Talgo Is Developing a High-Speed Train for Several European Rail Networks

Cross-Border Rail Service Talgo Is Developing a High-Speed Train for Several European Rail Networks

2026-10-13 From Dipl.-Ing. (FH) Michael Richter | Translated by AI 2 min Reading Time

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With the BasqTrain 35 project, Talgo aims to facilitate the use of high-speed trains across national borders. The company has earmarked 105 million euros ($119.7 million) for development—including modular drive systems and more efficient traction systems.

With BasqTrain 35, Talgo aims to develop a new generation of high-speed trains. Modular propulsion technology is intended to facilitate their use on various European rail networks.(Image: Talgo) — With BasqTrain 35, Talgo aims to develop a new generation of high-speed trains. Modular propulsion technology is intended to facilitate their use on various European rail networks.
(Image: Talgo)

A high-speed train that can be deployed in various European markets could reduce the development costs associated with country-specific variants. This is the goal of the BasqTrain 35 project, led by Talgo. The Spanish rail vehicle manufacturer, based in Las Rozas near Madrid, is focusing on a new generation of trains featuring modular propulsion technology. The initiative aims to address the technical fragmentation of the European rail market, which, according to the project partners, hinders cross-border operations and increases manufacturing costs.

Investments totaling 105 million euros are planned for the three-year project. Of that amount, 78 million euros ($88.92 million) are to be allocated to research and development. Talgo presented the project on October 5, 2026, together with representatives from Basque politics and participating companies.

Drive Technology Is Intended to Reduce Weight and Energy Consumption

Ingeteam plays a key technical role. The company is contributing power electronics, control technology, and energy management. The goal is to develop solutions for distributed traction systems as well as new control and monitoring functions. The partners aim to reduce energy consumption and weight, make better use of the available installation space, and simplify maintenance.

Talgo also plans to focus on manufacturing processes, the use of artificial intelligence, and comfort and accessibility. Digital condition monitoring is intended to lay the groundwork for predictive maintenance. The announcement does not yet specify any measurable improvements or concrete technical details.

European Engagement Remains a Development Goal

Transportation companies would be interested in a platform that can be deployed across multiple networks with minimal customization. However, whether BasqTrain 35 offers this advantage will only become clear once the specific vehicle design and future deployment options are known.

The announcement does not specify which countries and routes are planned first. Details regarding maximum speed, supported power and train control systems, and a date for the start of operations are also missing. The three-year project duration should therefore not be equated with a guaranteed availability for passenger service.

The project is part of the Basque industrial plan, Euskadi 2030. According to the organizers, Talgo will involve twelve Basque companies, including ten small and medium-sized enterprises. Also participating are the industry association MAFEX and research institutions, with CEIT playing a leading role. The project is expected to create more than 140 highly skilled jobs in the region.

On March 31, BYD put the first major Sky Rail line outside of China into operation with Line 17 on the outskirts of the metropolis of Sao Paulo. (Image:BYD)

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