern Corridor
Madrid-Cuenca-Albacete-Arco mediterráneo (Mediterranean Arc). This line will connect Madrid with Valencia, Alicante, Murcia and Almería. Expected 2009.
Future planned lines
In the short term other connections to the LGV are planned. A new line to France is under construction at La Jonquera in Catalonia with another proposed at Irun in the Basque Country. Other new lines are under consideration, including a line connecting Soria to the Madrid-Barcelona line at Calatayud. Finally, the Madrid-Barcelona line currently terminates in Barcelona's Estació de Sants, there has, however, been talk of a new station being built on the other side of the city in La Sagrera.
In the long term the Spanish government has an ambitious plan to make 7,000 kilometres (4,300 mi) of high-speed railway operational by 2010, with all provincial capitals at most only 4 hours from Madrid, and 6½ hours from Barcelona. According to the Strategic Plan for railway infrastructures developed by the Spanish Ministerio de Fomento Ministry of Public Works, called PEIT, a second expansion programme is planned to start in 2010-11, when the last lines of the first programme still under construction begin operation. This plan has a ten-year scope, ending 2020, and its ambition is to make the 300 km/h (186 mph) network reach 10,000 kilometres (6,200 mi) by the end of that year. This would be the most extensive network in Europe, with several operational links with France and Portugal and is by far the most ambitious high speed rail plan in the European Union.
Critics of this scheme point out that raising the average speed of Spain's regional trains would achieve a much greater global impact at much less cost. At present, there are some rural lines where average speeds barely exceed 60 km/h (37 mph). The speed between some provincial capitals is little better; for example, it takes some 8 hours to cover the 784 kilometres (487 mi) between León and Barcelona.
On the other hand there has been a great improvement of speed and time with trains that link Madrid with other capitals that do not have direct AVE connections, but that use the high speed line for most of the route, such as:
Huelva (4 h 16 min)
Cádiz (4 h 30 min)
Algeciras (5 h 25 min)
Granada (4 h 36 min)
Pamplona (2 h 59 min)
Logroño (3 h 40 min)
Irún (5 h 19 min)
Bilbao (4 h 46 min)
San Sebastián (5 h 20 min)
Santander (4 h 25 min)
Vitoria-Gasteiz (3 h 48 min)
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Work Starts on AVE Line to Algerciras
Work Starts on AVE Line to Algerciras
Early exploratory work as begun on the planned tunnel for the new AVE rail line near Ronda. Renfe has confirmed that the existing line between Bobadilla and Algerciras will be closed for six months from early November and that the work is not just for important maintenance, but to prepare the line for high speed trains. A bus service will run alone the route of the existing line, including Ronda, Gaucin and Cortes de la Frontera whilst the line is closed.
Early exploratory work as begun on the planned tunnel for the new AVE rail line near Ronda. Renfe has confirmed that the existing line between Bobadilla and Algerciras will be closed for six months from early November and that the work is not just for important maintenance, but to prepare the line for high speed trains. A bus service will run alone the route of the existing line, including Ronda, Gaucin and Cortes de la Frontera whilst the line is closed.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
High Speed Trains In Spain - Part Two
AVANT – Media Distancia
In December 2004 a new medium distance service (AV Media Distancia operating under the 'Lanzadera' brand) began between Seville and Córdoba using new S-104 trains,reducing journey times between the two cities to 40 minutes. In 2005 the brand was renamed RENFE Avant and a further service was launched: Madrid–Ciudad Real–Puertollano.
The construction of a 21-kilometre (13 mi) stretch of high speed line from Madrid to Toledo allowed the inauguration of a medium distance service in November 2005. The journey time between the two cities is now less than 30 minutes. The high speed link combined with high property prices in Madrid has encouraged many Madrid commuters to settle in Ciudad Real, the first stop on the Madrid–Seville line.
There has, however, been controversy over the construction of this line as the change to standard gauge track meant that large towns such as Getafe, Aranjuez and Algodor, which now has no commercial services, lost their direct services to Toledo. Furthermore since Toledo is now connected by standard gauge track it is impossible for other passenger or goods trains to reach it that haven't come from other high speed lines.
Further Avant services have been launched with the expansion of the AVE to Valladolid and Barcelona. See below for details of all Avant services.
Madrid–Barcelona
The Madrid–Zaragoza–Barcelona line was inaugurated on 20 February 2008, after parts of the line had operated since 2003 (Madrid–Zaragoza–Lleida) and 2006 (Lleida–Tarragona). Seventeen trains run now every day between 6:00 and 21:00 hrs. This line is currently one of the world's fastest long-distance trains in commercial operation,[4] with non stop trains covering the 621 km (386 mi) between the two cities in just 2 hours 38 minutes, and those stopping at all stations in 3 hours 23 minutes.
Madrid–Valladolid
The Madrid–Segovia–Valladolid line was inaugurated on December 22, 2007. It Includes a tunnel of 28 kilometres (17 mi) at Guadarrama, which is the fourth longest train tunnel in Europe. Valladolid will become the hub for all AVE lines connecting the north and the north west of Spain with the rest of the country. Trainsets used on this line include S120 (max speed 250 km/h (155 mph)), Talgo S130 (Patito, max speed 250 km/h (155 mph)) and the S102 (Pato, max speed 320 km/h/199 mph).
Trains
Currently, there are several series of High speed trains that run the AVE service:
S/100, manufactured by Alstom
S/102, manufactured by Talgo and Bombardier
S/103, manufactured by Siemens, marketed globally under the brand Siemens Velaro
There are also other series of trains that are considered high speed, but don't run under the AVE name. They run under the brand Alvia, and are variable gauge trains. They can run on High speed lines at a maximum of 250 km/h (155 mph), and can also change between standard and Iberian gauge lines without stopping. The trains that are operated under the Alvia brand are:
S/120, manufactured by CAF and Alstom
S/130, manufactured by Talgo and Bombardier
Operational services
Currently the Spanish high speed network is made up of the following services:
AVE Madrid–Seville via Ciudad Real, Puertollano, and Córdoba.
AVE Madrid–Valladolid via Segovia.
AVE Madrid–Barcelona via Guadalajara, Calatayud, Zaragoza, Lleida and Tarragona.
AVE Barcelona–Seville via Zaragoza, Córdoba and Madrid.
AVE Barcelona–Málaga via Zaragoza, Córdoba and Madrid.
AVE Madrid–Huesca via Guadalajara, Calatayud, and Zaragoza.
AVE Madrid–Málaga via Ciudad Real, Puertollano, Córdoba, and Antequera.
AVANT (mid distance) Madrid–Ciudad Real–Puertollano.
AVANT (mid distance) Madrid–Toledo.
AVANT (mid distance) Málaga–Córdoba–Seville via Antequera and Puente Genil
AVANT (mid distance) Segovia–Madrid.
AVANT (mid distance) Calatayud–Zaragoza
AVANT (mid distance) Zaragoza–Huesca
AVANT (mid distance) Barcelona–Lleida
ALVIA [5] (mixed high speed-conventional) Madrid–Irún, via Valladolid, Burgos and San Sebastián.
ALVIA (mixed high speed-conventional) Madrid–Bilbao, via Valladolid and Burgos.
ALVIA (mixed high speed-conventional) Santander–Alicante, via Madrid and Valladolid.
ALVIA (mixed high speed-conventional) Gijón–Alicante, via Valladolid and Madrid.
ALVIA (mixed high speed-conventional) Madrid–Logroño.
ALVIA (mixed high speed-conventional) Barcelona–Irún, via Zaragoza, Pamplona and San Sebastián.
ALVIA (mixed high speed-conventional) Barcelona–Bilbao, via Zaragoza and Logroño.
ALVIA (mixed high speed-conventional) Barcelona–Vigo, via Zaragoza, Pamplona, Vitoria, Burgos, Palencia and Leon. With connection services to Gijón in Leon and to A Coruña in Monforte de Lemos
The central hub of the AVE system is Madrid's Puerta de Atocha, except for the Valladolid line, which terminates at Chamartin Station.
