New NextGen High-Speed Acela Trains Debut in August
Now, after years of delays, Amtrak will debut its new, even faster, NextGen Acela trains on August 28.
Amtrak
In a statement, Amtrak President Roger Harris said: "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 new trains can reach a maximum speed of 160 miles per hour, which is 10 miles per hour faster than the current Acela trains. They are also larger, with 27% more seats per departure. Free, high-speed Wi-Fi, individual power outlets, and reading lights are standard.
We've been working on something fast, sleek, and seriously next level. ?
Get your first fresh look at the new NextGen Acela—and trust us, you'll want to see this through to the end. There's a surprise waiting… pic.twitter.com/pyZfmelJ8O — Amtrak (@Amtrak) August 7, 2025
Amtrak notes in its statement that the fleet of new trains was assembled in New York State.
In a video posted to social media, Amtrak Executive Vice President Laura Mason said that the new trains are a "fundamentally better experience than anything Americans have been able to travel on to date in this country."
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