After conquering the Paris market with its VTCs, Uber is now planning to launch its own rail project. In partnership with Gemini Trains, the American giant would like to compete with Eurostar and establish its own lines between London, Paris, Brussels and Lille. A new option that would see the light of day in 2030, departing from the Gare du Nord.
A high-speed Paris-London link soon operated by Uber?
Big changes are in store for the Channel Tunnel. After Trenitalia, another operator is coveting the link between the two European capitals. Starting in 2030, Uber could join the party, offering high-speed connections north of Paris.
While a difference in fares is expected, Uber would distinguish itself from Eurostar by operating from Stratford International station, rather than the congested St. Pancras. Uber is also aiming to make its new rail service even more practical: tickets can be booked directly via the Uber app, which already includes cabs, bicycles, boats and even helicopters.
Uber Trains is planning a fleet of 10 high-speed trains, and as many daily round-trips, with a competitive fare strategy ranging between Economy and Business classes to rejuvenate and energize the rail travel experience across the Channel.
However, many constraints, notably budgetary, still stand between the project and reality. Uber will also have to find a supplier capable of providing the trainsets within this tight timeframe. To be continued…