Spain’s iconic high-speed rail network is set for a major acceleration, with the government confirming plans to increase maximum AVE speeds to 350 km/h, cutting the journey between Madrid and Barcelona to under two hours for the first time. Transport Minister Óscar Puente announced the initiative earlier this week, calling it a decisive step toward positioning Spain among the world’s fastest rail corridors.
Currently, the 621-kilometer link between Spain’s two largest cities takes 2.5 to 3 hours, as trains are limited to speeds of around 310 km/h on select segments. The upgrade—expected to boost top speeds by approximately 12%—will be made possible through improvements to rail infrastructure, including the installation of new aerodynamic track supports designed to reduce wind resistance by more than 20%.
“We are going on the offensive with high-speed rail,” Puente told Europa Press. “Our goal is 350 km/h, and we will be the second country in the world, after China, to reach this speed.”
Officials emphasize that the enhancements will not compromise safety, instead relying on advanced engineering to optimize airflow and stability. The upgrade aims to solidify Spain’s position as a global leader in efficient, sustainable rail travel—particularly as demand surges between Madrid, Barcelona, and coastal regions.
In addition to speed improvements, Puente confirmed plans for a new AVE station in Parla, roughly 20 km south of Madrid. The stop will streamline travel between Andalusia and Catalonia, eliminating the need for commuters to transfer through the capital’s congested hubs.
The announcement comes amid renewed scrutiny of Spain’s rail network following a recent incident in Madrid in which passengers were stranded on an overheated AVE train. The government hopes the new upgrade will help restore confidence while delivering one of Europe’s fastest rail experiences.
