The Cool Down
Reporter shares eye-opening video from newly unveiled US high-speed train: 'Inc…
On TikTok, a reporter gave a sneak peek inside Amtrak's new Acela trains — the first new fleet the company has launched in 25 years.
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Amtrak Debuts NextGen Acela: Faster Trains, Enhanced Passenger Experience
BOSTON, MA – Amtrak has officially unveiled its new NextGen Acela trains, marking the first significant fleet upgrade in 25 years for the popular Northeast Corridor route. A CBS Boston reporter provided an exclusive look inside the state-of-the-art trains, showcasing a range of enhanced features designed to significantly improve the passenger experience for commuters and travelers alike. The new Acela trains boast more spacious seating configurations in both standard and first-class cars, offering increased comfort. Passengers will find individual reading lights and convenient USB charging stations at every seat, catering to modern connectivity needs. Notably, the onboard bathrooms have been substantially enlarged and modernized, addressing a common feedback point from previous models. A new, efficient self-serve cafe has also been introduced, providing diverse dining and beverage options throughout the journey. Roger Harris, President of Amtrak, confirmed during an interview that these advanced trains are technically capable of reaching impressive speeds of up to 160 mph, positioning them as the fastest in the United States. However, he clarified that this maximum speed will not be fully realized for approximately another year. This delay is attributed to existing infrastructure challenges along the Northeast Corridor, which includes sections of tracks dating back to the 1800s and the necessity of the route passing through numerous densely populated communities, which impacts speed limits for safety and operational reasons. Amtrak’s strategic plan involves a complete transition, phasing out its older Acela fleet entirely and replacing them with these NextGen models over the coming year. This means that all future Acela ticket purchases will guarantee travel on the new trains. Ticket pricing will continue to be dynamic and demand-based, mirroring the flexible fare structures commonly observed in airline travel. This comprehensive upgrade is expected to redefine high-speed rail travel in the region, prioritizing passenger comfort, modern amenities, and a gradual enhancement of operational efficiency as infrastructure improvements are made.
