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# Train Drivers Warned of AVE Fire Risks Months Ago
- URL: https://barna.news/train-drivers-warned-of-ave-fire-risks/
- Published: 2026-10-15T11:12:22.000Z
- Updated: 2026-10-15T11:30:08.000Z
- Description: Drivers flagged overheating and brake faults in Alstom S100 model long before fire broke out between Barcelona and Madrid.
- Author: Barna.News
- Tags: Transport

## Warnings Issued Over S100 Model

Train drivers raised formal concerns months ago about the safety of the Alstom S100 high-speed train, the same model that caught fire on the Madrid–Barcelona line, according to union sources and reports published Thursday 15 October 2026\. The Spanish Railway Drivers' Union (Semaf) confirmed it had issued formal complaints in June about recurring mechanical issues, including risks of overheating.

> We already warned about the risks of overheating in different parts of the train due to various causes,

said Semaf representatives, who sent multiple emails to Renfe management. They said officials acknowledged the reports but no practical changes were made.

## Recurring Mechanical Failures

Drivers reported persistent problems with the S100’s motors, noting that trains frequently operated with at least one of four motors disabled due to breakdowns. This reduces electric braking capacity, forcing heavier reliance on traditional brakes, which increases friction and heat. A lack of onboard temperature sensors was also highlighted. Monitoring depends on trackside detectors, limiting real-time prevention. Drivers noted that even after maintenance, trains quickly developed overheating issues. The line itself, designated 050 and linking Madrid, Barcelona, and the French border, has numerous temporary speed restrictions (LTVs). Frequent braking due to these restrictions adds strain, increasing the risk of overheating in the train’s running gear.

## Renfe’s Response and Ongoing Investigation

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Renfe stated it has no record of systematic faults in the S100 series related to overheating risks. The company maintains that the train involved was up to date with all scheduled maintenance under the current plan, as confirmed in official records. An internal investigation is ongoing, coordinated with technical teams and relevant organisations. The company has not commented further. Meanwhile, union sources refuse to make additional statements while the probe continues.

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*Primary sources:* [*boe.es*](https://www.boe.es/diario%5Fboe/txt.php?id=BOE-B-2002-89021&ref=barna.news)*,* [*grupo.renfe.com*](https://grupo.renfe.com/es/en/discover-renfe/our-trains/s-100?ref=barna.news)*. Reported by elnacional.cat, elmundo.es, 20minutos.es, marca.com, europesays.com, elperiodicodeceuta.es, La Razón Cataluña, El Nacional.*

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