NextGen Acela launches

[williamn]

Amtrak's NextGen Acela launched yesterday (otherwise known as Avelia Liberty). Lots of coverage and videos out there. The interiors look really lovely imho.
I was curious - why are the previous sets being retired when they're still relatively young?

The Independent manages a typically negative British take on things:

"Amtrak's sleek new 160mph tilting Acela trains serving stations on the Northeast Corridor entered service today, but they don't complete the journey any faster than the old trains
Passengers are impressed, nevertheless, with one praising a much-improved ride quality among other plus points."

Amtrak launches new 160mph Acela trains — but they take just as long as the old ones

Acelas run from Washington DC's Union Station to Boston via Philadelphia, New York Penn Station, New Haven, and Providence

www.independent.co.uk

 

[Beebman]

There's quite a few video reviews, this one by the excellent Simply Railway channel shows a trip from Boston to New York Penn in First Class:

It's finally here! After almost FOUR YEARS of delay, the new #Amtrak #Acela finally did its first revenue service out of Boston - Gable was onboard to be part of history (just like with Brightline) of the very first passenger train to hit 160 mph in a commercial service in America. Enjoy! Map realized with Viaduct, more at https://viaduct.world/

• TRIP INFORMATION -

Date: August 2025 Railway company: Amtrak Route : Boston South Station to New York Moynihan Train Hall Time : 3h55 Price : 375$

My current favourite American train channel is Trains Are Awesome and Thom who runs it has made a review of a trip in Business Class from Washington DC to New York:

NextGen Acela. Avelia Liberty. Whatever you call it, it’s August 28th and they’re finally in service!

One thing about the new trains from the various reviews which has impressed me is the 'Grab & Go' self-service food outlet in the Café Car.

 

[williamn]

One thing about the new trains from the various reviews which has impressed me is the 'Grab & Go' self-service food outlet in the Café Car.

A bit like Virgin's shop (though with added self check out), which I think it was shame Avanti did away with.