Valencia rail modernization sparks political controversy over used trains

Political opposition groups in Valencia, including the PP, Compromís, and Vox, have criticized Spanish Minister of Transport Óscar Puente following the announcement to modernize the Valencia commuter rail network using used trains.

The Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility announced that 41 Civia Series 465 train units will be transferred from Madrid to Valencia to increase capacity on electrified lines C-1, C-2, and C-6 by 30%. These units will progressively replace the existing Series 447 and Series 464 fleets.

Critics argue that the decision to send trains that have been in service for 14 to 23 years is an attempt to present second-hand equipment as a major modernization effort. The PP has labeled the move as treating Valencian citizens as “second-class” and has demanded the full execution of the regional commuter rail plan. While the PSPV has defended the move, stating the trains are in “perfect working condition,” opponents maintain that the transfer represents a temporary solution for a network that requires deeper investment and new manufacturing rather than repurposed equipment from the capital.