WASHINGTON, D.C. – Amtrak’s long-anticipated NextGen Acela high-speed trains will officially enter service on Aug. 28, ushering in what the company calls “a new standard for American train travel.”
Connecting the Northeast Corridor between Washington, D.C., New York City, and Boston, the rollout will feature 28 brand-new trainsets entering service through 2027. The new fleet will offer 27% more seats per departure and expanded weekday and weekend schedules.
“NextGen Acela is more than a new train — it’s an evolution of travel,” said Amtrak President Roger Harris. “In just a few weeks, history will be made with the debut of NextGen Acela.”
American-Built with Union Labor
The NextGen Acela fleet was assembled at Alstom’s facility in Hornell, N.Y. by skilled machinists union workers, using components from over 180 suppliers in 29 states. Amtrak says the project has created approximately 15,000 U.S. jobs.
U.S. Rep. Brendan Boyle (D-PA), whose district includes Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station, praised the economic impact:
“These faster, more reliable trains are a win for Philadelphia’s economy, bringing new jobs and more visitors to support our local businesses… I’m proud to have championed record funding for Amtrak.”
Booking and Passenger Experience
Seats on the new Acela can be booked via the Amtrak mobile app, website, or station kiosks, with flexible booking, seat selection, and itinerary management. In the coming weeks, Amtrak will provide more details on how to identify NextGen Acela options when booking.
During the transition, both the current Acela trains and NextGen Acela trains will operate along the corridor.
The new fleet includes several passenger-focused upgrades:
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Free high-speed, 5G-enabled Wi-Fi
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Individual power outlets and reading lights at each seat
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Modernized interiors with increased seating capacity
Phased Rollout Through 2027
At launch, five trainsets will enter service. Additional trains will join the fleet gradually, with all 28 new trains scheduled to be in operation by 2027. The phased introduction will allow Amtrak to broaden travel opportunities and increase capacity on one of the busiest rail corridors in the U.S.
As the launch date nears, Amtrak encourages customers to check its platforms for updates and to plan early for travel aboard the new NextGen Acela.
First Service Date: August 28, 2025
Initial Routes: Washington, D.C. – New York City – Boston
Fleet Goal: 28 trains in service by 2027
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