New Overnight Train Services Are Being Introduced on These U.S. Rail Lines

Globally, rail networks are experiencing a revival: New high-speed train connections are emerging in Europe, accelerated train developments are underway in Japan, and Indonesia is set to launch its first high-speed train.

In a similar vein, Amtrak, the United States’ passenger rail service, has announced plans to update its long-distance train fleet with modern replacements, set to debut on 14 overnight routes. This includes the well-known California Zephyr connecting Chicago and San Francisco, Coast Starlight linking Seattle and Los Angeles, Crescent service from New York to New Orleans, Empire Builder from Chicago to Portland, and the Southwest Chief running between Chicago and Los Angeles.

Amtrak board chair Tony Coscia stated, “Acquiring new long-distance train cars will enable Amtrak to enhance and modernize the essential overnight services connecting our nation’s major regions. We aim to introduce trains that boost safety, reliability, accessibility, and efficiency while incorporating features that our customers deem essential for upgrading overnight rail travel in the 21st century.”

Amtrak is evaluating proposals from around 10 manufacturers. The company is also looking into which amenities could enhance the customer experience on long-haul trains. Currently, overnight train options include reclining coach seats, roommettes (two seats converting into bunk beds at night with a scenic window), and bedrooms (featuring a sofa and separate chair that convert to bunk beds, a picture window, plus an in-room restroom and shower).

There is currently no information on when the new train cars will be put into service to replace the existing fleet, which is now 44 years old. Amtrak anticipates that the current long-haul rail cars will “reach the end of their service life within the next decade.”

Amtrak has recently received a financial boost for this initiative from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, a $1 trillion infrastructure legislation passed by Congress and the Biden administration in November 2021 aimed at upgrading the nation’s transportation systems. Of this amount, $66 billion is designated for Amtrak, representing the largest federal investment in the railway service since it was established in 1971.

This initiative is just one of many efforts by Amtrak to modernize its aging infrastructure. The new high-speed Acela Express Fleet, set to connect Boston and Washington, D.C., is expected to commence service later this year. Additionally, in December, Amtrak revealed a first glimpse of its new fleet of short-haul trains, called the Amtrak Airo, which will begin operations in 2026, primarily on the East Coast. Upgrades for the Airo trains will include personal power outlets, USB ports, expansive panoramic windows, and improved Wi-Fi connectivity. They will also reach speeds of up to 125 miles per hour (increased from the previous average of 80 miles per hour).