description Eurostar e300 (Class 373) Overview
The Eurostar e300, also designated Class 373 in the UK, is a high-speed electric multiple unit built by a consortium led by GEC-Alsthom for international services linking London with Paris and Brussels through the Channel Tunnel. The trains entered service in 1994 following the opening of the Channel Tunnel and were designed to operate on three different overhead voltage systems used across Britain, France, and Belgium. The e300 variant has a maximum speed of 300 km/h. The fleet was built to meet specific fire safety and tunnel evacuation requirements.
help Eurostar e300 (Class 373) FAQ
Who manufactured the Eurostar e300, also known as the Class 373?
The Class 373 trains were manufactured by a consortium led by GEC-Alsthom in the early 1990s. These specialized high-speed trains were purpose-built to connect London with Paris and Brussels through the Channel Tunnel.
When did the Eurostar Class 373 begin passenger service?
The Eurostar e300 trains officially entered commercial service in 1994, following the grand opening of the Channel Tunnel. This launch revolutionized international rail travel between the UK and mainland Europe.
How fast can the Eurostar e300 travel?
The Class 373 was designed to operate at high speeds on international routes, originally engineered for a top speed of 300 km/h (186 mph) on the French LGV Nord lines. In the UK, they initially operated at slower speeds before dedicated high-speed tracks were built.
Are the original Eurostar Class 373 trains still in service today?
Most of the original North of London e300 sets have been retired or sold to other operators in recent years. Eurostar has largely replaced them with their newer e320 Siemens Velaro trains to increase passenger capacity.
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