Equipment will offer 27% more seats per departure
Amtrak will begin running its NextGen Acela high-speed trains on Aug. 28. The equipment connects the Northeast Corridor between Washington, DC, New York City and Boston.
The launch introduces:
- More trains: 28 new trains entering service through 2027, beginning with five this month
- More seats: 27% more seats per departure
- More service: Expanded weekday and weekend schedules
Roger Harris, president, said, “NextGen Acela is more than a new train — it’s an evolution of travel.” In just a few weeks, he said, “history will be made with the debut of NextGen Acela as we launch a new standard for American train travel.”
As the official launch date approaches, said Amtrak, customers should look for more information from the line about how to locate and select NextGen Acela train options. In the coming months, Amtrak will be operating both the current Acela equipment and the NextGen Acela trains as the new trains transition into the fleet. The new trains, said Amtrak, provide an “elevated experience” with features that include free, high-speed 5G-enabled WiFi, as well as individual power outlets and reading lights.
Five new train sets will be in service initially, with more trains joining the fleet through 2027. NextGen Acela, according to Amtrak, is a key component of the line’s broader fleet modernization plan, which includes:
- New Amtrak Airo trains debuting on the Amtrak Cascades, Northeast Regional, and East Coast routes
- New, more efficient long-distance locomotives
- Upgraded interiors in coaches, dining cars, sleepers, and sightseer lounges — featuring new seat cushions, upholstery, lighting and finishes
