Unexpected arrival of the first hybrid AVE train in Águilas

The dual fuel S-730 hybrid was on an assessment run.

Águilas became the envy of other towns and cities in the region, some of whom are still digging tunnels, and others still waiting for financing to be agreed for their high speed links,  as it became the first to welcome the arrival of an AVE, Tren de Alta Velocidad, high speed train on Thursday.

However, this isn´t just any old AVE train, this is the only hybrid ( meaning it can run on diesel and electric) AVE train in the world, a Dual 730 hybrid train, capable of travelling at 250 kph on high speed tracks and 220 on electrified conventional tracks and non-electrified tracks at 180 kph.
This train can run on variable guages and boasts five different sets of safety and control systems and is being manufactured by the consortium of Talgo-Bombardier.

Renfe aims to invest 74 million euros into building 15 of these hybrid trains and this one is currently undergoing testing, this unexpected arrival being a commercial test to assess its performance on the Madrid-Águilas line.

Águilas is enjoying the benefits of  a Talgo train from Madrid this summer, with a special train bringing down weekenders from the capital throughout the summer.

The train leaves Madrid at 15.38 on Friday afternoon and returns on Sunday afternoons at 13.55, offering top value getaways for Madrileneans escaping the summer heat, as well as welcome revenue flowing into the coffers of local businesses over the weekend.