In December 2004 a new medium distance service (AV Media Distancia operating under the 'Lanzadera' brand) began between Seville and Córdoba using new S-104 trains,reducing journey times between the two cities to 40 minutes. In 2005 the brand was renamed RENFE Avant and a further service was launched: Madrid–Ciudad Real–Puertollano.
The construction of a 21-kilometre (13 mi) stretch of high speed line from Madrid to Toledo allowed the inauguration of a medium distance service in November 2005. The journey time between the two cities is now less than 30 minutes. The high speed link combined with high property prices in Madrid has encouraged many Madrid commuters to settle in Ciudad Real, the first stop on the Madrid–Seville line.
There has, however, been controversy over the construction of this line as the change to standard gauge track meant that large towns such as Getafe, Aranjuez and Algodor, which now has no commercial services, lost their direct services to Toledo. Furthermore since Toledo is now connected by standard gauge track it is impossible for other passenger or goods trains to reach it that haven't come from other high speed lines.
Further Avant services have been launched with the expansion of the AVE to Valladolid and Barcelona. See below for details of all Avant services.
Madrid–Barcelona
The Madrid–Zaragoza–Barcelona line was inaugurated on 20 February 2008, after parts of the line had operated since 2003 (Madrid–Zaragoza–Lleida) and 2006 (Lleida–Tarragona). Seventeen trains run now every day between 6:00 and 21:00 hrs. This line is currently one of the world's fastest long-distance trains in commercial operation,[4] with non stop trains covering the 621 km (386 mi) between the two cities in just 2 hours 38 minutes, and those stopping at all stations in 3 hours 23 minutes.
Madrid–Valladolid
The Madrid–Segovia–Valladolid line was inaugurated on December 22, 2007. It Includes a tunnel of 28 kilometres (17 mi) at Guadarrama, which is the fourth longest train tunnel in Europe. Valladolid will become the hub for all AVE lines connecting the north and the north west of Spain with the rest of the country. Trainsets used on this line include S120 (max speed 250 km/h (155 mph)), Talgo S130 (Patito, max speed 250 km/h (155 mph)) and the S102 (Pato, max speed 320 km/h/199 mph).
Trains
Currently, there are several series of High speed trains that run the AVE service:
S/100, manufactured by Alstom
S/102, manufactured by Talgo and Bombardier
S/103, manufactured by Siemens, marketed globally under the brand Siemens Velaro
There are also other series of trains that are considered high speed, but don't run under the AVE name. They run under the brand Alvia, and are variable gauge trains. They can run on High speed lines at a maximum of 250 km/h (155 mph), and can also change between standard and Iberian gauge lines without stopping. The trains that are operated under the Alvia brand are:
S/120, manufactured by CAF and Alstom
S/130, manufactured by Talgo and Bombardier
Operational services
Currently the Spanish high speed network is made up of the following services:
AVE Madrid–Seville via Ciudad Real, Puertollano, and Córdoba.
AVE Madrid–Valladolid via Segovia.
AVE Madrid–Barcelona via Guadalajara, Calatayud, Zaragoza, Lleida and Tarragona.
AVE Barcelona–Seville via Zaragoza, Córdoba and Madrid.
AVE Barcelona–Málaga via Zaragoza, Córdoba and Madrid.
AVE Madrid–Huesca via Guadalajara, Calatayud, and Zaragoza.
AVE Madrid–Málaga via Ciudad Real, Puertollano, Córdoba, and Antequera.
AVANT (mid distance) Madrid–Ciudad Real–Puertollano.
AVANT (mid distance) Madrid–Toledo.
AVANT (mid distance) Málaga–Córdoba–Seville via Antequera and Puente Genil
AVANT (mid distance) Segovia–Madrid.
AVANT (mid distance) Calatayud–Zaragoza
AVANT (mid distance) Zaragoza–Huesca
AVANT (mid distance) Barcelona–Lleida
ALVIA [5] (mixed high speed-conventional) Madrid–Irún, via Valladolid, Burgos and San Sebastián.
ALVIA (mixed high speed-conventional) Madrid–Bilbao, via Valladolid and Burgos.
ALVIA (mixed high speed-conventional) Santander–Alicante, via Madrid and Valladolid.
ALVIA (mixed high speed-conventional) Gijón–Alicante, via Valladolid and Madrid.
ALVIA (mixed high speed-conventional) Madrid–Logroño.
ALVIA (mixed high speed-conventional) Barcelona–Irún, via Zaragoza, Pamplona and San Sebastián.
ALVIA (mixed high speed-conventional) Barcelona–Bilbao, via Zaragoza and Logroño.
ALVIA (mixed high speed-conventional) Barcelona–Vigo, via Zaragoza, Pamplona, Vitoria, Burgos, Palencia and Leon. With connection services to Gijón in Leon and to A Coruña in Monforte de Lemos
The central hub of the AVE system is Madrid's Puerta de Atocha, except for the Valladolid line, which terminates at Chamartin Station.
Friday, September 25, 2009
High Speed Trains In Spain - Part One
The rapidly expanding High Speed Train Network as made Spain one of the world leaders in the provision of fast train services. The Alta Velocidad Española (AVE) is a service of high speed trains operating at speeds of up to 300 km/h (186 mph) on dedicated track in Spain. The name is literally translated from Spanish as "Spanish High Speed", but also a play on the word ave, meaning "bird".
Unlike the rest of the Spanish broad-gauge network, the AVE uses standard gauge, permitting direct connections outside Spain in the future. All AVE trains are currently operated by RENFE, the Spanish state railway company, although it is possible that private companies may be allowed to run lines in the future. On the line from Madrid to Seville, the service guarantees arrival within five minutes of the advertised time, and offers a full refund if the train is delayed further, although only 0.16% of trains have been so. In this regard, the punctuality of the AVE is exceptional compared to other non long distance RENFE services. On other AVE lines, this punctuality promise is more lax (15 minutes on the Barcelona line).
Contents
1 History
1.1 New rail link to Andalusia
1.2 AVANT – Media Distancia
1.3 Madrid–Barcelona
1.4 Madrid–Valladolid
2 Trains
3 Operational services
4 Construction and current development
4.1 Northeastern Corridor - to the French Border
4.2 North-Northwestern Corridors
4.3 Southwest - Portuguese Corridor
4.4 Eastern Corridor
5 Future planned lines
6 See also
7 References
8 External links
History
New rail link to Andalusia
Towards the end of the 1980s a new line was planned to join the Castilian Meseta with Andalusia without passing through the Despeñaperros national park. After considering various options it was decided that a standard-gauge line, allowing for Spain's first high speed rail link, would be built. The project was named N.A.F.A. (Nuevo Acceso Ferroviario a Andalucía/New Rail Link to Andalusia) and was meant to help revitalise the stagnant southern Spanish economy. The line was inaugurated on 14 April 1992 to coincide with Expo 92 being held in Seville. Seven days later on 21 April 1992 commercial service began with six daily services stopping at Madrid, Seville, Córdoba, Puertollano and Ciudad Real. In October 1992 RENFE began the AVE Lanzadera service between Madrid and Puertollano and Ciudad Real.
It has been suggested that the PSOE government chose the French Alstom bid over the Siemens and Talgo bids for political rather than technical reasons, rewarding the French government for its assistance in capturing ETA activists who took "sanctuary" across the border in southern France.[1] Seville's hosting of the 1992 World's Fair prompted its choice for the inaugural AVE line, but there were also accusations that the Spanish head of government Felipe González favoured his home city;[2] apparently, he conceded to support Barcelona in bidding for the 1992 Summer Olympics if Seville would be connected to the AVE first.[3] On the other hand, Seville is still the fifth largest city in Spain, after Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia and Bilbao, with a population of some 700,000. It is also the capital of Andalucia — Spain's most populous Autonomous Community.
In January 1993 the Talgo 200 Madrid–Málaga service commenced, which used AVE lines as far as Córdoba and then Spanish gauge conventional track to reach Málaga. On 23 April of that year, the AVE set a new top speed of 356.8 km/h (221.7 mph) on a test run. Later in 1993 the mixed-method services Talgo 200 Madrid–Cádiz and Talgo 200 Madrid–Huelva began.
