Amtrak Unveils a Sneak Peek of Its New Train Fleet

Just over a year after announcing plans to invest in a modern fleet, Amtrak has now provided the first look at the interiors and exteriors of these new trains.

In response to significant customer demand for an enhanced rail travel experience in the U.S., the new Amtrak Airo trains are set to debut in 2026. They will come equipped with many improvements over the previous models, such as roomier seats with plenty of legroom, adjustable headrests, seatback tablet holders, and expansive windows for breathtaking views of the landscape. Additional upgrades will include a revamped café car with self-service options, touchless restroom controls, and dedicated power outlets and USB ports for travelers, along with Wi-Fi, which is already available on numerous Amtrak trains.

The new trains will also enhance accessibility for all passengers, featuring lifts for travelers with reduced mobility, accessible restrooms and dining cars, as well as a specialized sound system for those using hearing aids. With these improvements and the promise of reduced delays (Amtrak aims to decrease travel times with the new trains reaching speeds of 125 miles per hour), the company expects to attract over 1.5 million additional riders each year.

In addition to increased comfort, the new trains will emit 90 percent less pollution. This updated fleet, which will include Amtrak's first hybrid-electric powered cars, aligns with the company’s commitment to fostering a more sustainable and pleasant travel experience for its passengers.

The new trains will primarily run along the Northeast Corridor, various state-supported routes, and the Palmetto line connecting New York to Miami. Other routes they will eventually serve include Empire Service, Virginia Service, Keystone Service, Downeaster, Cascades, Maple Leaf, New Haven/Springfield Service, Carolinian, Pennsylvanian, Vermonter, Ethan Allen Express, and Adirondack. Some of the current rolling stock on these routes has been in service since 1971, making the arrival of the new train sets highly anticipated.

The Federal Rail Administration has allocated nearly $4.3 billion to Amtrak for the new trains, which is part of a larger investment in the nation’s rail system that encompasses new Acela trains, upgrades to infrastructure, service enhancements, and improvements to stations.

Siemens is producing the Amtrak Airo trains in California.

Reporting contributed by Caitlin Morton.