This is the new Izy high speed train, that will enter service in 2019. The unit consists of former Eurostar TGV TMST half-trainsets no. 3213 and 3224. This train will replace TGV Réseau no. 4551. Today the 3213/3224 came to Belgium for the first time, sporting its new purple/green/white livery.
Photos by Maarten Schoubben – be sure to check out his pictures on Flickr
The Izy train services by Thalys are a low-cost alternative for travellers between Paris-Nord station and Brussels South station. You pay less compared to a normal Thalys, but you have to take a longer journey time for granted (2h 30m instead of 1h 20m). The Izy trains run over classic lines for a part of the journey.