Amtrak’s upgraded Acela train fleet will debut on August 28, with five new trains set to begin service initially. The new trains feature roomier passenger cars, larger tray tables, and USB ports in both classes. The cafe cars now have self-select and check-out options.
The upgrades include more legroom, adjustable reading lights, and streamlined overhead luggage compartments. The trains are also capable of reaching speeds up to 160 mph, a 10 mph increase from the current models.
Chair of the Rail Users Network, Richard Rudolph, says the new trains are long overdue, as the oldest equipment has reached its useful life. He notes that while the US is catching up on high-speed rail development, it still lags behind countries like Europe, Japan, and China.
The upgraded fleet will increase passenger capacity by 27%, with each trainset able to carry up to 386 passengers. Alstom is manufacturing a total of 28 train sets, creating around 15,000 jobs through the Acela contract.
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Source: https://wtop.com/business-finance/2025/08/amtraks-new-acela-trains-hit-the-rails-august-28