Amtrak is set to launch a revolution in North American high-speed travel with the advent of a record-breaking version of the fastest train in the country: its NextGen Acela. Rolling out through 2027, larger cars that benefit from an innovative “tilt system” will offer passengers a “smoother, quieter ride” at speeds of up to 257 km per hour, 16 km per hour faster than its predecessor.
Five trains are due to start running initially, with schedules starting on Thursday 28 August 2025, serving the Northeast Corridor between Washington, D.C., New York City, and Boston. A further 27 brand-new trains will be added to schedules through 2027.
“A new standard for American train travel”
“In just a few weeks, history will be made with the debut of NextGen Acela as we launch a new standard for American train travel,” Amtrak’s President, Roger Harris, said in a statement. The passenger experience in any of the 378 Business Class includes free Wi-Fi with faster 5G download and upload speeds, and power outlets and USB ports that are in-built into ergonomic seats with privacy headrests and task lighting.
Tickets are coming at the time of writing, and a press release promises “simple and flexible” booking, with seat selection, itinerary management, and last-minute updates via the Amtrak mobile app, Amtrak website, and station kiosks. The train configuration makes 27% more seats available per departure, as well as operating more weekday and weekend services. On-board, a Café Car, like that found on Eurostar offers food and beverages.
Delays and wider transformation
Despite the fanfare, sadly, the schedule is already running behind. The project underwent delays due to COVID-19 and technical compatibility issues. But press materials boast that the American-built train generated around “15,000 US jobs”, with components supplied by over 180 suppliers across 29 states, according to American Public Transportation Association (APTA) methodology.
Part of a bigger transformation and fleet modernisation project, NextGen Acela will join the ranks of the New Amtrak Airo trains that will operate on Amtrak’s East Coast and Northeast Regional routes, stopping at New York City, Philadelphia, and Baltimore, as well as Cascades – a scenic Pacific Northwest route that visits Seattle and Vancouver.
In addition to the exterior views being beautiful to the eye, “upgraded interiors in Coaches, Dining Cars, Sleepers, and Sightseer Lounges” will feature “new seat cushions, upholstery, lighting, and finishes.” Plus, the overhaul is kinder to the environment, as locomotives are becoming more efficient, Amtrak claims.
