Portugal is making a bold move in enhancing its transport and tourist infrastructure with the €746 million deal to buy 117 new electric multiple units (EMUs). The new fleet will operate on the Lisbon, Porto, and regional networks, with the initial aim of optimizing travel efficiency and boosting passenger comfort. This investment into new rail technology will not only enhance the entire rail journey for passengers but will also do much for Portugal’s long-term sustainability and tourism development.
One of the primary benefits of the new electric trains is the improved travel efficiency they offer to passengers. The EMUs are designed to provide faster, more reliable journeys, which is crucial for increasing passenger satisfaction and encouraging more people to use rail transport. By replacing older, less efficient trains with these state-of-the-art units, Portugal will significantly reduce travel times between major cities like Lisbon and Porto, as well as within regional areas, making it easier for both locals and tourists to travel.
With the improved efficiency of these trains, passengers will experience shorter waiting times, faster boarding procedures, and on-time arrivals. These improvements are expected to boost demand for rail travel, particularly among business travelers and tourists, who will find the faster and more reliable service a convenient and attractive option.
In addition to increased efficiency, the new electric trains prioritize passenger comfort with modern interiors and upgraded amenities. The EMUs are designed to offer a luxurious travel experience, featuring spacious seating, air conditioning, and large windows that provide passengers with scenic views of Portugal’s landscapes as they travel.
The focus on comfort is not limited to interior design. Accessibility has also been a key consideration in the design of these new trains. The upgraded facilities for people with reduced mobility ensure that all passengers, regardless of physical ability, can enjoy a comfortable and inclusive travel experience. The trains will also feature dedicated luggage spaces, offering more convenience for passengers with large bags or equipment, particularly for tourists carrying extra luggage on their trips.
With personalized comfort features such as adjustable seating, luxurious finishes, and interactive technology to enhance the travel experience, the new electric trains are designed to elevate rail travel to the level of modern luxury.
The new electric trains are energy-efficient, contributing to Portugal’s sustainable travel goals. By replacing older diesel trains, the new fleet will help reduce carbon emissions and support Portugal’s commitment to green mobility. With the transition to electric-powered trains, the country can move toward a more environmentally friendly transportation model, while simultaneously improving passenger experience and travel efficiency. The reduced energy consumption will also translate into lower operational costs, benefiting both tourists and local commuters who can enjoy affordable and eco-conscious travel options.
As Portugal seeks to become a global leader in sustainable tourism, the integration of electric trains into the rail network plays a crucial role in offering tourists an eco-friendly travel experience while preserving the country’s natural beauty for future generations. The new electric multiple units will serve as an example of how modern tourism and sustainable transport can work together to create a greener, more responsible travel model.
The new electric trains are poised to significantly enhance the tourism experience in Portugal by providing efficient, comfortable, and reliable travel for tourists traveling between major cities and tourist destinations. With 12 million international visitors to the country annually, Portugal’s tourism sector relies heavily on the efficiency and accessibility of its transportation infrastructure. These new electric multiple units will provide tourists with easy access to popular destinations like Lisbon, Porto, Sintra, Cascais, and Albufeira, all while reducing travel time and offering a superior on-board experience.
For tourists visiting Portugal’s UNESCO sites like the Tower of Belém or the Douro Valley, the ability to travel comfortably on modern, energy-efficient trains will enhance their overall travel experience. With direct links to airport terminals, train stations, and historic landmarks, these new trains will facilitate the seamless travel experience that tourists crave, ensuring they can spend more time exploring Portugal’s treasures rather than dealing with logistical challenges.
The investment in the new electric multiple units (EMUs) is a significant driver of local economic growth, particularly in rural areas. The construction of a new maintenance facility in Guifões, near Porto, will create direct and indirect jobs, helping to strengthen the local economy. An estimated 300 direct jobs and 1,500 indirect jobs will result from the new maintenance center, contributing to job creation in technical fields such as engineering, mechanics, and operations. These jobs will support regional development, creating a ripple effect that benefits local businesses and contributes to socioeconomic prosperity in the northern and central regions of Portugal.
Additionally, the European Union’s funding—through the €117.6 million contribution—reflects the region’s commitment to investing in sustainable infrastructure across Europe. This investment in transportation infrastructure ensures that Portugal remains competitive in attracting international tourism, enhancing its status as a premier destination for luxury travelers and eco-conscious visitors alike.
The €746 million investment in new electric multiple units marks a new era for train travel and tourism in Portugal. With the country expanding its tourism industry and transport network, these improvements to the rail network will be essential in making Portugal a top European tourist destination in the future.
Passenger comfort, efficiency of travel and sustainability are at the core of this endeavor, which will induce domestic travelers as well as foreign visitors to opt for train travel as their method of choice. With new electric trains, Portugal is set to further enhance the tourist experience and emerge as a leading sustainable travel destination in years to come.