In 1994 AVE trains on the Madrid–Seville line began to run at 300 km/h, cutting journey times by 40 minutes and covering the 471 km in just 2½ hours.
Although in 1999 RENFE began a mixed-service Talgo 200 Madrid–Algeciras route, this was, along with the other mixed services, transferred to Grandes Líneas Renfe (RENFE's Spanish gauge long-distance brand) following changes to plans for high speed rail in Spain.
The last segment of the Madrid–Málaga line was completed on December 24, 2007.
Please Visit my Andalucia Dreams Blog
Unlike the rest of the Spanish broad-gauge network, the AVE uses standard gauge, permitting direct connections outside Spain in the future. All AVE trains are currently operated by RENFE, the Spanish state railway company, although it is possible that private companies may be allowed to run lines in the future. On the line from Madrid to Seville, the service guarantees arrival within five minutes of the advertised time, and offers a full refund if the train is delayed further, although only 0.16% of trains have been so. In this regard, the punctuality of the AVE is exceptional compared to other non long distance RENFE services. On other AVE lines, this punctuality promise is more lax (15 minutes on the Barcelona line).
Contents
1 History
1.1 New rail link to Andalusia
1.2 AVANT – Media Distancia
1.3 Madrid–Barcelona
1.4 Madrid–Valladolid
2 Trains
3 Operational services
4 Construction and current development
4.1 Northeastern Corridor - to the French Border
4.2 North-Northwestern Corridors
4.3 Southwest - Portuguese Corridor
4.4 Eastern Corridor
5 Future planned lines
6 See also
7 References
8 External links
History
New rail link to Andalusia
Towards the end of the 1980s a new line was planned to join the Castilian Meseta with Andalusia without passing through the Despeñaperros national park. After considering various options it was decided that a standard-gauge line, allowing for Spain's first high speed rail link, would be built. The project was named N.A.F.A. (Nuevo Acceso Ferroviario a Andalucía/New Rail Link to Andalusia) and was meant to help revitalise the stagnant southern Spanish economy. The line was inaugurated on 14 April 1992 to coincide with Expo 92 being held in Seville. Seven days later on 21 April 1992 commercial service began with six daily services stopping at Madrid, Seville, Córdoba, Puertollano and Ciudad Real. In October 1992 RENFE began the AVE Lanzadera service between Madrid and Puertollano and Ciudad Real.
It has been suggested that the PSOE government chose the French Alstom bid over the Siemens and Talgo bids for political rather than technical reasons, rewarding the French government for its assistance in capturing ETA activists who took "sanctuary" across the border in southern France.[1] Seville's hosting of the 1992 World's Fair prompted its choice for the inaugural AVE line, but there were also accusations that the Spanish head of government Felipe González favoured his home city;[2] apparently, he conceded to support Barcelona in bidding for the 1992 Summer Olympics if Seville would be connected to the AVE first.[3] On the other hand, Seville is still the fifth largest city in Spain, after Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia and Bilbao, with a population of some 700,000. It is also the capital of Andalucia — Spain's most populous Autonomous Community.
In January 1993 the Talgo 200 Madrid–Málaga service commenced, which used AVE lines as far as Córdoba and then Spanish gauge conventional track to reach Málaga. On 23 April of that year, the AVE set a new top speed of 356.8 km/h (221.7 mph) on a test run. Later in 1993 the mixed-method services Talgo 200 Madrid–Cádiz and Talgo 200 Madrid–Huelva began.
In 1994 AVE trains on the Madrid–Seville line began to run at 300 km/h, cutting journey times by 40 minutes and covering the 471 km in just 2½ hours.
Although in 1999 RENFE began a mixed-service Talgo 200 Madrid–Algeciras route, this was, along with the other mixed services, transferred to Grandes Líneas Renfe (RENFE's Spanish gauge long-distance brand) following changes to plans for high speed rail in Spain.
The last segment of the Madrid–Málaga line was completed on December 24, 2007.
Please Visit my Andalucia Dreams Blog
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Visit to Estacion Benaoja - Montejague Railway Station
On a recent trip to the Grazalema National Park, near Ronda I had the chance to stop off at the railway station at Benaoja – Montejague which serves the two named communities in the Sierra de Ronda area. The station is on the Granada – Algerciris line and is the next station to the closed station of Estacion de la Indiana I visited recently. (See post dated 22/08/2009)
The station is surrounded by houses and a number of bars and restaurants, one of which is on the station itself. The railway facilities are kept in very good condition, well maintained, clean and tidy and presents a modern air and is a credit to Renfe and its staff.
I talked to the railway employee who was on duty in the ticket office who was very friendly and quite happy to give me information about the station and railway service. Currently there are 4 trains a day in each direction. Algeciras to Granada at 8.31, 13.45, 17.10 and 20.19 and Granada to Algeciras at 8.11, 10.24, 17.09 and 20.22.
The railway still as an important role to play as road communications in the area are still difficult. A train ride from the station is through some spectacular country and is well worth the time and most enjoyable.
The station is surrounded by houses and a number of bars and restaurants, one of which is on the station itself. The railway facilities are kept in very good condition, well maintained, clean and tidy and presents a modern air and is a credit to Renfe and its staff.
I talked to the railway employee who was on duty in the ticket office who was very friendly and quite happy to give me information about the station and railway service. Currently there are 4 trains a day in each direction. Algeciras to Granada at 8.31, 13.45, 17.10 and 20.19 and Granada to Algeciras at 8.11, 10.24, 17.09 and 20.22.
The railway still as an important role to play as road communications in the area are still difficult. A train ride from the station is through some spectacular country and is well worth the time and most enjoyable.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Visit to Antequere Santa Maria AVE Railway Station
Visit to Antequera Santa Maria Railway Station
My wife and I called at the new AVE (high speed) station at Antequera Santa Maria, which is actually 15km from that town and is located at Colonia Sante Maria. The station is located on the new Malaga to Cordoba AVE high speed line and serves a wide catchment area. The new station has excellent facilities, with bright refreshment rooms, ticket hall, toilets and waiting areas. It also has a very large secure car park close to the station.
There are 11 departures a day to Malaga, 11 to Cordoba, 6 to Savella, 4 to Madrid and 1 to Barcelona. As with all AVE stations security was well in evidence. Security at the station is very tight with scanners and security personal about. Passengers can only reach the platforms 5 minutes before departure. The overall impression is of a very modern and well designed station that is fit for purpose.
www.andaluciandreams.blogspot.com
My wife and I called at the new AVE (high speed) station at Antequera Santa Maria, which is actually 15km from that town and is located at Colonia Sante Maria. The station is located on the new Malaga to Cordoba AVE high speed line and serves a wide catchment area. The new station has excellent facilities, with bright refreshment rooms, ticket hall, toilets and waiting areas. It also has a very large secure car park close to the station.
There are 11 departures a day to Malaga, 11 to Cordoba, 6 to Savella, 4 to Madrid and 1 to Barcelona. As with all AVE stations security was well in evidence. Security at the station is very tight with scanners and security personal about. Passengers can only reach the platforms 5 minutes before departure. The overall impression is of a very modern and well designed station that is fit for purpose.
www.andaluciandreams.blogspot.com
Thursday, September 3, 2009
The Sound of Shunting Trains.
"From the railway station came the sound of shunting trains, ringing and rumbling softened almost into melody by the distance."
- Jeff Waynes Musical Version of The War Of The Worlds.
- Jeff Waynes Musical Version of The War Of The Worlds.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Cercanias - Suburban Trains in Spain.
Cercanias- what are they?
Cercanías are the suburban trains that serve commuters in the big cities. They usually share their main station with the main RENFE station, though their smaller stops differ from those of RENFE.
Timetables.
If you plan on traveling by train to towns and cities near to the city you're staying in, you may well need to use the Cercanía. Unfortunately, the main RENFE site doesn't offer the timetables, so you'll have to click on the links below to find your train.
