posted on 14th Nov 2026 15:17
On 12 November 2026, Alstom announced that it will submit its Avelia Stream high-speed train for Portugal’s high-speed rail tender, "offering the country a solution that combines proven technology, high performance and a high-quality passenger experience with in-depth knowledge of the Portuguese railway system and a firm commitment to the country."
Avelia Stream is the evolution of the Pendolino platform, and has a strong international track record, with more than 500 trains delivered to 12 operators in 14 countries. The latest international operators to choose this model include Virgin in the United Kingdom and Italo in Italy.
The Avelia Stream proposed for Portugal will run on the new HSL being built between Porto and Lisbon at the maximum operating speed of 300 km/h. Avelia Stream will incorporate the technologies required to operate on Portuguese infrastructure. Its design, with traction distributed throughout the train, optimises the passenger area and allows for different interior configurations, with either 2 + 2 or 2 + 1 seating. Its architecture and larger glazed area ensure an enhanced travel experience.
In its reference configuration of seven cars and 202 m, Avelia Stream can accommodate more than 500 passengers, and its flexible design also allows to accommodate other passenger amenities, such as different solutions for catering.
Alstom’s proposal is also founded on an in-depth knowledge of the Portuguese railway sector: "Present in Portugal for more than 30 years, the company has supported the development of the country’s rail mobility for decades. This track record, which includes 27 years of Alfa Pendular operations since it entered service in 1999, gives Alstom first-hand knowledge of the specific characteristics of the Portuguese network and the needs of its operators and passengers."
“Our ambition goes far beyond supplying a train. We want to support Portugal in developing its new high-speed rail network with a solution tailored to its needs and backed by a lasting commitment. We have the technology, the experience and the knowledge of the country, and we want to continue investing and developing capabilities in Portugal to contribute to the future of its railway,” said David Torres, Managing Director of Alstom Portugal.