Since responsibility for regional transport was devolved to France’s individual regions in 2002, regional mobility has enjoyed remarkable growth; with regional authorities acting as a driving force, there has been a 20% increase in service provision, whilst passenger numbers are up by 55%. Since 2002 the regions have invested in TER (Regional Express Transport), devoting over 9 billion euros to the purchase of new trains for example. The result of this is a quality service that is highly valued by its passengers, with 84% of customers saying they are happy with TER.

Punctuality is vital to the quality of service experienced by the customer, with an average of around 92% of TER trains running on time. This average has been more or less steady over the last three years and SNCF has now set itself the target of increasing this by one percentage point in comparison with 2013 figures. All those involved in planning and running TER services will have a part to play in achieving this new 93% punctuality goal. Specifically, the gradual introduction of the new RÉGIOLIS and REGIO2N trains will enable the regions to retire their worst-performing trains. These two next-generation trainsets will be rolled out in 2014 and combine the very best in technology and passenger-oriented design.

SNCF is committed to a process of decentralisation offering each French Region greater responsiveness from their local SNCF teams. The process is set to be completed by the end of the year and will result in a 12% increase in productivity over a five-year period. Structural costs will be reduced and services will be better tailored to the specific conditions in each region.

Bolstered by the ambition and investment of the regions, the commitment of SNCF’s 30 000 dedicated TER staff has helped to create a high-quality product serving the interests of communities and boosting travel within each region. New technologies are contributing too, allowing for the development of services that enhance travel and in many cases have become indispensable, such as remote purchase or access to real-time information. A notable example is “TER MOBILE”, an SNCF app aimed at TER customers.

SNCF and 20 French regions have signed an agreement for the performance of TER rail and road services in each area for a total annual sum of 2.3 billion euros.

(Source: SNCF)