Important Cercanías Tourist Routes in Andalucia
Cercanía mainly serve residential districts of the bigger cities, though some important tourist routes use these trains. In Malaga, there are a couple of line that serve the main Costa del Sol towns and inland to Alora. Tickets for these trains can be bought from machines in the train stations, thus avoiding long lines at the ticket office.
Cercanías Networks in Detail
As the main RENFE site doesn't show you Cercanías routes in its timetables, you'll have to visit each site individually. Unfortunately, the sites are only in Spanish 'Horario' means 'Timetable', 'Precios' means 'Prices' and 'Plano' means 'Route map'.
•Cercanías in Madrid
•Cercanías in Barcelona
•Cercanías in Seville
•Cercanías in Valencia
•Cercanías in Málaga
•Cercanías in Bilbao
•Cercanías in Asturias
•Cercanías in Cádiz
•Cercanías in Murcia and Alicante
•Cercanías in Santander
•Cercanías in San Sebastian
www.andaluciandreams.blogspot.com
Cercanías are the suburban trains that serve commuters in the big cities. They usually share their main station with the main RENFE station, though their smaller stops differ from those of RENFE.
Timetables.
If you plan on traveling by train to towns and cities near to the city you're staying in, you may well need to use the Cercanía. Unfortunately, the main RENFE site doesn't offer the timetables, so you'll have to click on the links below to find your train.
Important Cercanías Tourist Routes in Andalucia
Cercanía mainly serve residential districts of the bigger cities, though some important tourist routes use these trains. In Malaga, there are a couple of line that serve the main Costa del Sol towns and inland to Alora. Tickets for these trains can be bought from machines in the train stations, thus avoiding long lines at the ticket office.
Cercanías Networks in Detail
As the main RENFE site doesn't show you Cercanías routes in its timetables, you'll have to visit each site individually. Unfortunately, the sites are only in Spanish 'Horario' means 'Timetable', 'Precios' means 'Prices' and 'Plano' means 'Route map'.
•Cercanías in Madrid
•Cercanías in Barcelona
•Cercanías in Seville
•Cercanías in Valencia
•Cercanías in Málaga
•Cercanías in Bilbao
•Cercanías in Asturias
•Cercanías in Cádiz
•Cercanías in Murcia and Alicante
•Cercanías in Santander
•Cercanías in San Sebastian
www.andaluciandreams.blogspot.com
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Visit to Estacion de la Indian Railway Station
Visit to Estacion de la Indiana
I recently had the opportunity to visit the site of the closed railway station of Estacion de la Indiana on the Granada to Algerciras railway line. Estacion de la Indiana is located 10 km from Ronda, in Malaga Province, Andalusia. You approach the station on a narrow unclassified road off the main A376 Ronda to Jerez road via the hamlet of the same name passing 10 -12 houses and a venta.
The station site was still in a tidy condition although the site was deserted at the time of my visit, it consisted of the still occupied station house, the station buildings in decent condition, a new building housing a maintenance base and the old goods shed that was looking decidedly run down. Two old water towers and some of the old signaling remain. The station track layout consists of a passing loop and two sidings (empty with no evidence of recent activity). There are currently three passenger trains a day in each direction and regular freight trains to and from the Algeciras area.
In the future when the line form Bobbadilla to Algerciras is modernized as part of the AVE high speed trains network. Estaction de la Indiana may be developed as the main railway station for the Ronda area in a similar manor to the new AVE station at Colonia de Santa Maria for Antequera. At the moment the present route contains a long dog leg via Arriate. To overcome this it will need the construction of a new section of railway bypassing Ronda town centre station to allow AVE trains to run on a shorter more direct route.
It is always sad to visit a railway facility that is unused although the railway atmosphere is still much in evidence. If the plans work out it will be nice once again catch a train from the station.
I recently had the opportunity to visit the site of the closed railway station of Estacion de la Indiana on the Granada to Algerciras railway line. Estacion de la Indiana is located 10 km from Ronda, in Malaga Province, Andalusia. You approach the station on a narrow unclassified road off the main A376 Ronda to Jerez road via the hamlet of the same name passing 10 -12 houses and a venta.
The station site was still in a tidy condition although the site was deserted at the time of my visit, it consisted of the still occupied station house, the station buildings in decent condition, a new building housing a maintenance base and the old goods shed that was looking decidedly run down. Two old water towers and some of the old signaling remain. The station track layout consists of a passing loop and two sidings (empty with no evidence of recent activity). There are currently three passenger trains a day in each direction and regular freight trains to and from the Algeciras area.
In the future when the line form Bobbadilla to Algerciras is modernized as part of the AVE high speed trains network. Estaction de la Indiana may be developed as the main railway station for the Ronda area in a similar manor to the new AVE station at Colonia de Santa Maria for Antequera. At the moment the present route contains a long dog leg via Arriate. To overcome this it will need the construction of a new section of railway bypassing Ronda town centre station to allow AVE trains to run on a shorter more direct route.
It is always sad to visit a railway facility that is unused although the railway atmosphere is still much in evidence. If the plans work out it will be nice once again catch a train from the station.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Ride on the Costa del Sol Railway
Enjoyable Ride on the Costa del Sol Coastal Railway
The Costa del Sol coastal railway runs from the city of Malaga down the coast through Torremolinos, Benalmadena and terminates at Fuengirola. My wife and I recently went for a return journey from Carvaial (Two stops out of Fuengirola) to Malaga City.
The line serves a very busy built up costal area including commercial developments, holiday complexes and housing. Carvaial station like those on the rest of the line as been modernized and is kept in good condition. You buy your tickets from a machine that is multi lingual and easy to use. The fares are cheap and there is a train every half hour throughout the day.
The line itself is electrified and serves some 20 stations and is extremely busy. You can get many good views from the train including sea view. It is nice to see a different view of the Costa del Sol than the one you get used to from a car. As you travel into the City of Malaga you can see evidence of work on the new Malaga Metro You can also see the new high speed line and old line from the north trailing in on the left hand side. The new standard gauge high speed line is served by AVE trains to Madrid and Barcelona. The old line has a local service to Alora.
The newly rebuilt main station in Malaga is an impressive complex with many shops and entertainment venues. The railway facilities are first class and give passengers a very favorable impression of Malaga. We spent an hour looking round the station and had nice tapas at one of the many eating establishments in the new station. Our train on the return journey was packed with people standing. At each station those passengers who left were replaces by more who joined the train. It was only when we reached Benalmadena that everyone found a seat.
The old EMUs on the line are due to be replaced later in the year by new civia units. Plans to extend the line are in hand to extend the line in the short term to San Pedro de la Alcantara and eventually all the way to Algeciras. I would recommend that anyone visiting the Costa del Sol make at least one journey on the line for the views and that it is quite possible to organize a number of days out to various places served by the line as a very cheap alternative to using a car in what is at times an extremely congested road network.
See also www.andaluciadreams.blogspot.com
The Costa del Sol coastal railway runs from the city of Malaga down the coast through Torremolinos, Benalmadena and terminates at Fuengirola. My wife and I recently went for a return journey from Carvaial (Two stops out of Fuengirola) to Malaga City.
The line serves a very busy built up costal area including commercial developments, holiday complexes and housing. Carvaial station like those on the rest of the line as been modernized and is kept in good condition. You buy your tickets from a machine that is multi lingual and easy to use. The fares are cheap and there is a train every half hour throughout the day.
The line itself is electrified and serves some 20 stations and is extremely busy. You can get many good views from the train including sea view. It is nice to see a different view of the Costa del Sol than the one you get used to from a car. As you travel into the City of Malaga you can see evidence of work on the new Malaga Metro You can also see the new high speed line and old line from the north trailing in on the left hand side. The new standard gauge high speed line is served by AVE trains to Madrid and Barcelona. The old line has a local service to Alora.
The newly rebuilt main station in Malaga is an impressive complex with many shops and entertainment venues. The railway facilities are first class and give passengers a very favorable impression of Malaga. We spent an hour looking round the station and had nice tapas at one of the many eating establishments in the new station. Our train on the return journey was packed with people standing. At each station those passengers who left were replaces by more who joined the train. It was only when we reached Benalmadena that everyone found a seat.
