After years of delays, Amtrak’s NextGen Acela high-speed trains are set to debut on August 28 along the Northeast Corridor between Washington, New York, and Boston. The new trainsets will increase seating capacity by 27% compared to current models, with each seat featuring individual power outlets, reading lights, and winged headrests for comfort.
The NextGen Acela trains can reach a top speed of 160 miles per hour, 10 miles per hour faster than their predecessors. The new trains also boast free high-speed Wi-Fi, a tilt system for a smoother ride, and advanced technology to enhance passenger experience.
Although the maximum speed of the NextGen Acela is slower than some international trains, Amtrak’s President Roger Harris says it represents a “fundamentally better” travel experience for Americans. The new trains were originally planned for 2022 but faced numerous delays before their scheduled introduction this month.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/08/07/travel/amtrak-nextgen-acela-trains-debut-date