Amtrak’s New High-Speed Trains Ready for Spring Launch on Northeast Corridor

Amtrak is preparing to launch its high-speed Acela trains, reaching 180 mph, this spring. The $2.4 billion fleet promises faster, safer, and more comfortable travel for passengers. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

New Milestones for Amtrak’s Acela Trains

Amtrak confirmed that its NextGen Acela trains are on track for a spring 2025 debut. After extensive qualification testing, results will soon be submitted to the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). Manufacturer Alstom and Amtrak collaborated on rigorous safety trials, including 900 test runs spanning over 90,000 miles on the Northeast Corridor.

In January, one train reached 150 mph during tests at Mercer County’s “raceway.” This corridor segment has been critical for evaluating high-speed performance. FRA spokesperson Dan Griffin noted that Amtrak’s upcoming submission marks a significant step toward introducing the fastest trains in the United States.

Enhanced Passenger Experience with Amtrak’s Upgrades

The new 11-car trains accommodate 380 passengers, offering 70% more capacity than the current fleet. Economy passengers will enjoy more legroom than most airlines, while first-class travelers will benefit from even greater comfort. The Acela fleet upgrade reflects Amtrak’s commitment to addressing modern commuter demands.

Amtrak began planning these replacements in 2014, as existing trains neared 25 years of service. By spring 2025, passengers will experience an efficient, comfortable ride on America’s busiest rail corridor. The rollout heralds a new era of rail travel, offering travelers faster speeds and superior service.

Source: www.masstransitmag.com

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed:

Don’t miss…Testing of the new hydrogen train successfully completed: a step toward sustainable rail transport