The train is the backbone of internal mobility in many countries . While Europe boasts excellent international rail connections, the rise of low-cost short-haul flights has diminished the role of this iconic mode of transport. However, even with some operators still offering daytime and nighttime connections across the continent, a new player seeks to not only provide an attractive alternative for travel but also challenge airlines directly. This new venture is called Nox.
Launched in June 2023, Nox is a German startup aiming to redefine long-distance travel by offering a comfortable , sustainable , and mainly private night train experience as an alternative to flying. Founded by two veterans of the railway sector, Nox’s mission is to transform the nighttime train journey from a romanticized concept into a vital component of international transportation in Europe.
Changing the Game: The New Cabin Concept. Nox aims to replace short-haul flights with night train journeys tailored for both business travelers and tourists. The standout feature of Nox trains is their proposed model of private cabins, which contrasts sharply with traditional night trains and the inconveniences associated with flying, such as airport time.
Each Nox cabin will be private and spacious, measuring two meters in length, with three distinct categories available:
- Individual Loft : Designed for solo travelers.
- Double Loft : A cozy space with a convertible bunk for couples.
- Double View : Features a second-level bed, seating, and panoramic windows for stunning views.
In addition to these innovative sleeping arrangements, Nox will offer food , beverage options, and accommodations for bicycles . To stay environmentally friendly, the startup plans to recycle and refurbish retired trains to create a modern cabin experience.
Ambitious Destinations. Nox plans to commence operations in 2027, with ambitious plans to launch around 30 routes initially, expanding to over 100 European cities eventually. Key destinations include major cities such as Barcelona , Paris , Amsterdam , Budapest , Rome , and Warsaw . Nox aims to provide central-to-central-city connections, an advantage that flying cannot match.
The company envisions a maximum travel distance of 1,200 kilometers per route, allowing for optimal travel times of around 12 hours.
The Pricing Challenge. A crucial aspect of Nox’s proposition is pricing: starting from €79 for an individual room and €149 for a double room per night. Although these prices are competitive, questions remain regarding their realism. According to the German Aerospace Center, low-cost airlines charged an average of €79.33 for flights ranging between 500 and 1,500 kilometers in 2024. This alignment with Nox’s pricing strategy is promising but warrants caution.
Critics suggest that the €79 price tag may only be an introductory offer, with projections indicating that the average nightly price might exceed €100 . According to calculations by the organization Back on Track, an average occupancy of 75% with 500 seats could lead to revenues of €27,000 per route, leaving a deficit of around €9,000 for operational costs.
Nox is Not Alone. While several night train services operate in Europe, Nox’s focus on privacy sets it apart. Apart from Nox, movements are afoot to revive and promote nighttime rail travel. Organizations like Back on Track advocate for this mode of transport as a strategy to potentially reduce up to 3% of Europe’s contribution to climate change by replacing short- and medium-haul flights with trains.
This concerted effort emphasizes the importance of reviving nighttime train journeys not merely as a matter of convenience but as a crucial component in terms of environmental sustainability.
The ambitious initiative by Nox highlights an evolving landscape in European transportation, where nighttime trains can reclaim a competitive stance against airplanes while offering comfort and privacy. As travel habits change and environmental concerns grow, Nox stands as a promising venture to reshape perception and use of trains in Europe. There’s a bright future ahead for those who wish to travel while leaving only a small carbon footprint behind.