Amtrak orders 800+ railcars for long-distance routes

Amtrak long-distance fleet replacement has moved into procurement. The railroad says it is the largest such program in that fleet’s history. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The company has issued a formal request for proposals. It covers more than 800 new passenger railcars. Those cars will serve 14 long-distance routes across the United States.

Amtrak long-distance fleet replacement enters procurement

Amtrak expects interested manufacturers to submit bids in the coming years. Meanwhile, a selected supplier is anticipated by the end of 2027, according to Amtrak. That effort targets equipment much of which is nearing 50 years of service.

The initiative is being developed in coordination with the Federal Railroad Administration. Also, it is intended to improve reliability and the passenger experience.

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Standardized fleet plan for 14 long-distance routes

Under the plan, Amtrak will move to a standardized single-level fleet. That fleet will serve all long-distance routes. It will replace the current mix of single- and bi-level cars. In addition, Railway Supply reported on that strategy in earlier coverage. Officials have said the strategy is designed to reduce program risk and streamline operations. It is also intended to broaden competition among carbuilders.

Amtrak’s long-distance services connect major cities with smaller and rural communities nationwide. At the same time, they play a key role in the national transportation network.

Broader passenger rail modernization effort

Separately, the new fleet procurement is part of a broader systemwide modernization effort. It also includes the rollout of new locomotives and high-speed Acela trainsets. The upcoming Airo fleet for short- and mid-distance routes is part of it as well.

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