Amtrak has announced that the NextGen Acela service will officially launch on Thursday, 28 August, between Boston and Washington, D.C.
This new generation of high-speed trains will operate along the busy Northeast Corridor, stopping at major cities including New York.
The introduction of the new trains marks a significant step in the modernisation of Amtrak’s fleet, with five new trainsets entering service initially. A total of 28 trains are scheduled to join the fleet in stages through 2027. The expansion will gradually replace the current Acela trains that have been in operation since 2000.
This launch follows a series of delays, with Amtrak and Alstom initially planning to deploy the new fleet by 2021, with full deployment by the end of 2022. However, due to various factors, including testing requirements and manufacturing challenges, the service was postponed.
Each train is expected to offer a 27% increase in seating capacity per departure compared to the current Acela models. Amtrak has also announced expanded schedules for both weekdays and weekends, aiming to provide more frequent options for passengers along the route.
The new trains will include updated passenger facilities. Features include high-speed, 5G-enabled Wi-Fi, personal power outlets, and reading lights.
Customers can book tickets and manage their journeys using the Amtrak mobile app, website, or station kiosks. As the transition progresses, both current and new Acela trains will operate side by side.
The NextGen Acela trains were assembled by Alstom at its facility in Hornell, New York. The project involved components sourced from over 180 suppliers in 29 states, with Amtrak estimating the initiative supported around 15,000 jobs across the country. The work was carried out in collaboration with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers.
This rollout forms one part of Amtrak’s wider fleet investment plan, which includes the introduction of Amtrak Airo trains on other routes such as the Cascades and Northeast Regional services. Other elements of the programme include upgrades to long-distance locomotives and refurbishments across existing coach and sleeper cars, including improved seating, lighting, and interior finishes.
The full NextGen Acela fleet is scheduled to be in service by 2027.
