What was the top speed recorded by France’s V150 TGV test train in 2007?

France’s V150 TGV test train recorded a top speed of 574.8 km/h in 2007.

The record run took place on 3 April 2007 on the new LGV Est high-speed line between Paris and Strasbourg. V150 was a specially modified test train rather than an ordinary passenger service. The name referred to the target speed of 150 metres per second, which is about 540 km/h.

The train used two specially prepared power cars and three double-deck TGV cars. Engineers increased the electrical voltage and fitted larger wheels for the attempt, while the train was carefully instrumented to measure performance.

This record should not be confused with the normal operating speed of French TGV services. Passenger trains run much more slowly than the experimental record speed, because everyday service must balance safety, energy use, maintenance, comfort, and timetable reliability.