SNCF (French National Railways) launched in February 2004 a call for tenders for a supply of 330 new train sets for Paris-Ile-de-France region (180 trains and 150 more in option). The amount of the total contract is estimated €3.9 bn. This contract is highly expected as no new rolling stock has been added since 2003 leading to a significant ageing of the fleet.
In parallel, a large refurbishment program has been initiated in 2002 for 150 trains. A second phase is starting in 2006 for 130 trains “comfort” The comfort program includes the visual side, the seats, the lighting system and is estimated €100 million.