The old EMUs on the line are due to be replaced later in the year by new civia units. Plans to extend the line are in hand to extend the line in the short term to San Pedro de la Alcantara and eventually all the way to Algeciras. I would recommend that anyone visiting the Costa del Sol make at least one journey on the line for the views and that it is quite possible to organize a number of days out to various places served by the line as a very cheap alternative to using a car in what is at times an extremely congested road network.
See also www.andaluciadreams.blogspot.com
Extremadura - Madrid Trains To Speed Up
Faster to Extremadura
Tenders are to be called in the last quarter of this year for the construction of a gauge-changing facility at Brazatortas-Veredas, enabling trains from Mérida and Badajoz to use the high speed line from Córdoba to reach Madrid.
The work is expected to take 10 months to complete within a budget of €10m, and should cut the fastest journey time between Madrid and Badajoz from 5 h 30 min to around 3 h 50 min.
As work progresses on building a high speed to Badajoz, where the alignment between Mérida and Badajoz is now over 70% complete, ADIF is to invest €77m in the conventional route between Madrid and Badajoz as part of the government programme to revive the railfreight sector. Track renewals scheduled for next year include the 93 km between Brazatortas and Cabeza del Buey at a cost of €55m, as well as the 31 km Cabeza del Buey – Castuera section where work is expected to cost €18m.l
Tenders are to be called in the last quarter of this year for the construction of a gauge-changing facility at Brazatortas-Veredas, enabling trains from Mérida and Badajoz to use the high speed line from Córdoba to reach Madrid.
The work is expected to take 10 months to complete within a budget of €10m, and should cut the fastest journey time between Madrid and Badajoz from 5 h 30 min to around 3 h 50 min.
As work progresses on building a high speed to Badajoz, where the alignment between Mérida and Badajoz is now over 70% complete, ADIF is to invest €77m in the conventional route between Madrid and Badajoz as part of the government programme to revive the railfreight sector. Track renewals scheduled for next year include the 93 km between Brazatortas and Cabeza del Buey at a cost of €55m, as well as the 31 km Cabeza del Buey – Castuera section where work is expected to cost €18m.l
Saturday, August 15, 2009
New Use for Old Railway - Cycle Track
The old disused Malaga to Cartama railway line could be converted into a new green cycle way. The planned route would be over 24 km long.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
2 AVE Stations for Antequera
The Andalucian area of Antequera will soon have two AVE high-speed train stations. The first one was opened at Colonia de Santa, some 18 km from the town centre on the new Cordoba – Malaga AVE line. The high-speed train line between Sevilla and Granada will cross the Cordoba – Malaga line at Colonia de Santa Maria. This line will have a train station in the urban area of Antequera, which currently as one conventional station train station at Bobadilla Estacion. Antequera will also have high speed trains to Ronda and Algeciras.
The Junta de Andalucia also invited tenders for two of the most complex railway sections between Anteqera and Savilla. The Public Works and Transport councilor, Rosa Aguilar, said that the high-speed line is now 60% complete. She remarked that the Junta has invested 401 million euros and that 2524 jobs have been created. The Granada – Seville high speed line will open in 2013.
The Junta de Andalucia also invited tenders for two of the most complex railway sections between Anteqera and Savilla. The Public Works and Transport councilor, Rosa Aguilar, said that the high-speed line is now 60% complete. She remarked that the Junta has invested 401 million euros and that 2524 jobs have been created. The Granada – Seville high speed line will open in 2013.
Monday, August 3, 2009
Rail Gauges in Spain
Rail transport in Spain operates on four rail gauges and services are operated by a variety of private and public operators. The total route length in 2004 was 14,781 km (8,791 km electrified):[1]
broad gauge (1,668 mm)
11,829 km (6,950 km electrified at 3 kV DC)
standard gauge (1,435 mm)
998 km (all electrified at 25 kV AC)
narrow gauge (1,000 mm)
1,926 km (815 km electrified)
narrow gauge (914 mm)
28 km (all electrified)
Most railways are operated by RENFE; narrow-gauge lines are operated by FEVE and other carriers in individual autonomous communities. It is proposed to build or convert more standard-gauge lines, including some dual gauging of broad-gauge lines, especially where these lines link to adjacent countries.
broad gauge (1,668 mm)
11,829 km (6,950 km electrified at 3 kV DC)
standard gauge (1,435 mm)
998 km (all electrified at 25 kV AC)
narrow gauge (1,000 mm)
1,926 km (815 km electrified)
narrow gauge (914 mm)
28 km (all electrified)
Most railways are operated by RENFE; narrow-gauge lines are operated by FEVE and other carriers in individual autonomous communities. It is proposed to build or convert more standard-gauge lines, including some dual gauging of broad-gauge lines, especially where these lines link to adjacent countries.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Extention to Costa del Sol Rail Line
Extention of Coast Railway.
Marbella will soon be connected to the Spanish Rail Network. The line will run from the existing Fuengirola line to San Pedro. And later will link Malaga City with Algeciras by rail. New stations on the first section will be located at Puerto De Cabopino, Las Dunas, Costal Del Sol Hospital, Marbella, Marbella West, Puerto Banus and San Pedro.
Sur in English
Marbella will soon be connected to the Spanish Rail Network. The line will run from the existing Fuengirola line to San Pedro. And later will link Malaga City with Algeciras by rail. New stations on the first section will be located at Puerto De Cabopino, Las Dunas, Costal Del Sol Hospital, Marbella, Marbella West, Puerto Banus and San Pedro.
Sur in English
Across the Straight of Gibraltar
Acoss the Straights of Gibraltar.
An European Union committee is at the moment studying a proposed project for a 40km railway bridge or tunnel link between Punta Polomas, near Algeciras Spain and Malabata in Northern Morocco where a high speed rail line is under construction.
The Olive Press.
An European Union committee is at the moment studying a proposed project for a 40km railway bridge or tunnel link between Punta Polomas, near Algeciras Spain and Malabata in Northern Morocco where a high speed rail line is under construction.
The Olive Press.
Monday, July 27, 2009
AVE Madrid - Barcelona takes Larger Share of Market.
Talgo’s 380 km/h Avril train to take on the airlines
27 July 2009
SPAIN: In its first 18 months of full operation, the Madrid - Barcelona high speed line has made significant inroads into market share on what was the country’s busiest domestic air corridor. But RENFE Operadora believes it needs to do more if rail is to achieve total dominance.
With 300 km/h operation the journey time is 2 h 40 min non-stop, or around 3 h with calls at Zaragoza, Lleida and Camp de Tarragona. According to Ignacio de Rebeira Sánchez, Head of Innovation at RENFE’s High Speed & Long Distance business, a 2 h 30 min timing is essential; he believes this will be achievable with 320 km/h running, which he considers more realistic than the 350 km/h for which the line was designed.
Whilst the Siemens-built Series 103 and Talgo/Bombardier Series 102 sets are designed for 350 km/h, the gauge-changing trains used for through services off the standard-gauge line are limited to 250 km/h. Speaking at a workshop in Barcelona on June 18-19, organised by the Spanish Railway Foundation to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the start of gauge-changing trains with the Barcelona - Genève Catalan Talgo, Talgo’s Director of Research & Development Dr Emilio García announced that higher speed trials will be undertaken later this year. A prototype trainset derived from the Series 130 will be used to verify the performance of the gauge-changing wheelsets at 300 km/h.
These tests are also intended to contribute to another project, which will see the emergence in 2011 of Talgo’s next-generation trainset, code-named Avril (Alta Velocidad Rueda Independiente Ligero). Technical details are under wraps until mid-2010, but like the Series 130 Avril will have two driving vehicles on powered bogies and 12 articulated trailers riding on 11 single wheelsets.
To allow train operators to offer fares competitive with low-cost airlines, Avril is intended to provide up to 700 seats in a 200 m single-deck trainset. Moving the traction equipment underfloor will release space in the power cars, and Talgo plans to capitalise on the short 13 m length of the trailers by pushing the width out to 3 200 mm, permitting 3+2 seating in second class.
