Fact Check: The Trans-European Transport Network regulation mandates trains to travel at least 160 km/h.

Fact Check: "The Trans-European Transport Network regulation mandates trains to travel at least 160 km/h."

What We Know

The Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) is a policy framework established by the European Union aimed at developing a coherent and efficient transport infrastructure across Europe. According to the European Commission, the TEN-T policy mandates that by 2040, passenger railway lines on the core and extended core network must support trains traveling at speeds of 160 km/h or faster. This requirement is part of broader efforts to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of transport systems within the EU.

The TEN-T regulation, specifically Regulation (EU) 2024/1679, outlines various infrastructure requirements to ensure high-quality transport services. Among these, the speed requirement for passenger trains is a critical component aimed at improving connectivity and reducing travel times across major urban nodes in Europe (European Parliament).

Analysis

The claim that the TEN-T regulation mandates trains to travel at least 160 km/h is substantiated by multiple reliable sources. The European Commission explicitly states that the infrastructure requirements for the TEN-T network include a provision for passenger trains to operate at speeds of 160 km/h or more by 2040 (European Commission). This is further corroborated by the European Parliament, which emphasizes that this speed should become the norm for passenger trains on the TEN-T network.

Additionally, the PDF revision of the TEN-T guidelines reiterates this requirement, confirming that the minimum speed for passenger trains is set at 160 km/h. This aligns with the overarching goals of the TEN-T policy to modernize rail infrastructure and improve the efficiency of transport across Europe.

The sources cited are credible and authoritative, coming from official EU institutions, which lend significant weight to the accuracy of the information presented. There is no conflicting evidence from reputable sources that challenges the claim regarding the speed mandate.

Conclusion

Verdict: True
The claim that the Trans-European Transport Network regulation mandates trains to travel at least 160 km/h is accurate. The TEN-T policy clearly specifies this requirement as part of its infrastructure guidelines, aimed at enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of rail transport across Europe by the year 2040.

Fact Check: The Trans-European Transport Network regulation mandates trains to travel at least 160 km/h.