I already wrote an article a while ago to say how much I was impress to see the SNCF (French National Railway Company) embracing social changes and understanding that travel is more than going from A point to a point B.
On top of the usual entertainment devices and tools for travel such as podcasts, PSPs, DVDs… they have developed a service that enable people to find out who is going to be in their train. A kind of modern and legal version of toothing really! Users can create a profile, fill in some basic information and catch up with like-minded people during their journey. I know that sites like Dopplr offer a similar service to people, however when you know how popular and convenient train is in France it definitely makes sense for the SNCF to develop their own platform.
After a successful launch of these new kinds of trains, the SNCF have launched idNight (night trains). Built around the idea that travel is a crucial part of the holidays, idNight enable people to relax at a proper lounge bar or to party with some well known Djs and bands. It is such a great idea re-energizing a dusty brand. You can have a look at the first gig in a SNCF train below, the band is Hocus Pocus.
this is absolutely inspired. think the brits could learn a lot from french when it comes to transport. although, paris needs to get more Vélib for the early morning cycle home after a nuit blanche – there just aren’t enough!