According to company insiders, Avril is being designed for operation at no less than 380 km/h, with inter-car linkages helping to keep the wide bodies within the loading gauge and possibly providing a small degree of tilt in curves. While the prototype is envisaged as a standard-gauge trainset, it is also seen as a platform for a future gauge-convertible version. Potential customers are reportedly ‘very interested’.
Railway Gazette.
27 July 2009
SPAIN: In its first 18 months of full operation, the Madrid - Barcelona high speed line has made significant inroads into market share on what was the country’s busiest domestic air corridor. But RENFE Operadora believes it needs to do more if rail is to achieve total dominance.
With 300 km/h operation the journey time is 2 h 40 min non-stop, or around 3 h with calls at Zaragoza, Lleida and Camp de Tarragona. According to Ignacio de Rebeira Sánchez, Head of Innovation at RENFE’s High Speed & Long Distance business, a 2 h 30 min timing is essential; he believes this will be achievable with 320 km/h running, which he considers more realistic than the 350 km/h for which the line was designed.
Whilst the Siemens-built Series 103 and Talgo/Bombardier Series 102 sets are designed for 350 km/h, the gauge-changing trains used for through services off the standard-gauge line are limited to 250 km/h. Speaking at a workshop in Barcelona on June 18-19, organised by the Spanish Railway Foundation to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the start of gauge-changing trains with the Barcelona - Genève Catalan Talgo, Talgo’s Director of Research & Development Dr Emilio García announced that higher speed trials will be undertaken later this year. A prototype trainset derived from the Series 130 will be used to verify the performance of the gauge-changing wheelsets at 300 km/h.
These tests are also intended to contribute to another project, which will see the emergence in 2011 of Talgo’s next-generation trainset, code-named Avril (Alta Velocidad Rueda Independiente Ligero). Technical details are under wraps until mid-2010, but like the Series 130 Avril will have two driving vehicles on powered bogies and 12 articulated trailers riding on 11 single wheelsets.
To allow train operators to offer fares competitive with low-cost airlines, Avril is intended to provide up to 700 seats in a 200 m single-deck trainset. Moving the traction equipment underfloor will release space in the power cars, and Talgo plans to capitalise on the short 13 m length of the trailers by pushing the width out to 3 200 mm, permitting 3+2 seating in second class.
According to company insiders, Avril is being designed for operation at no less than 380 km/h, with inter-car linkages helping to keep the wide bodies within the loading gauge and possibly providing a small degree of tilt in curves. While the prototype is envisaged as a standard-gauge trainset, it is also seen as a platform for a future gauge-convertible version. Potential customers are reportedly ‘very interested’.
Railway Gazette.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
AVE Trains Cut Carbon Imissions
Imagine travelling by train from London to Brighton in 23 minutes or to Southampton in 32 minutes. Imagine letting the train take the strain from Oxford to Brighton via the outskirts of London in 50 minutes. Un-thinkable, of course.
But not for us living in Andalucia. We will soon be able to travel on a network of AVE (Alto Velocidad Espanola) rail routes inter-connecting all the regional cities in not much under an hour. Malaga to Savills in 55 minutes, Cadiz to Granada in 1 houe and 38 minutes, and Ronda (where I live) to Malaga, Sevilla, Cordoba and Granada in less than an houe. Hurrah!
The Spanish Government is committed to constructing 10,000 kilometers of high-speed rail routes throughout Spain by 2020. The plan means that 90% of the population will be no more than 50km from a station on an AVE route. It is no surprise then that President Obama recently praised Spain`s railways while launching similar plans in the United States. The plaudits are well deserved. There are already more high speed routes in Spain than either France or Germany, and both are well ahead of the United Kingdom.
Funded partly by European Union grants and loans from the European Investment Bank, the network is cutting Spains carbon imissions because AVE trains use 19%less energy than conventional trains.
Source. Ray Ward. The Olive Press.
But not for us living in Andalucia. We will soon be able to travel on a network of AVE (Alto Velocidad Espanola) rail routes inter-connecting all the regional cities in not much under an hour. Malaga to Savills in 55 minutes, Cadiz to Granada in 1 houe and 38 minutes, and Ronda (where I live) to Malaga, Sevilla, Cordoba and Granada in less than an houe. Hurrah!
The Spanish Government is committed to constructing 10,000 kilometers of high-speed rail routes throughout Spain by 2020. The plan means that 90% of the population will be no more than 50km from a station on an AVE route. It is no surprise then that President Obama recently praised Spain`s railways while launching similar plans in the United States. The plaudits are well deserved. There are already more high speed routes in Spain than either France or Germany, and both are well ahead of the United Kingdom.
Funded partly by European Union grants and loans from the European Investment Bank, the network is cutting Spains carbon imissions because AVE trains use 19%less energy than conventional trains.
Source. Ray Ward. The Olive Press.
Saturday, July 18, 2009
High Speed Trains Take Bigger Market Share.
Spain which entered the high-speed era in 1992 with the opening of the Madrid-Seville line and is now the most ambitious country in Europe in the rate of growth of its high-speed network. Having just completed the Madrid to Barcelona line, Spain now has 1,600km of high speed line in operation, with another 2,200 under construction and 1,700km planned.
A key construction project is the line north from Barcelona into the French Sud-Est line. This line is of particular significance for European high-speed rail policy for reasons other than its 17 mile tunnel and the link between the Spanish and French networks which it brings. An intense debate is taking place between the Spanish, Catalan and French authorities as to whether the line will carry freight or be passenger only. The Catalan transport minister told me he was pressing strongly for it to be a mixed freight and passenger line, to take lorries off the route north and boost the economic dividend from the line. For the line to carry mixed traffic, however, requires not only a departure from French high-speed practice: it also has a major bearing on the engineering of the line, as it would need shallower gradients, and therefore also on its cost north of the French border, to which, politely, the French have suggested that the Spanish and/or Catalan governments might wish to contribute if they want the much costlier option. Here again the freight issue is rearing its head fairly starkly.
However, the most remarkable feature of Spanish high-speed rail is the sheer scale and rapidity of its development, in a country without an especially strong prior railway tradition. There is a debate about whether the lines were built in the right order. It was clearly a political decision by Philipe Gonzales to build the first line from Madrid to his home town of Seville – the deal is said to have been that Barcelona got the 1992 Olympics in return. But Barcelona now has its line too, and the Spanish government in 2005 published a national high-speed plan with a target of 10,000km of high-speed line by 2020 connecting all the nation’s provincial capitals, accounting for 90% of the population [show slide 3]. It estimates that the cost will be met from allocating 1.5% of GDP to national infrastructure until 2020, which it projects – with additional revenue from concessions – to give a cumulative investment budget of 250bn Euros of which half – yes, half – will go to rail. Spain will be spending 10bn Euros on rail infrastructure investment this year alone, 6bn of it on new high-speed lines. These figures are simply mind-boggling: Network Rail’s has a £10bn budget for capacity enhancement for the next five years. The Spanish Transport Minister told me: “A high-speed fever has taken over the country,” perhaps the most expensive fever in Spanish history.
However, the Spanish are delighted with the results. They are particularly pleased by the initial success of the Madrid to Barcelona line, which only opened last February, with a fastest journey time of 2 hours 38 minutes for the 386 miles, about to come down further to 2 hours 15 minutes. When the service started a few months ago rail had only 16% of the combined train and air market; now [show slide 4] it has 48 per cent, and they expect this to rise to 70% or higher before long, which accords with the experience on similar lines such as London to Paris and Brussels. The load factor on these AVE services is also a high 65%.The traffic on the new AVE line to Malaga is starting to build up and is already taking large numbers of passengers from the domestic airlines.
