Rail Europe and Europcar have got together to offer travellers an integrated rail/road solution for visiting all the country’s most popular holiday destinations.

Rail Europe, part of French National Railways (SNCF) and the UK’s largest retailer of European rail travel, specialises in selling Eurostar and the high speed network to destinations in France and beyond. Moreover, a programme of short break holidays in France is on offer through specialist tour operator French Travel Service, a subsidiary of Rail Europe. Both organisations will be involved in this groundbreaking partnership with Europcar, enabling the British traveller to benefit from integrated train-car and hotel-train-car packages. With 53 years of experience, Europcar is the world’s largest car rental company of European origin. Through a network of more than 420 locations all over France, of which 34 are located at major train stations, Europcar offers a countrywide coverage ideally suited to providing a car as you step off the train.

The new deal is effective from now for the whole of 2003 and will operate in destinations such as Paris, Avignon, Nice, Toulouse and many more… The bookings will be made through Rail Europe on 08705 848 848.

Marie Barry, Managing Director for Europcar UK, commented, "This exiting new initiative is expanding the industry’s vision of mobility. By combining Rail Europe’s capability with our car rental expertise, we offer customers greater flexibility in their travel approach with an innovative and cost effective option. "

Rob Mason, MD of Rail Europe added, "It is all about added-value. Fast journey times coupled with convenience are the key to a successful trip. With Europcar, we have created an brand new offer which encompasses both aspects."

Sophie Ammann

Europcar Public Relations Executive

Tel : 07771972803 / 01923811298

E-mail : ammanns@mail.europcar.com

Europcar central reservations can be contacted on 0870 607 5000.

Europcar, the car rental company, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Volkswagen A.G., the largest car manufacturer in Europe and number three worldwide with its VW, Audi, Seat and Skoda brands.

With 2685 world-wide locations in 123 countries and a fleet of more than 117,000 vehicles, Europcar is one of the world’s leading car rental companies. Founded in Paris in 1949, Europcar boasts greater airport coverage in Europe than any other car rental company and is the world’s largest car rental company of European origin.

Europcar is one of the UK’s leading car rental companies, with a fleet of approximately 20,000 vehicles and a network of over 120 stations, servicing 820,000 passengers a year.

Europcar UK provides rental choice from 1 hour to 1 year, with or without a driver, for work or play. We provide a large selection of vehicle makes and models from small economy models and sporty convertibles to large family cars, minibuses and luxurious sedans, as well as vans.

Europcar, you rent a lot more than a car.