NextGen Acela Trains Debut, Offering 27% More Seating and 160 MPH Speeds on Northeast Corridor

Washington D.C. – Amtrak's new NextGen Acela trains officially commenced service on August 28, 2025, marking a significant upgrade to high-speed rail travel along the Northeast Corridor. These advanced trains, manufactured by Alstom, are designed to enhance reliability, increase capacity, and improve the overall passenger experience between Washington D.C., New York City, and Boston. The launch is a key part of a broader initiative to modernize American travel infrastructure.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced the debut, stating, "Announcing the NextGen Acela! These are brand new beautiful trains delivered by @USDOT and @Amtrak will: increase reliability, lower ticket costs, improve Amtrak profitability." He added that this initiative aligns with "POTUS’ vision to Make Travel Great again." While the tweet mentioned lower ticket costs, Amtrak has indicated that fares for the new trains will remain consistent with current Acela pricing.

The new Acela fleet, part of Alstom's Avelia Liberty product line, can reach top speeds of 160 miles per hour, an increase of 10 mph over the previous generation. Each trainset offers 27% more seating capacity, allowing for expanded weekday and weekend schedules to meet growing demand. Passenger amenities include free high-speed 5G-enabled Wi-Fi, individual USB ports, power outlets, reading lights, and a redesigned cafe car.

Manufactured by American labor at Alstom’s facility in Hornell, New York, the project has significantly boosted domestic manufacturing. The production involved components from over 180 suppliers across 29 states, creating an estimated 15,000 U.S. jobs. Amtrak President Roger Harris emphasized the significance, stating, “Acela is synonymous with American high-speed trains, and today marks a new era of next-generation service.”

Five of the 28 new trains are initially entering service, with the full fleet expected to be operational by 2027. The new trains feature an advanced "tilt system" for a smoother and quieter ride, even at high speeds. This modernization effort by Amtrak aims to build on recent ridership gains and address the need for updated equipment on the nation's busiest rail corridor.