SPAIN’s national operator Renfe will replace Avlo single-class low-cost trains operating on the Madrid - Barcelona high-speed line on September 8 with multi-class S-103 AVE trains, offering the same frequency, schedule, and competitive prices.
Customers who have already purchased Avlo tickets for travel after September 7 will be transferred to the new AVE services under the same travel conditions.
Renfe says the upgrade to AVE trains follows its decision to withdraw its Avlo class S-106 trains from the corridor. Renfe says the AVE product is better adapted to the characteristics of the route and the needs of corporate travellers, as it offers improved comfort thanks to wider seats and a significant increase in space.
Renfe will also reintroduce additional services which it says are highly valued by passengers, such as the cafeteria, on-board dining, and a quiet coach. Passengers will also have access to premium services such as club lounges.
Some Spanish media outlets reported problems with Renfe’s class S-102 trains, claiming that these have also been withdrawn due to alleged technical issues. However, Renfe issued a statement on August 29 refuting these claims.
“The S-102 series was used occasionally for the Avlo service on this corridor during the month of August,” Renfe said. “Renfe denies this information and clarifies that the decision to operate the AVE service exclusively with S-103 trains is based on efficiency and utilisation criteria, as well as the desire to adapt the service to the needs of corporate travellers and unify the commercial offering on this corridor.
“Regarding the S-102s, no anomalies have been detected, and their circulation and operation is being carried out with full safety guarantees, so they will operate in other corridors.”
However, Renfe was forced in July to temporarily withdraw its fleet of five class S-106 trains operating Avlo low-cost services on the Madrid - Barcelona high-speed line, following the discovery of cracks in the frames of motor bogies beneath the power cars. The trains were returned to service following repairs and no problems were discovered in other trains of this type.
