Amtrak unveils new train cars with plenty for customers to love

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Dan Smith

Amtrak ushers in a new era of modern rail travel. The rail company shared highlights of its new state-of-the-art train called Amtrak Airo, which will run on the Northeast Corridor from North Carolina to New York in 2026. Amtrak spokesperson Jason Abrams said passengers can expect "a new era of modern train travel" on the sleek new trains, which offer what Amtrak calls "a next-level experience." Told.

Amtrak Airo business class seats.Amtrak

At a press conference at New York City's Moynihan Train Hall, Amtrak President Roger Harris said these modern new rail cars will combine "sustainable transportation, world-class design and state-of-the-art equipment." “Amtrak’s movement for progress and change,” he said. A reimagined post office building that houses the Moynihan Train Hall, where New York City's Amtrak trains arrive and depart. The first images of the regional train show the sleek new carriages with ergonomically designed dove gray seats, dark blue adjustable headrests and ample legroom and workspace. The clean, bright contemporary design features both cup and tablet holders on every seat. One new detail of his is particularly noteworthy: Panoramic windows allow passengers to "enjoy the most beautiful views in the country," explains Harris. Another notable addition is the redesigned cafe car, which offers passengers more self-service options and "modern" food. Janet Ho, assistant commissioner of the New York State Department of Transportation, said the state is particularly excited about the introduction of Amtrak Airo, adding, "Better ADA accessibility and enhanced seat amenities." RELATED: All Aboard: Amtrak credit card applications back after 10 months

Amtrak Airo class seats.Amtrak

And in line with New York City's environmental programs, hybrid-engined trains will emit zero emissions while traveling through New York tunnels, she added.

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The new hybrid engine won't be as fast as the new Acela trains rolling out in 2023, which will reach speeds of 160 miles per hour. However, trains with these advanced technologies can travel the entire corridor without switching engines, saving time on long journeys. Electric engines, which are now commonly used, must be replaced by locally required diesels. The new eco-friendly hybrid engine makes this transition seamless, shaving about 25 minutes off the time normally required for an engine swap. RELATED: Amtrak launches $28 million upgrade for sleepers and coaches

Amtrak

New regional train routes include Adirondack, Caronian, Cascade, Downeaster, Empire Service, Ethan Allen Express, Keystone Service, Maple Leaf, New Haven/Springfield Service, Northeast Regional, Palmetto, Pennsylvanian, Vermonter, Includes Virginia Service. California-based Siemens Mobility will build a new fleet of state-of-the-art trains with 83 multi-power trains. Harris said he expects the first cars to be completed by 2025 and rolled out by 2026, with the entire fleet projected to be fully online by 2031. See below for more TPG guides and news about Amtrak.

Additional reporting by Meghna Maharishi.