Uber set to launch new train service that will take on eurostar

Uber is set to forge a partnership with Gemini Trains, one of the companies vying to challenge Eurostar's exclusive operation of the Channel Tunnel. Gemini Trains, led by Labour peer

Lord Berkeley, is among several contenders aiming to disrupt Eurostar's three-decade monopoly on cross-channel services, as reported by City AM. Customers will have the option to book

tickets via the Uber app, and the ride-hailing company's branding will be prominently displayed on Gemini's new trains. The train operator currently intends to acquire 10 newly

designed trains. Its inaugural route will connect London Stratford International with Paris Gare du Nord and Brussels Midi, making a stop at Ebbsfleet International. Other rivals seeking to

dethrone Eurostar include Richard Branson's Virgin Group and Spanish start-up Evolyn. "Innovation and value are at the very heart of what we do so it's really exciting to be

teaming up with Uber," said Adrian Quine, Chief Executive of Gemini. In recent years, Uber has been broadening its travel services in an effort to stay ahead of its competitors in the

ride-hailing market. This expansion has encompassed deals with inter-city trains, coaches, electric bike firm Lime, and even flights on its app. Over the past two years, Uber's train

business in the UK has seen average monthly growth in double digits. Yesterday, Uber Boats by Thames Clippers, the London river bus service, secured £59m in funding from Natwest and

Santander. Uber has likened its collaboration with Gemini to that of Thames Clipper's boats, which have become a familiar sight on the River Thames in London over recent years. Andrew

Brem, Uber's UK chief, commented: "We've seen amazing momentum since we began launching new modes of transport in the UK, and this collaboration with Gemini Trains is our

latest step in how we're helping people get where they want to go." LIKE THIS STORY? WHY NOT SIGN UP TO GET THE LATEST BUSINESS NEWS STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX.