Alstom and AMTRAK unveil the interior of Acela high-speed trains

photo: Alstom/Linkedin/Alstom and AMTRAK unveil the interior of Acela high-speed trains

AMTRAK, the U.S. passenger railroad company, with its supplier Alstom, unveiled the interior of the Acela high-speed trains that will run on the Northeast Corridor (NEC). The trains have an increased level of comfort, technology, safety, and innovation. The Acela will be part of Amtrak's most sustainable train fleet to date.

"Between the sleek design of their interiors, state-of-the-art technology, sustainable amenities, and innovative safety features, our new Acela trains will help revolutionize American train travel," said Amtrak President & CEO Stephen Gardner. "Thanks to Senator Schumer's strong leadership and commitment to improving high-speed rail and Amtrak service in the New York area and throughout the nation, and the hard work of Alstom, Amtrak employees, and our other partners, travelers will experience improved, modern, and smoother service on the Northeast Corridor and provide this country with the type of modern train travel we deserve when these trains are ready for service next year.

Acela trains are manufactured by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers in Hornell, N.Y., with 95 % of the components made in America, sourced from 250 suppliers in 27 states. The colors of the first and business classes are distinct. First Class is painted red and has more space for passenger comfort, as well as adjustable personal tables that one can raise and lower.

Business Class is painted blue and has 378 seats with USB ports, adjustable reading lights, a streamlined overhead luggage compartment, tray tables, free Wi-Fi, an advanced seat reservation system, an in-flight information system, and wing headrests.

The dining car will offer a wide variety of self-service food and beverages and have a standing area with thigh rests, electrical outlets for charging, digital information screens, and separate bins for trash and waste.

Amtrak and Alstom contracted to supply 28 trains to replace the existing fleet of 20 Acela Express trains in August 2016. The trains run on the 730-kilometer NEC Boston-New York-Washington route.

Due to technical glitches and supply chain issues related to Covid-19, the commissioning of the fleet got delayed until early spring 2022 from a previously planned fall 2021.