Amtrak Announces Debut of NextGen Acela High-Speed Trains

Image: New Acela 21 at Washington Union Station (Photo Credit: Amtrak)
Image: New Acela 21 at Washington Union Station (Photo Credit: Amtrak)
Noreen Kompanik
by Noreen Kompanik
Last updated: 12:20 PM ET, Thu August 7, 2025

A new era of high-speed rail is about to begin on August 28.

Customers will be able to travel on Amtrak’s NexGen Acela high-speed train connecting the Northeast Corridor between Washington, D.C., New York City and Boston.

The historic launch introduces 28 brand-new trains entering service through 2027 offering 27 percent more seats per departure and expanded weekday and weekend schedules.

Amtrak President Roger Harris said in a statement, “NextGen Acela is more than a new train – it’s an evolution of travel. In just a few weeks, history will be made with the debut of NextGen Acela as we launch a new standard for American train travel.”

The NextGen Acela fleet was assembled at Alstom’s facility in Hornell, New York using components from over 180 suppliers across 29 states – creating approximately 15,000 U.S. jobs. The new fleet is a key component of Amtrak’s broader fleet modernization plan which includes New Amtrak Airo trains debuting on the Amtrak Cascades, Northeast Regional and East Coast routes with more efficient long-distance locomotives.

Upgraded interiors in coaches, dining cars, sleepers and sightseer lounges feature new seat cushions, upholstery, lighting and finishes. Free high-speed 5G-enabled WiFi, individual power outlets and reading lights assist the savvy traveler in being more productive during their travel experience.

As the official launch date approaches, customers can expect more information from Amtrak regarding locating and selecting the NextGen Acela train options.


For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.

Topics From This Article to Explore

Related Videos

Become A Travel Expert

Upcoming Webinar
World of Luxury Part OneMonday, December 1, 2025
2:00pm Eastern
Luxury Travelers are Seeking Destinations, Experiences, and Inspiration. This year has once again...
Upcoming Webinar
Explore Deep Patagonia with Australis CruisesWednesday, December 3, 2025
2:00pm Eastern
Join Travel Weekly, TravelAge West and TravelPulse for an exclusive look at Australis Cruises, a...
Upcoming Webinar
December AmaWaterways WebinarThursday, December 4, 2025
2:00pm Eastern
Register for this upcoming webinar!  Details coming soon!
Upcoming Webinar
World of Luxury Part OneMonday, December 1, 2025
2:00pm Eastern
Luxury Travelers are Seeking Destinations, Experiences, and Inspiration. This year has once again...
Upcoming Webinar
Explore Deep Patagonia with Australis CruisesWednesday, December 3, 2025
2:00pm Eastern
Join Travel Weekly, TravelAge West and TravelPulse for an exclusive look at Australis Cruises, a...
Upcoming Webinar
December AmaWaterways WebinarThursday, December 4, 2025
2:00pm Eastern
Register for this upcoming webinar!  Details coming soon!

Get To Know Us Better

Agent At Home

Helping leisure selling travel agents successfully manage their at-home business.

Subscribe For Free

Agent Specialization: Group Travel

Laurence Pinckney

Laurence Pinckney

CEO of Zenbiz Travel, LLC

About Me
Agent At Home

Helping leisure selling travel agents successfully manage their at-home business.

Subscribe For Free

Agent Specialization: Group Travel

Laurence Pinckney

Laurence Pinckney

CEO of Zenbiz Travel, LLC

About Me