French train manufacturer Alstom are in talks to introduce Europe's only high-speed double-decker trains through the Channel Tunnel connecting the UK to France.

Alstom CEO Henri Poupart-Lafarge says the new Avelia Horizon fleet could increase capacity and lower fares. 

In an interview with the Financial Times Henri Poupart-Lafarge said: "The double-decker train has a lot of advantages. It's a very high-speed train with the lowest cost per seat and the highest capacity." 

Alstom describes the train as "the world's only double-deck train running at over 300 km/h". It reduces preventive maintenance costs by 30% and weighs less than conventional designs.

The trains reportedly offer up to 35% more capacity than competitors. Alstom claims its lower investment and operational costs could significantly reduce ticket prices.

Broadly accessible, the trains are also equipped with wide doors and are designed to ensure a smooth and safe ride with less noise and vibrations for passengers.  

Hneri Poupart-Lafarge also told the Financial Times that Alstom has already signed a £715 million deal with French private train operator Proxima to provide and maintain 12 double-decker trains.

Additionally, the manufacturer has agreed to supply state-owned French rail operator SNCF with the Avelia Horizon fleet by 2026, following some delays.

Despite discussions about introducing double-decker service on the Eurostar, significant hurdles remain.

Any trains running on Eurostar's service must be approved by the operator, a process that could take years as trains must comply with the Channel Tunnel's strict safety regulations.

Therefore, while these trains won't be introduced in the immediate future, ongoing discussions suggest they may eventually operate on Channel services