Amtrak’s Next-Generation of High-Speed Trains

At Amtrak, we know the future of the Northeast Corridor (NEC) depends on the investments we make today, which is why we are excited about the upcoming arrival of the next-generation of high-speed rail.

The new trainsets will replace the current Acela Express equipment and begin service in 2021. As part of this multifaceted modernization program, Amtrak is also investing in the infrastructure needed to improve your customer experience onboard the train and in major NEC stations including Washington DC’s Union Station and Moynihan Station in New York.

The Next Generation

This investment will expand and modernize the Acela Express service you’ve come to know, while adding the amenities and ride quality of international high-speed train services. This next-generation of Acela Express will give you a more comfortable and productive travel experience throughout your entire journey. Just a few of the new amenities included are:

Approximately one-third more passenger seating, while preserving spaciousness and comfort

Personal outlets, USB ports and adjustable reading lights at every seat

Enhanced food service options

Improved Wi-Fi access and quality

Exceed the ADA minimum accessibility requirements

Modern interior design

By adding 40% more trainsets than the current Acela Express fleet, we are providing you with more travel options. Upon delivery of the new trainsets, Acela Express service will be offered every half-hour between Washington, D.C. and New York City during peak times, and every hour between New York City and Boston throughout the day. This expanded fleet will give you more departure options during peak travel times.

The new trainsets are among the safest, most reliable and energy efficient in the world. They have a 35-year track record of transporting billions of customers to their destinations safely. In reliability, we anticipate the new trainsets will be at least eight times more reliable than the equipment it replaces, ensuring that we will get you where you need to go on time, every time. Finally, the new trainsets will reduce operating energy consumption by at least 20 percent through a combination of minimal aerodynamic drag and lightweight design.

Alstom Partnership

This is the most significant investment Amtrak has made in its infrastructure and technology in the 45 years of providing passenger rail service to the American public, and it was important to us that these trainsets be “Made in America” as much as possible. For this project, we are pleased to be partnering with Alstom, a leading global provider of innovative systems and equipment in the railway sector. Alstom will be building these new trainsets in New York State, with 95 percent of the trainset’s components being made in America and parts coming from more than 350 suppliers in over 30 U.S. states.

We look forward to having you join us on this journey as we work to revolutionize high-speed passenger rail in the country, support the American economy and continue to provide you with a reliable, smooth and efficient ride as you travel throughout the Northeast. Continue to check back here for more details on the progress of next-generation high-speed rail on the Northeast Corridor.