Transport – Alstom’s Hydrogen Train Fiasco
A 2021 contract between Alstom and SNCF for twelve bi-mode hydrogen trains has turned problematic. The four client regions face significant cost overruns — unit prices reaching €17.3M vs. €10M for a standard train — and disappointing performance, particularly the Cummins fuel cell falling far short of its expected 10,000-hour lifespan. Grand Est wants out and is negotiating to convert its order to conventional trains. Alstom itself is looking to extricate itself from this underperforming niche contract.
Politics – Lobbyists Running in Paris Municipal Elections
Around ten influence professionals appear on the lists of Rachida Dati (LR/Modem) and Pierre-Yves Bournazel (Horizons/Renaissance) for the Paris municipal elections. Notable names include Maud Gatel (ex-TBWA), Nelly Garnier (Havas Paris) on the Dati list, and Marlène Schiappa (ex-minister, now at Tilder) on Bournazel’s. Emmanuel Grégoire’s left-wing list features far fewer lobbyists.
Corporate – Dussopt Tipped for Emeis Chairmanship
The Caisse des dépôts is quietly backing former Labour Minister Olivier Dussopt to succeed Guillaume Pepy as chairman of Emeis (formerly Orpea). Already a board member at CDC Habitat and La Poste, Dussopt is well embedded in the CDC ecosystem. A decision is expected at the AGM on June 23rd.
Defence/Aerospace – Macron’s Space Summit Pushed to September
Originally planned for April, then July, the international space summit has now been pushed to September 2026, with scheduling conflicts — including the ILA Berlin air show — making earlier dates unworkable.
Media – Musical Chairs at RMC
RMC is losing key talent: crime & justice specialist Guillaume Biet is joining TF1, and political journalist Hélène Terzian has moved to France Info. Despite strong ratings — RMC ranked 2nd among radio brands by listening time in January — departures are mounting under director Karim Nedjari.