Trans Europ Express
The "Mistral" began its existence in 1950 as a mostly steam locomotive-hauled "Rapide" (express train) between Paris-Gare de Lyon and Marseille-Saint-Charles. Two years later, in 1952, its route was extended to Nice-Ville. By 1965, when it was integrated into the Trans Europ Express (TEE) system, it had become completely electric locomotive-hauled.