New Acela Fleet Set to Enter Service in 2021

Written by Andrew Corselli

New Amtrak state-of-the-art, high-speed trainsets are scheduled to enter service on the Northeast Corridor (NEC) in 2021, as Amtrak and Alstom have partnered to introduce the new Acela fleet.

“Amtrak’s new Acela fleet, set to enter service in 2021, continues its progression at Alstom’s facility in Hornell, NY, and the first train, out of 28 trainsets, will be moving to Pueblo, Colo., in mid-February for further testing,” Amtrak said in a press release.

These new trainsets aim to redefine the customer experience with accommodations and amenities such as:

Top speed of 160mph.
Each train will have 386 seats, with “spacious, high-end comfort customers expect, including personal outlets, USB ports and adjustable reading lights at every seat.”
Contemporary food service.
Advanced seat reservation system.
Onboard information system providing real-time information such as location, train speed and conductor announcements.
Accessibility features for people with disabilities.
Spacious restrooms with a 60-inch diameter turning radius.
Streamlined overhead luggage compartment.

In advance of the new fleet entering service, Amtrak released a video highlighting the new trainsets:

“This video shows off the new trains in action, highlighting the dynamic, sleek and modern exteriors that customers can expect to see along the Northeast Corridor,” said Amtrak.