CPA 4000 series trains have been running since 1999. They have covered over 41 million kilometers from north to south of Portugal, carrying 26 million passengers. After 16 years of service, taking advantage of the need for half-life maintenance, we took the opportunity to carry out thorough interior and exterior refurbishment. The refurbishment process, was designed to offer a brand new image of the product and its service, improve passenger comfort, install new technologies and simpler maintenance, into four main areas: Exterior - new colours, livery and signage; Interior - choice of materials, colours and finishes for Comfort and Tourism classes, new lighting system, new seat foams, upholstery and accessories; Toilets and Bars - new design; Signage - new pictograms and signage system for the interior. The refurbishing process aimed to achieve a new image of the product and associated service, improve passenger comfort, integrate new technologies and simplify maintenance processes in four main areas: Exterior, Interior, WC / Bar and Signage.

The exterior redesign aimed to give the service a more modern, dynamic and premium appearance, using a new livery that simplifies application and maintenance. Updated colours improve brand communication and blend with the surrounding landscape, while large CP logos and a lime-green stripe strengthen the operator’s identity. All exterior signage was renewed to make carriage numbers, doors and services easier to identify. Inside, a new pictogram system was created, with clearer carriage identification through large coloured numbers, service information and improved guidance for passengers. Seat numbering was updated, and CP’s identity reinforced with high-quality logo applications at the top of each carriage.

The interior refurbishment introduced higher-quality materials, new colour schemes and redesigned seating for both Comfort and Tourist classes, creating distinct atmospheres and improving overall comfort. New LED lighting, refurbished panels and custom carpets further enhanced the space. The 22-month development process involved close collaboration between Almadesign, EMEF and other stakeholders, aligning requirements, user research, prototyping and industrialisation. Both the toilets and the PRM version were redesigned to feel more spacious, cleaner and easier to maintain, using integrated panels, improved lighting and carefully chosen finishes. The Bar area was also completely renewed, with updated equipment, new furniture and natural materials, offering a more functional, modern and welcoming environment.