The Brazilian rail network was once a benchmark in South America, having been the main means of interstate travel for citizens in the first half of the 20th century. After its golden years, rail transportation fell into decline and lost relevance in the country, which currently relies on the air and road sectors to get around. However, this could change with the long-awaited bullet train between São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, which could finally come off the drawing board.
The project was first mooted in 2007, and since then has generated skepticism among the population due to the delay in delivery. But now, work on Brazil’s first high-speed train is set to begin and promises to shorten the journey between Rio and São Paulo to just over an hour. Will São Paulo’s beach soon be Copacabana?
SP-Rio bullet train to stop in four cities
The SP-Rio bullet train is expected to travel 417 kilometers between the two capitals, with a maximum speed of 320 km/h. As a result, it will be possible to reach the Marvelous City in just 1 hour and 45 minutes, almost as fast as traveling by plane.
In addition to the capitals, the route includes stops in São José dos Campos (SP) and Volta Redonda (RJ), with the possibility of expanding from São Paulo to Campinas. In an interview with Exame, the CEO of TAV Brasil, Bernardo Figueiredo, said that the ticket for the Rio de Janeiro/São Paulo stretch will cost R$500. Trips to intermediate stops will cost half the price, R$250.
When will we be able to travel on the high-speed train?
According to TAV Brasil, the company responsible for building and operating the line, construction should begin in 2028. If the schedule is maintained, Brazil’s first high-speed train should be inaugurated in 2032. This ambitious project will cost around R$60 billion, all of which will come from the private sector.
In other words, in a few years it will be possible to make a weekend getaway to the Marvelous City without getting stuck in traffic! In the meantime, keep an eye on Secret Rio de Janeiro to find out which attractions you’ll be visiting when you can board Brazil’s first bullet train.
