Renfe Operadora, Spain's national railway company, is a global leader in passenger and freight transportation, renowned for its extensive high-speed network (AVE), its commitment to sustainable mobility, and its expanding international footprint. As a key player in shaping the future of rail, Renfe brings over 80 years of experience and innovation to the forefront of the transportation sector. Renfe is at the vanguard of high-speed rail, operating one of the most extensive and modern networks in the world. Its High Speed Railway (AVE) service has revolutionized long-distance travel in Spain, connecting major cities at 300 km/h. This commitment to efficiency and punctuality has positioned Renfe as a benchmark for high-speed rail operators globally.
The year 2023 marked a historic high for the company, with a total of 523.2 million passengers transported in Spain. This figure was overwhelmingly driven by Public Service Obligation (PSO) routes, such as commuter and regional lines, which accounted for 492.4 million passengers. Commercial services, including high-speed AVE trains, carried 30.8 million passengers during the same period. This upward trend has continued, with Renfe transporting a record 277.4 million passengers in the first half of 2025, representing a 3% increase over the first half of 2024. This success is underpinned by a continuous focus on customer experience, digitalization, and the integration of new technologies to enhance service quality and accessibility.
Renfe's activities are organized into five main business areas through its subsidiary companies: Renfe Viajeros (Passengers), Renfe MercancĂas (Freight), Renfe IngenierĂa y Mantenimiento (Rolling Stock Engineering and Maintenance), Renfe Alquiler de Material Ferroviario (Rolling Stock Leasing), and Renfe Proyectos Internacionales (International Projects). This structure allows for efficient management and specialized expertise across all facets of its operations.
Beyond its domestic success, Renfe has a constantly expanding international presence, exporting its operational expertise and technical knowledge to projects across the globe. Internationalization is a cornerstone of the company's strategy. Its most notable international ventures include, among others:
Sustainability is at the core of Renfe's corporate strategy. The company is firmly committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, actively promoting rail as the most sustainable alternative. In 2024, Renfe received the highest score for its sustainable performance in the transport sector, a testament to its ongoing efforts in decarbonization, energy efficiency, and the use of renewable energy. Additionally, as a forward-thinking operator, Renfe is dedicated to innovation and the development of smart mobility solutions. The company is actively exploring advancements in areas such as predictive maintenance, artificial intelligence, and big data to optimize operations and deliver a seamless travel experience for its customers.