A trip by Ouigo does not provide quite the same feeling as in a classic TGV. “The first fundamental difference is the absence of a bar car. So bring a picnic and water. There are no individual bins either, but one per room and looks like a monster. Only cabin baggage is allowed, under the seat, and power outlets are extra »testifies Juliette Duboc, 34, used to traveling between Paris and Marseille in Ouigo, the brand “low cost” of the SNCF.
Despite these rather spartan conditions, the concept appeals. Since the launch of the service between Marne-la-Vallée (Seine-et-Marne) and the south-east of France, in April 2013, no less than 110 million trips have been made with Ouigo, including 60 million since 2020. The number of destinations served continues to grow, with around fifty to date.
The candy pink and pastel blue trains appeal to low-cost travellers. “One in two travelers pays less than 25 euros and only 15% more than 50 euros”, explains Alain Krakovitch, director of TGV-Intercités at SNCF. Ouigo advances a high occupancy rate, 80% on weekdays, 90% on weekends, and even 95% for Paris-Perpignan in service since March 25. The low-cost does not fill the coffers of the SNCF, but remains “in equilibrium, taking into account current investments”says Jérôme Laffon, director of Ouigo.
Low prices and eco-responsible transport
The maintenance of advantageous prices is explained by night maintenance, more frequent rotation of trains, which cover 700,000 kilometers per year, double that of conventional TGVs, and the optimization of space in cars, as can be seen The travellers. On the other hand, the SNCF ensures that the many options, additional luggage, choice of seat or exchange of tickets, only represent “6% of revenue, compared to 30% for low-cost airlines”.
The success of Ouigo is part of a context of recourse “uninhibited” to the cheapest products, continues Jérôme Laffon. But unlike other sectors, the low-cost train does not create, for the consumer, a guilt dilemma between the low price and the high environmental cost, “because the train is naturally eco-responsible”he says.
SNCF hopes to go from 24 million trips in 2022 to 50 million in 2025, by increasing the offer. In 2025, the service will be equipped with new trains, around fifty in total, compared to 38 today. It will be, like the current trains, vehicles aged fifteen years, completely reorganized and revamped. They will be able to accommodate 653 passengers, against 634, and hooks will be installed there, in order to be able to suspend bicycles. These dedicated spaces, eagerly awaited by cycle tourism enthusiasts, will be a paid option, the price of which has not yet been set. In the car in the middle of the train, where the classic TGVs have a bar, a space for conviviality will be provided, but no catering. You should always bring your picnic and water bottle.