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France’s high-speed rail system, the TGV, is marked by significant milestones and innovations. In 1966, the concept of a high-speed train was born with the launch of Project C03, which aimed to create a train capable of operating at speeds exceeding 200 km/h. The first two TGV trainsets were completed by 1978 and, in 1981, the first high-speed line was inaugurated, providing service between Paris and Lyon. The TGV set the world record for the fastest wheeled train, reaching 574.8 km/h (357.2 mi/h) during a test run in 2007.
The TGV has not only revolutionized rail travel in France but also set global benchmarks for speed, reliability, and sustainability. Its development and expansion have been a testament to France’s commitment to innovation and efficiency in transportation.
Full Article: IEEE Vehicular Technology Magazine, Volume 21, Number 1, April 2026
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