TGV Voyages offers the opportunity to explore high-speed train travel in the French countryside through Train Simulator. This version of Train Simulator is a standalone release with limited content. Here's more information about it:
Experience the captivating Ligne Grande Vitesse: Marseille Saint-Charles to Avignon-TGV route in Train Simulator, where you can immerse yourself in the renowned high-speed rail network of France. The route showcases the iconic TGV® Duplex and allows you to witness the breathtaking beauty of the French countryside.
The construction of LGV Méditerranée began in 1996, aiming to establish a dedicated high-speed line spanning over 160 miles, connecting the Southeast of France to the nation's capital, Paris. Starting from Valence on the LGV Rhône-Alpes, the LGV Méditerranée extends through Avignon and Aix-en-Provence, terminating in Marseille.
Operated by SNCF®, the LGV Méditerranée opened in 2001 and is served by TGV Duplex high-speed trains. These trains operate on the 25kV AC catenary system and can reach speeds of up to 320 km/h. The introduction of these revolutionary high-speed trains drastically reduced travel times to the French South coast, making TGVs the primary mode of transportation for journeys within France. These trains cover approximately 750 km (470 miles) in around 3 hours, surpassing the speed of some domestic airlines.
The route features four stations, including the purpose-built Gare de Valence TGV, a unique multi-level station facilitating easy transfers between high-speed and local services. The Gare d'Avignon TGV is known for its proximity to Avignon city center, and the Gare d'Aix-en-Provence TGV offers convenient travel to the northern part of Marseille and Marseille Airport, with regular bus services available. The final station, Marseille-Saint-Charles, is a terminus station originally designed to serve the surrounding area and the French Riviera. Access to this station is provided through the classic French main lines.
The LGV Méditerranée boasts a dynamic landscape, characterized by undulating terrain. It includes steep inclines, declines, and an impressive array of cuttings, tunnels, and viaducts. The longest tunnel on the route stretches over 8 km (5 miles). As the train speeds along the track, passengers can enjoy the stunning scenery of southern France through the upper and lower windows.
To ensure safe operations on this high-speed route with its high capacity, the TVM430 (Transmission Voie-Machine) signalling system is employed. This revolutionary in-cab signalling system is specifically designed for high-speed train operations, as traditional track-side signalling is impractical at such speeds. The TVM430 provides information in the train's cab, guiding the driver on the appropriate speed without relying on conventional track-side equipment.
The package includes the iconic TGV Duplex in SNCF livery, adding to the authenticity and immersion of the Marseille to Avignon high-speed route, spanning 100 km.
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