Advancement Towards TEE 2.0: Europe's Night Trains to Unite in 2021 (Revamped)
Get ready for some exciting cross-border night trains, folks! Rail companies from Germany, France, Austria, and Switzerland are cooking up a storm, planning to roll out new connections starting from next year. You heard it right! They're gunning for the Trans Europ Express (TEE) 2.0, a revamp of the historic TEE network that'll link European cities together via high-speed trains and night trains, without the need for massive infrastructure investment.
Brussels is waving its flag too, with potential connections to Barcelona, Berlin, and Warsaw. At the moment, Belgium only offers one night train connection to Vienna, operated by the Austrian railway company ÖBB. However, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, this service has been temporarily suspended.
The original TEE made its debut back in 1957 with a mission to cut down on air travel. While it was popular among businessmen, prices were steep, and seating arrangements were restricted to first class only. Consequently, the TEE went kaput in 1987.
The TEE 2.0 aims to correct these past shortcomings, offering a sustainable, eco-friendly alternative to short-haul flights in Europe. By providing comfortable and convenient overnight journeys, passengers will be enticed to switch from airplanes to rail, reducing overall air traffic and its environmental impact. This move supports European climate goals and encourages greener transportation options.
So buckle up, travelers! European cities are just a train ride away, thanks to TEE 2.0!
In collaboration with their European counterparts, Germany, France, Austria, and Switzerland are aiming to revitalize the Trans Europ Express (TEE) network, incorporating both high-speed and night trains into the transport scheme. This new venture, TEE 2.0, intends to cater to various lifestyles and travel preferences, offering affordable and eco-friendly alternatives to short-haul flights within Europe, thereby minimizing air traffic and contributing to more sustainable financial and transportation practices.
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