They operate longer distance Transport Express Regional and Intercites services particularly in the areas south and west of Paris, the Paris to Leon line, around Tours, Nantes, Toulouse, Lyon, Dijon, Nevers, Grenoble, Bordeaux and the South Coast of France.

The X 72500 units come in two types: Three sets can be coupled where required The maximum speed is 160 kilometres per hour (99 mph).

Additionally each vehicle also includes a 135 kW (181 hp) Perkins/Mecalte diesel generator for auxiliaries (lighting, air conditioning, door controls, etc..).

The driving position, TGV type centered in the cab, was designed to facilitate the work of the driver.

It also includes elements to enable Driver Only Operation (but the absence of CCTV/mirrors require a second crew member on board) and the ATESS system, a data recorder way more advanced than those fitted to previous stock.