Amtrak is ushering in a new era of modern train travel.
The railroad company just shared the highlights of their newest, most state-of-the-art trains, called Amtrak Airo, which will launch on the Northeast Corridor from North Carolina to New York in 2026.
Amtrak spokesman Jason Abrams said of the sleek new trains that will offer what Amtrak calls an “enhanced experience”, passengers can look forward to “a new era of train travel” modern”.
Speaking at a news conference at New York City’s Moynihan Railway Station, Amtrak President Roger Harris said the new state-of-the-art rail cars combine “sustainable transportation, world-class design and world-class design.” and modern amenities” is “a move towards progress and change for Amtrak” including a reimagined post office building that houses the Moynihan Railroad Lobby, where Amtrak trains in New York City are located. departure and arrival.
First images of regional trains show shiny new carriages with ergonomically designed pigeon gray seats with dark blue adjustable headrests, plenty of leg room and workspace . The bright, clean, modern design also offers cup and tablet holders in each seat. One new detail is particularly noteworthy: Panoramic windows allow passengers to “enjoy some of the best views in the country,” explains Harris.
Another notable addition is the redesigned cafe carriages, where passengers will have more self-service options as well as “contemporary” dining offerings.
Janet Ho, assistant commissioner of the New York Department of Transportation, said the state is particularly excited about the introduction of Amtrak Airo, saying it will “help revitalize the passenger experience both in New York and on the road. nationwide with better ADA accessibility as well as enhanced seating comfort.”
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And in keeping with New York City’s environmental programs, hybrid trains will have zero emissions when traveling through New York’s tunnels, she added.
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New hybrid engines won’t be as fast new Acela ship launched in 2023 will reach speeds of 160 mph. However, these technologically advanced trains will save time on longer journeys as they can go through entire corridors without having to switch engines — a necessity nowadays to switch from engines electricity is often used to diesel needed in more rural areas.
The new eco-friendly hybrids will help smooth this transition and shorten the time it takes to change engines by about 25 minutes.
Related: Amtrak begins $28 million upgrade for sleeper vans and coaches
Routes for new regional trains include Adirondack, Carolinian, Cascades, Downeaster, Empire Service, Ethan Allen Express, Keystone Service, Maple Leaf, New Haven/Springfield Service, Northeast regional lines, Palmetto, Pennsylvanian, Vermonter and Virginia.
California-based Siemens Mobility will produce a new fleet of 83 modern multi-purpose trains. Harris says the first vehicle will be completed by 2025 in time to hit the market in 2026, with the entire fleet expected to be fully online by 2031.
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Additional reporting by Meghna Maharishi.
