Eurostar has awarded NOMAD Digital, the specialist provider of connectivity solutions to the rail industry, the contracts to supply onboard wi-fi connectivity and state-of-the-art infotainment for its existing fleet of high speed trains.

The decision follows a rigorous, competitive procurement process in which NOMAD emerged as the clear winner.

Over the next three years, Eurostar is making a £700 million investment in its fleet.

This includes the complete overhaul and refurbishment of the existing fleet as well as the purchase of ten new e320 trainsets from Siemens.

This programme of investment will ensure that Eurostar will be able to expand its operations and provide its passengers with the best possible travel experience and service in a competitive environment across its entire fleet.

When the Eurostar refurbished trains and the new e320 trains come into operation in 2013 and 2014 respectively, customers will have access to high speed broadband internet on board.

Passengers will also be able to view and/or download pre-loaded entertainment/infotainment to their own devices via a Secure Wireless LAN.

Nick Mercer, commercial director at Eurostar, said: “We are very pleased to be working with NOMAD and are confident that their wi-fi and infotainment solutions will significantly enhance the onboard travel experience and deliver our customers a high quality broadband service.

“Access to a high speed internet and quality infotainment is increasingly important to passengers and will ensure that whether they are travelling for business or leisure, they get the most out of their journey.

“In a world of on-rail competition providing the optimal digital experience will be key to our success.”

The quality of the NOMAD technology is such that passengers will enjoy a high speed connection to the internet at all times throughout their journey, a seamless switchover at international borders and connectivity wherever the customer is seated and whenever it is required.

In addition to providing connectivity solutions and infotainment the contracts will also cover the provision of spares and maintenance (for five years) as well as monitoring and multilingual service support to customers.

Alexander Eriksen, chief executive at NOMAD, said: “We are delighted to have been selected for provision of the wi-fi and infotainment solution for the Eurostar fleet.

“This contract is very strategic to NOMAD representing its entry into both the high speed rail and French markets.

“We look forward to working with such a prestigious company as Eurostar and delivering a high quality broadband experience to its customers.”