Fact Check: "The Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) regulation mandates train speeds of at least 160 km/h."
What We Know
The Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) is a European Union initiative aimed at developing a comprehensive transport infrastructure across member states. According to the European Commission, the TEN-T policy is designed to ensure efficient and high-quality transport systems, which include railways, roads, and waterways. A significant aspect of the TEN-T policy, particularly following its revision in 2024, is the requirement for passenger railway lines on the core and extended core networks to support trains traveling at speeds of at least 160 km/h by 2040 (European Commission, PDF TEN-T revision).
This regulation is part of a broader effort to enhance the efficiency of rail transport, reduce travel times, and promote sustainable transport modes across Europe. The TEN-T policy also emphasizes the importance of integrating various transport modes to facilitate seamless travel and logistics (European Commission).
Analysis
The claim that the TEN-T regulation mandates train speeds of at least 160 km/h is supported by multiple credible sources. The European Commission explicitly states that by 2040, the infrastructure on the core and extended core networks must accommodate trains traveling at speeds of 160 km/h or faster. This requirement is crucial for improving the efficiency and competitiveness of rail transport within the EU.
Additionally, the PDF document on TEN-T revision corroborates this information, indicating that the speed requirement for passenger lines is set at 160 km/h, with minor adjustments in interpretation regarding design speed across rail sections. This reinforces the reliability of the information, as it comes from official EU documentation.
Moreover, an article from White Research highlights that the revamped TEN-T regulations specifically introduce the minimum speed requirement for trains, further supporting the claim. The sources used are credible, as they originate from official EU publications and reputable research organizations, which are less likely to present biased information.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) regulation mandates train speeds of at least 160 km/h is accurate. The evidence from multiple credible sources confirms that this requirement is part of the TEN-T policy aimed at enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of rail transport across Europe.