A key construction project is the line north from Barcelona into the French Sud-Est line. This line is of particular significance for European high-speed rail policy for reasons other than its 17 mile tunnel and the link between the Spanish and French networks which it brings. An intense debate is taking place between the Spanish, Catalan and French authorities as to whether the line will carry freight or be passenger only. The Catalan transport minister told me he was pressing strongly for it to be a mixed freight and passenger line, to take lorries off the route north and boost the economic dividend from the line. For the line to carry mixed traffic, however, requires not only a departure from French high-speed practice: it also has a major bearing on the engineering of the line, as it would need shallower gradients, and therefore also on its cost north of the French border, to which, politely, the French have suggested that the Spanish and/or Catalan governments might wish to contribute if they want the much costlier option. Here again the freight issue is rearing its head fairly starkly.
However, the most remarkable feature of Spanish high-speed rail is the sheer scale and rapidity of its development, in a country without an especially strong prior railway tradition. There is a debate about whether the lines were built in the right order. It was clearly a political decision by Philipe Gonzales to build the first line from Madrid to his home town of Seville – the deal is said to have been that Barcelona got the 1992 Olympics in return. But Barcelona now has its line too, and the Spanish government in 2005 published a national high-speed plan with a target of 10,000km of high-speed line by 2020 connecting all the nation’s provincial capitals, accounting for 90% of the population [show slide 3]. It estimates that the cost will be met from allocating 1.5% of GDP to national infrastructure until 2020, which it projects – with additional revenue from concessions – to give a cumulative investment budget of 250bn Euros of which half – yes, half – will go to rail. Spain will be spending 10bn Euros on rail infrastructure investment this year alone, 6bn of it on new high-speed lines. These figures are simply mind-boggling: Network Rail’s has a £10bn budget for capacity enhancement for the next five years. The Spanish Transport Minister told me: “A high-speed fever has taken over the country,” perhaps the most expensive fever in Spanish history.
However, the Spanish are delighted with the results. They are particularly pleased by the initial success of the Madrid to Barcelona line, which only opened last February, with a fastest journey time of 2 hours 38 minutes for the 386 miles, about to come down further to 2 hours 15 minutes. When the service started a few months ago rail had only 16% of the combined train and air market; now [show slide 4] it has 48 per cent, and they expect this to rise to 70% or higher before long, which accords with the experience on similar lines such as London to Paris and Brussels. The load factor on these AVE services is also a high 65%.The traffic on the new AVE line to Malaga is starting to build up and is already taking large numbers of passengers from the domestic airlines.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Level Crossing Death in Ronda
A woman car driver was killed when her car was hit by a train at the crossing near the Virgin de la Paz Military Barracks. There is no barrier at the crossing. The accident happend at around 5pm. The vehicle was dragged 30 metres along the tracks and the body of the victom was thrown from the car.
The accident as alarmed local people and as once again put into question the use of level crossings without barriers in the Ronda area. Last year a simular incident at another Ronda crossing resulted in the death of a local man.
The accident as alarmed local people and as once again put into question the use of level crossings without barriers in the Ronda area. Last year a simular incident at another Ronda crossing resulted in the death of a local man.
Friday, June 19, 2009
Progress on New AVE in Andalucia
By 2013 all the principle cities of Andalucia, Cordoba, Malage, Savilla and Granada will be linked by fast AVE trains. The existing line from Malaga to Cordoba and Madrid will be joined by a number of new lines. AVEs will run from Malaga to Saville in 55 minutes, and to Granada in 50 minutes. The largest towns along the routes will also be linked into the new system, via the link line that will connect Algeciras with Ronda and Antequera.
Most of the work already finished has been carried out on the line to Saville. This is being done in two phases. the first between Antequere and Marchene and the second between Marchene and Savilla. The Granada line is expected to be complted at the same time as the Marchene line. Work on the third line from Algeciras to Antequera via Ronda is expected to be finished in just under three years.
Most of the work already finished has been carried out on the line to Saville. This is being done in two phases. the first between Antequere and Marchene and the second between Marchene and Savilla. The Granada line is expected to be complted at the same time as the Marchene line. Work on the third line from Algeciras to Antequera via Ronda is expected to be finished in just under three years.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
New Underpass at Estacion de Cartama
The new underpass at Estacion de Cartama on the Malaga to Alora railway line has been opened to make it safer for pedestrians. The underpass will connet the northern area of Estacion de Cartama, where most people live with the southern area. The work as cost 1.3 million euros.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Velez - Malaga Trams in Collisions
Just two weeks after the most serious accident yet involving the Velez-Malaga tram line last Sunday saw another collision. A car hit the tram on the roundabout where Calle Las Arenas and Calle Azucarea meet Avenida de Andalucia in Torre del Mar at around nine o'clock in the evening.
Only material damage was caused. The car had lost part of its bumper in the collision but the owner drove off almost immediately after a confrontation with the tram driver. The tram only suffered a few scratches and was able to continue on its way to Velez.
On Monday, May 25th, at around 9 o'clock in the morning, three passengers had to be admitted to hospital with minor injuries after the tram they were travelling in ran past the last stop on the line, crashing into three parked cars and a lorry, at the Jurado Lorca Park in Velez-Malaga. The reson why the tram failed to stop is not known at this time. But it was the lorry that finally stoped it.
Only material damage was caused. The car had lost part of its bumper in the collision but the owner drove off almost immediately after a confrontation with the tram driver. The tram only suffered a few scratches and was able to continue on its way to Velez.
On Monday, May 25th, at around 9 o'clock in the morning, three passengers had to be admitted to hospital with minor injuries after the tram they were travelling in ran past the last stop on the line, crashing into three parked cars and a lorry, at the Jurado Lorca Park in Velez-Malaga. The reson why the tram failed to stop is not known at this time. But it was the lorry that finally stoped it.
Saturday, June 13, 2009
New Trains For Malaga, Fuengirola and Alora Lines
As part of a plan to replace old trains on the Malaga to Fuengirola and Malaga to Alora lines, two new Civia EMUs came into service on Monday 25th May 2009.
The Civia EMUs have improved accessibility, with lower floors and ramps on the third carriage for passengers suffering from reduced mobility. The third carriage will also offer for the first time on the lines space for a number of bicycles.
The carriages have no doors or obstructions between them to make movement up and down the trains easier. The complete order for five trains will be in service by October 2009. Ticket prices and timetables will remain unchanged.
www.myhelpyouesuccess.blogspot.com
The Civia EMUs have improved accessibility, with lower floors and ramps on the third carriage for passengers suffering from reduced mobility. The third carriage will also offer for the first time on the lines space for a number of bicycles.
The carriages have no doors or obstructions between them to make movement up and down the trains easier. The complete order for five trains will be in service by October 2009. Ticket prices and timetables will remain unchanged.
www.myhelpyouesuccess.blogspot.com
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Closure Of Malaga to Fuengirola Line
Work being carried out on the future Malaga airport connection means the C - 1 Costa del Sol local trains will not run between the airport and the Vialia - Maria Zambrano station on Malaga city for a week starting Saturday 6th June 2009. The large number of passengers who use the line between Fuengirola, Banalmadena, Torremolinos and Malaga every day will have to use a bus between Malaga and the airport stations. The work will not affect trains on the local service to Alora.
Friday, June 5, 2009
Trains in Andalucia
Spain's modern day railway system makes travelling by train a delight. Thanks to excellent infrastructure, comfortable trains and good service, more and more people are choosing this relaxing, ecologically friendly form of transport in order to truly experience the best of southern Spain.
The Spanish railway network is run by the state owned company Renfe. In recent years Renfe has made a tremendous investment in Spain's railway network, particularly in the new High Speed (Alta Velocidad) rail system. By 2010, the company will have acquired a total of 560 new trains with 103 dedicated to high speed routes Renfe is also an excellent form of transport for merchandise both within the country and for companies wishing to export products abroad.
Following is a basic look at service, which should be complemented by a consultation with your travel agent or Renfe’s excellent online information service.
International Train Service to Andalucia
International trains from France terminate at either Madrid or Barcelona. From there you can catch a train to many of the cities in Andalucia - or anywhere else in Spain, for that matter. You can also travel by Renfe trains between some of the main provincial capitals on the Avant and Medium Distance trains in the south of Spain, and to some of the smaller villages as well, thanks to the numerous "Cercanías", local train routes.
