RENNES, June 14, 2025
Train Travel Surges in Rennes, France
Commuters in the rennes periphery are increasingly ditching thier cars for trains, leading to a massive surge in ridership over the past few years.
- Train travel in the Rennes area saw 2.7 million trips in 2023.
- Ridership on peri-urban stations increased by 34% in just four years.
- TER subscriptions have soared over 40% since 2019.
Are more peopel in rennes, France, choosing to travel by train? Absolutely! Data reveals a significant shift as thousands of Rennes periphery residents now make the daily journey to work in the Breton capital by rail, with a notable surge in commuters opting for trains over cars.
In 2023, peri-urban stations in Rennes recorded 2.7 million trips. This represents a ample 34% increase in just four years. Stations in the 1st, 2nd, and even 3rd “crowns” of Rennes experienced a surge during peak hours compared to 2015.The rise was especially pronounced in Bruz (+115%), Noyal-Acigné (+99%), and Montauban-de-Bretagne (+98%).
New Commuting Habits
Nathalie, who travels from Châteaubourg three to four times a week, appreciates the convenience. “It is less tiring and we no longer ask ourselves the question of parking for the car,” she says. Sandrine,a regular traveler from Vitré,adds,”We can do something else at the same time,it’s for me the time to read.”
Reader question: What activities do Rennes commuters enjoy during their train journeys? Do they read, work, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery?
The trend is also driven by environmental considerations. According to calculations by the Ecological Transition Agency (ADEME), train travel pollutes eight times less than driving. This advantage attracts many households, who are moving to the outskirts to find larger and more affordable housing.
Did you know? The ADEME calculates that train travel produces eight times less pollution than traveling by car. This makes rail a more environmentally amiable option for commuters.
Subscription Explosion
As a direct result of this popularity, TER subscriptions on the Rennes railway network have skyrocketed by over 40% since 2019, reaching over 15,000 subscribers today. Brittany has experienced the most significant growth in train ridership compared to other regions nationally. The Rennes-vitré, Rennes-Montfort, and Rennes-Châteaubourg lines see the highest usage.
The Challenge of Success
Though, the rapid growth has created challenges. infrastructure hasn’t kept pace with demand, and certain lines regularly become saturated during peak hours. Although the “2TMV” system, launched in September 2023, added 24 extra trains per day, it’s still insufficient.
Looking ahead, the region plans to double the TER service by 2040 as part of the RER Breton project, necessitating major investments, particularly in Rennes station. The construction of an additional platform is under consideration.
Enhancing the Rennes Train Experience
As train travel continues to surge in popularity in rennes, it’s not just about getting from point A to point B. The rennes railway is evolving to provide a more complete and enriching experience for its growing ridership.
The “2TMV” system, introduced in response to growing demand, offered some relief, but the need for further improvements is clear. The RER Breton project, with an aim to double TER services by 2040, signals notable future advancements for the Rennes train network. This includes infrastructural changes, which may impact the traveler’s experience.
To optimize the commuter experience,the upcoming infrastructure improvements include several key aspects. expanding platforms and increasing train frequency are critical to managing higher passenger volumes. Upgrades to existing stations, and potentially new stations, will also provide additional amenities.
Better Amenities, Better Journeys
Modernizing the Rennes railway is about more than just increasing capacity. It’s about creating a more appealing transit experience for everyone. These are some amenities that will enhance the train experience.
- Enhanced Wi-Fi and Charging Stations: Ensuring commuters can stay connected and their devices powered throughout their journey.
- Improved Seating Comfort and Accessibility: Modernizing the fleet to be more comfortable and accessible for all passengers.
- Digital Information Displays: Providing real-time updates on train schedules,delays,and platform information. Improved signage.
- Increased Safety and Security: Implementing modern surveillance systems and increased personnel, for a safer, cleaner journey.
- On-board Services: Potential expansions of services that include on-board Wi-Fi, spaces dedicated to work, and perhaps even snack and beverage options, enhancing the overall comfort and functionality of the train journeys.
These improvements directly address expressed needs, ensuring train travel remains an attractive option for existing and potential users. Furthermore, a positive travel environment can encourage more people to opt for public transport, easing traffic woes, benefitting the environment, and ultimately improving the quality of life for residents of Rennes.
The Socioeconomic impact
The evolution of the Rennes train network’s infrastructure has profound socioeconomic implications. As the Rennes periphery expands, the accessibility of the train system will influence this expansion. This, in turn, shapes urban development and promotes a more interconnected, and environmentally conscious, society.
How does enhanced public transport shape urban growth? Increased train ridership fosters both economic and community development, reducing congestion, providing affordable transit options, and supporting a more inclusive environment. Investing in the Rennes railway system is an investment in the city’s future.
case study: Consider the impact on businesses near train stations. Increased foot traffic can boost commerce, supporting local entrepreneurs and creating new job opportunities. More importantly, convenient access to public transport allows both locals and tourists to visit different parts of the city [[1]].
As Nathalie and Sandrine, the regular travelers, noted, their trips offer a chance to read or unwind.Expanding the network, improving amenities, and ensuring reliable service contributes to the overall appeal of train travel, making it a preferred choice for a growing number of commuters. This shift, from car to train, is key to the city’s sustainable development.
What are the benefits of choosing the train over driving? Choosing the train over driving brings significant improvements to the environment and eases daily commutes while minimizing congestion. Upgrading the Rennes rail infrastructure boosts both the economy and the quality of life for its residents.
The ongoing enhancements on the Rennes railway system reflect a commitment to smarter, sustainable mobility. As Rennes continues to grow, the train journey, more than just a commute, is evolving into an integral aspect of the city’s progressive identity.
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