Les dépôts autorails de la SNCF

This book retraces the birth and evolution of French rail depots, in a context profoundly transformed by the SRU law of December 2000. This marked the culmination of a long process of decentralization: for the first time, the regions now had the means to manage the development and operation of the TER. This virtuous dynamic led to massive investment, far greater than had been possible under the previous division of responsibilities between the State, SNCF and local authorities.

In less than a decade, several billion euros were invested in new equipment, turning the provincial railway landscape upside down. The new TERs sported a modern, almost TGV-like look, making people forget the old "michelines" that, paradoxically, the French had long since stopped using.

For the first time, this book offers a complete exploration of the careers of all the French railways' railcar depots. Each depot is presented with its own detailed history, enriched by often unpublished photographs. In addition, technical documents such as bearings and installation plans shed light on the operation of these sites, which are essential to the day-to-day running of regional transport.

A unique insight into the little-known but decisive history of these maintenance centers, which have accompanied, and in some cases preceded, the spectacular renaissance of TER trains in France.