Europe is preparing to welcome a new low-cost railway operator, GoVolta, which promises to revolutionize travel on the continent on trains. Dubbed the “easyJet of trains”, the company plans to start operations in September 2025, offering tickets from 10 euros.
GoVolta, founded by entrepreneurs and , aims to connect several European cities. The first route will connect Amsterdam to Berlin, with an expected duration of approximately eight hours, using old rolling stock and conventional railway lines. Although this travel time is longer than that offered by traditional operators, such as Nederlandse Spoorwegen and Deutsche Bahn, the company is betting on competitive prices to attract passengers.
In addition to the connection between Amsterdam and Berlin, GoVolta plans to expand its services to other cities, including Copenhagen, Basel and Paris. By 2027, the operator intends to launch new international connections, such as Bruges, in Belgium, and Hamburg and Frankfurt, in Germany. The Amsterdam-Frankfurt and Amsterdam-Hamburg routes will have two daily trips, while the Amsterdam-Bruges connection will be an extension of the existing route to Paris.
Challenges and postponements
Initially, the start of operations was scheduled for April 2025; however, due to operational challenges related to complex European rail systems, the launch was postponed until September of the same year. The integration of different infrastructures and regulations in different European countries represents a significant obstacle for new operators in the railway sector.
Competition in the European rail market
GoVolta’s entry into the European market is part of a context of growing competition between low-cost rail operators. Companies such as Ouigo, a subsidiary of the French SNCF, and Avlo, of the Spanish Renfe, already operate on several European routes, offering train tickets at reduced prices and competing directly with low-cost airlines.
This trend reflects a change in consumer behavior, who are looking for more sustainable and economical transport alternatives. Train travel presents itself as a viable option, especially on medium-distance journeys, contributing to reducing the carbon footprint associated with the transport sector.
Impact on the Portuguese market
Although, at an initial stage, GoVolta’s operations do not include routes that pass through Portugal, the entry of new low-cost operators into the European market could positively influence the national railway sector. Increasing competition and demand for more accessible transport services can encourage investments in infrastructure and the creation of new international connections, benefiting Portuguese passengers.
Future perspectives
The expansion of low-cost rail operators in Europe represents an opportunity to democratize access to train travel, making it more accessible to a wide range of passengers. However, it will be crucial to ensure that price reductions do not compromise service quality and passenger safety.
GoVolta’s entry into the European market could serve as a catalyst for greater integration of European railway networks, promoting interconnectivity between countries and facilitating the mobility of citizens on the continent.
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