FRANCE: Between April 14 and 17, the first pre-series unit of SNCF's order for 80 new-generation TGV Duplex trainsets undertook endurance testing at up to 320 km/h between Tourcoing and Benestroff, using LGVs Nord, Interconnexion and Est.
Known as DASYE (Duplex ASYnchrone ERTMS), the Series 700 sets are similar to the earlier Series 200 TGV Duplex sets which have now been running for 13 years, but modified to meet the TSIs. The trains are fitted with asynchronous motors similar to those used in the TGV POS power cars and have ERTMS on-board equipment.
The new sets are expected to operate services to the south of France, and later to Spain via the Perpignan - Figueres link due to open in 2009. They also will be used on LGV Rhin - Rhône.
