What is the maximum operating speed of the Eurostar e320?

The Eurostar e320 has a maximum operating speed of 320 km/h. Also designated British Rail Class 374, it is a 16-car electric multiple-unit train built by Siemens Mobility as part of the Velaro family for Eurostar international services.

Passenger service began in November 2015. Unlike Eurostar’s older e300 fleet, the e320 was designed to operate beyond the traditional London–Paris and London–Brussels routes, including services toward destinations in the Netherlands and Germany. Its multisystem electrical and signalling equipment allows it to work across several national railway systems.

The number in “e320” refers to the train’s intended top speed in kilometres per hour, not its usual speed on every route. Actual speeds depend on infrastructure, signalling, traffic and national operating limits. On High Speed 1 in Britain and other dedicated high-speed lines, the train can approach its 320 km/h capability, while tunnel approaches, conventional lines and station areas require lower speeds.