Perhaps the fastest passenger trains in the world can travel at a top speed of 188 miles per hour, and are found in France, and are known by what three-word phrase?

France's pioneering high-speed rail service is indeed known by a three-word French phrase that aptly describes its incredible velocity. While commonly understood as "Train à Grande Vitesse," meaning "high-speed train," the abbreviation has also been historically associated with "Très Grande Vitesse," translating to "very high speed." This name perfectly captures the essence of these remarkable locomotives, which routinely transport passengers across the French countryside at impressive speeds, often reaching up to 200 miles per hour on newer lines.

The journey of this iconic train began in the 1960s, with the first commercial service launching in 1981, connecting Paris and Lyon. Interestingly, the initial designs for these trains called for gas turbine propulsion, but the oil crisis of 1973 prompted a pivotal shift to electric power, a decision that has defined their operation ever since. The TGV is not only celebrated for its operational speed but also for its record-breaking capabilities. In 2007, a specially modified TGV train set a world speed record for conventional wheeled trains, reaching an astounding 357.2 miles per hour during a test run.

Beyond its speed, the TGV system has revolutionized travel in France and influenced high-speed rail development worldwide. It boasts an exceptional safety record, having never recorded a passenger fatality in an accident on its dedicated high-speed lines. The network has expanded significantly since its inception, connecting major French cities and extending services to neighboring countries, making rapid and efficient rail travel a cornerstone of European transportation.