High Speed Long Distance Trains in Andalucia
The magnificent AVE high speed (alta velocidad) trains runs on a special line between:
Madrid and Cordoba (1 hrs. 45 min.)
Madrid and Seville. (under 2 hrs. 30 min.)
Madrid and Málaga (2 hrs 30 min.) with service to Antequera and Puente Genil as well
Málaga and Barcelona (5 hrs. 30 min. appx.)
Seville and Barcelona (5 hrs. 30 min. appx.)
Medium Distance Trains in Andalucia
This service interconnects the entire country. In Andalucia it brings together such provincial capitals as Málaga, Córdoba and Seville.
There is also a service from:
Sevilla-Cádiz
Sevilla-Córdoba-Jaén
Huelva-Sevilla
Sevilla-Málaga
Sevilla-Granada-Almería
Granada-Linares Baeza
Algeciras-Granada
See these routes on the map below:
AVANT
The Renfe Avant trains are high Speedy trains for medium distance routes. In Andalucia, they circulate between Seville, Córdoba and Málaga.
Sevilla-Córdoba: 45 minutos
Córdoba-Málaga: 1 hora 05 minutos
Sevilla-Málaga: 1 hora 55 minutos
Local Train Networks (Cercanias)
Among the routes of these stopping trains are the following:
Malaga to Fuengirola (Calling at Malaga airport)
Malaga to Álora
Seville to Cazalla-Constantina
Seville to Loria del Rio
Seville to Utrera
Seville C-4 Sevilla Santa Justa – Palacio de Congresos (Congress Hall)
Cadiz to Jerez de la Fronterra
Booking and Tickets
Booking is very easy thanks to an excellent website that simply requires you to enter basic data to obtain information and booking services. It is advisable to book ahead for travel on the High Speed Long Distance trains especially if travelling at weekends and bank holidays. Booking can also be made at main stations and Renfe agents which includes many travel agents.
Tickets are reasonably priced but prices vary depending on the class (Club, Preferente, Turista) of service and the peak hour times (Llano, Valle).
Special Prices
Children six and under ride free on local trains with children four and under free of charge on the rest of trains. In the next category, children up to age 14 have a 40 percent discount on their ticket price that can not be combined with any other offer. If you are travelling with a group of students, inquire about special pricing structures.
If you have 3 or more children and live in Spain, you can apply for a "Familia Numerosa" card and obtain a 20 percent discount for all family members and 50 percent off for those who fall in the "special" category.
Various special rates are available for citizens over the age of 65 years old. To obtain special rates in this category it is necessary to first acquire the "Tarjeta Dorada" (Gold Card) either from a Renfe agent or a travel agent. The cost of the card is 5 euros and it must be renewed annually. A Renfe agent or cooperating travel agent can determine if you qualify for other discounts, such as the youth card, group rates, cruise rates or the “Estrella” and “Web” special promotions that can save you up to 40 and 60 percent respectively off your ticket prices.
Refunds
Ticket costs may be partially or totally refunded when a train does not arrive on time, depending on the cause of the delay and how late the train arrives to its final destination. Be sure to save your proof of purchase and if your train arrives late, ask a RENFE representative for more information regarding possible refunds.
Pets
One small domestic pet (up to 6 kilos maximum) per passenger is allowed on all trains provided other users do not complain, that there is space available and that safety and hygiene standards are met. Pets must be in a cage (maximum dimensions = 65x35x35 cm) with facilities to eliminate waste. Check for possible additional restrictions on some medium and short distance routes as well as ticket prices.
The Spanish railway network is run by the state owned company Renfe. In recent years Renfe has made a tremendous investment in Spain's railway network, particularly in the new High Speed (Alta Velocidad) rail system. By 2010, the company will have acquired a total of 560 new trains with 103 dedicated to high speed routes Renfe is also an excellent form of transport for merchandise both within the country and for companies wishing to export products abroad.
Following is a basic look at service, which should be complemented by a consultation with your travel agent or Renfe’s excellent online information service.
International Train Service to Andalucia
International trains from France terminate at either Madrid or Barcelona. From there you can catch a train to many of the cities in Andalucia - or anywhere else in Spain, for that matter. You can also travel by Renfe trains between some of the main provincial capitals on the Avant and Medium Distance trains in the south of Spain, and to some of the smaller villages as well, thanks to the numerous "Cercanías", local train routes.
High Speed Long Distance Trains in Andalucia
The magnificent AVE high speed (alta velocidad) trains runs on a special line between:
Madrid and Cordoba (1 hrs. 45 min.)
Madrid and Seville. (under 2 hrs. 30 min.)
Madrid and Málaga (2 hrs 30 min.) with service to Antequera and Puente Genil as well
Málaga and Barcelona (5 hrs. 30 min. appx.)
Seville and Barcelona (5 hrs. 30 min. appx.)
Medium Distance Trains in Andalucia
This service interconnects the entire country. In Andalucia it brings together such provincial capitals as Málaga, Córdoba and Seville.
There is also a service from:
Sevilla-Cádiz
Sevilla-Córdoba-Jaén
Huelva-Sevilla
Sevilla-Málaga
Sevilla-Granada-Almería
Granada-Linares Baeza
Algeciras-Granada
See these routes on the map below:
AVANT
The Renfe Avant trains are high Speedy trains for medium distance routes. In Andalucia, they circulate between Seville, Córdoba and Málaga.
Sevilla-Córdoba: 45 minutos
Córdoba-Málaga: 1 hora 05 minutos
Sevilla-Málaga: 1 hora 55 minutos
Local Train Networks (Cercanias)
Among the routes of these stopping trains are the following:
Malaga to Fuengirola (Calling at Malaga airport)
Malaga to Álora
Seville to Cazalla-Constantina
Seville to Loria del Rio
Seville to Utrera
Seville C-4 Sevilla Santa Justa – Palacio de Congresos (Congress Hall)
Cadiz to Jerez de la Fronterra
Booking and Tickets
Booking is very easy thanks to an excellent website that simply requires you to enter basic data to obtain information and booking services. It is advisable to book ahead for travel on the High Speed Long Distance trains especially if travelling at weekends and bank holidays. Booking can also be made at main stations and Renfe agents which includes many travel agents.
Tickets are reasonably priced but prices vary depending on the class (Club, Preferente, Turista) of service and the peak hour times (Llano, Valle).
Special Prices
Children six and under ride free on local trains with children four and under free of charge on the rest of trains. In the next category, children up to age 14 have a 40 percent discount on their ticket price that can not be combined with any other offer. If you are travelling with a group of students, inquire about special pricing structures.
If you have 3 or more children and live in Spain, you can apply for a "Familia Numerosa" card and obtain a 20 percent discount for all family members and 50 percent off for those who fall in the "special" category.
Various special rates are available for citizens over the age of 65 years old. To obtain special rates in this category it is necessary to first acquire the "Tarjeta Dorada" (Gold Card) either from a Renfe agent or a travel agent. The cost of the card is 5 euros and it must be renewed annually. A Renfe agent or cooperating travel agent can determine if you qualify for other discounts, such as the youth card, group rates, cruise rates or the “Estrella” and “Web” special promotions that can save you up to 40 and 60 percent respectively off your ticket prices.
Refunds
Ticket costs may be partially or totally refunded when a train does not arrive on time, depending on the cause of the delay and how late the train arrives to its final destination. Be sure to save your proof of purchase and if your train arrives late, ask a RENFE representative for more information regarding possible refunds.
Pets
One small domestic pet (up to 6 kilos maximum) per passenger is allowed on all trains provided other users do not complain, that there is space available and that safety and hygiene standards are met. Pets must be in a cage (maximum dimensions = 65x35x35 cm) with facilities to eliminate waste. Check for possible additional restrictions on some medium and short distance routes as well as ticket prices.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Welcome To My New Blog
Welcome to my new blog 'Trains in Spain 'I hope that it will become a place of interest to for those following railway developments in sunny Spain.
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