France's new high speed trains unveiled

The new model of trains à grande vitesse (TGV) due to start running in the second half of 2025 have been unveiled by manufacturer Alstom and the SNCF.

The trains have longer, narrower noses than existing models for better aerodynamics, and are meant to use 20% less electricity for the same speed.

Energy savings also come from painting the trains white, with the idea that it will reflect summer sun and keep in winter warmth.

Read more: Strong public support for new TGV lines in south-west France

However, the colour choice did not go down well with all future passengers, many of whom have taken to social media and radio call-in programmes to express their discontent.

Some pointed out, for example, that the white TGV trains used in Spain quickly looked dirty.

Late for the Olympics

Delivery of the trains is a year behind schedule – they were meant to be ready for the Olympics.

The delays are reportedly due to problems with an innovative emergency power system from battery maker SAFT.

The trains will have nine passenger wagons, compared to eight on the present models, and accommodate up to 740 passengers.

The SNCF promises that the interior of the new carriages, which have not yet been displayed, will be more spacious and comfortable than existing ones.

It ordered 115 of the new trains for €3.5billion in 2018, and expects them to last 50 years.