High Speed ​​Train Excitement Between Lisbon and Madrid: Spanish Renfe Pushed the Button for Portugal

The big step that those who love traveling by train in the Iberian Peninsula have been waiting for a long time is finally becoming concrete. Spain's national railway company, Renfe, has officially started the approval process for 30 trains to operate on high-speed lines in Portugal. This move, which will redefine rail transportation on both sides of the border, is a move to sit at the table early for future services.

Special Fleet Compatible with Rail Clearance

The trains to be used in the field are not ordinary models; Talgo 106 and 107 series. The biggest advantage of these vehicles is that they have a wheel system that automatically adapts to different rail widths. As Spanish Minister of Transport Óscar Puente noted, these trains are perfect for the region, as part of the Portuguese network uses standard Iberian rail gauge.

In fact, this certification process, which was originally planned for France, was shifted directly to Portugal and the fleet was increased from 10 to 30 trains. Of course, it's not just about putting the train on the line; A technology investment of approximately 20 million euros will be made to the fleet so that it can adapt to Portugal's signaling and security infrastructure.

Which Lines Open and When?

Renfe has its sights set directly on two critical routes: Vigo – Porto and Lisbon – Madrid.

The calendar works differently in the two countries:

Spain: Aims to complete the connection to its border by 2030.

Porto – Border Line: On the Portuguese side, this stage is planned to be completed in 2032.

Lisbon – Madrid Connection: The target date for the fully integrated connection of the entire line is 2034.

Competition in the Market Is Intensifying

Renfe's move is not a coincidence. Portuguese state railways CP is not idle either; It has opened its tender for 12 sets of high-speed trains (plus 8 options) and French Alstom and Spanish Talgo are in the race. Moreover, the Portuguese government approved the budget to purchase 6 more trains, especially for use in international flights. A serious and passenger-friendly railway competition awaits us between the two countries in the next few years.

Source: Eco.pt (ECO News, 19 August 2026), Expansión, Europa Press