Amtrak launched its highly anticipated Amtrak NextGen Acela trains on 28 August 2025, racing between Washington, DC, New York City and Boston at top speeds of 160mph (around 272kmph).
While slower than European counterparts, the sleek new trains – the fastest in the US – have been labelled a game-changer for the East Coast cities, allowing travellers to go between Boston South Station and Washington Union Station within four hours compared to seven hours’ driving time.
The Amtrak NextGen Acela is the first to service the Northeast Corridor since the route was announced nine years ago and after the US-made premium trains debuted in 2000.
Five trains will initially be available on the route with all 28 NextGen Acelas expected to be in service by 2027.
The premium trains will transport 80 more passengers (27% more seats per departure) on an expanded weekday and weekend schedule with First Class and Business Class cars.
Carriages feature upgraded seats, bigger windows, faster 5G Wi-Fi, individual charging outlets and reading lights and touchless toilets.
The Cafe Acela car has a grab-and-go food bar, while Business Class passengers will receive cart service.
NextGen Acela trains are tagged as ‘NextGen’ on the Amtrak website and at stations for travellers to easily identify the option when booking select services.
Amtrak President Roger Harris said: “Acela is synonymous with American high-speed trains, and today marks a new era of next-generation service. On behalf of everyone at Amtrak, I’m proud to welcome you aboard NextGen Acela. The future of high-speed rail starts now.”
Amtrak recently relaunched its Mardi Gras Service, connecting the Carnival capitals of New Orleans and Mobile for the first time since Hurricane Katrina.
For more info, head to amtrak.com
