French rail operator SNCF this week announced changes to its business offering with the launch of a new ¡®Optimum¡¯ class onboard its high-speed TGV INOUI services throughout France.

The new offering will be introduced in January 2026 and, following a similar move by SNCF subsidiary TGV Lyria, will replace the current Business Premi¨¨re class with two levels of service: Optimum and Optimum Plus.

Optimum tickets will be available at a fixed price, according to a statement from SNCF, and will offer ¡°total ticket flexibility¡±, allowing travellers to exchange or refund their tickets up to 30 minutes after departure without incurring additional charges.

The new travel class will ¡°offer a more consistent and transparent experience,¡± SNCF said. This includes ¡°enhanced¡± services such as access to Grand Voyageur Le Club TGV INOUI lounges at train stations, a ¡°quiet and dedicated¡± space on board with seats that maintain passenger privacy, exclusive entertainment options via the onboard TGV INOUI Portal and a dedicated a customer service team that will offer ¡°rapid and personalised support¡±.

Meanwhile, Optimum Plus will be reserved for TGV INOUI services between Paris and Lyon, with all of the above features as well as an onboard ¡°host¡± and seat-served meals.

Optimum class will be available from Monday to Friday on all trains departing from or arriving in Paris. According to SNCF, booking modifications (exchanges and cancellations) can be made through the TGV INOUI PRO app.