After several years of delays, Amtrak is expected to debut its new, redesigned Acela high-speed trains in Philadelphia later this month, writes Mike D’Onofrio for AXIOS Philadelphia.
The trains are expected to debut on Thursday, August 28, at 30th Street Station, and the rest of the Boston to Washington D.C. corridor.
Amtrak’s NextGen Acela upgrades will result in faster speeds, more seats, and new amenities.
The new trains’ speeds will max out at 160 mph, a 10 mph increase from the older trains and there will be a 27 percent increase in passenger capacity.
Riders will also be able to benefit from free, high-speed Wi-Fi, individual power outlets, and reading lights.
“NextGen Acela is more than a new train—it’s an evolution of travel,” Amtrak President Roger Harris said in a statement.
The rollout will begin with five new trains debuting later this month, with another 23 being rolled out through 2027.
According to Jessica Puckett for Conde Nast Traveler, Amtrak will be operating both the old and new train sets until all 28 NextGen Acelas are rolled out.
Details on how to purchase tickets will be released soon.
Read more about the debut of the new NextGen Acelas in Philly and the Northeast corridor at AXIOS Philadelphia.
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