Avelia Liberty high-speed train. Photo: © Alstom SA, 2016 © Meconopsis by Trimaran.
Amtrak has signed a contract for Alstom to design and build 28 new high-speed trains to replace the equipment on Amtrak’s Acela Express service on the Northeast Corridor (NEC) between Boston and Washington D.C. The contract is part of $2.45 billion that will be invested on the NEC as part of a modernization program to renew and expand the Acela Express service.
Amtrak and Alstom also signed a long-term contract under which Alstom will provide Amtrak with long-term technical support and supply spare components and parts for the maintenance of the new trainsets.
“Amtrak is taking the necessary actions to keep our customers, the Northeast region and the American economy moving forward,” stated Joe Boardman, Amtrak president & CEO. “These trainsets and the modernization and improvement of infrastructure will provide our customers with the mobility and experience of the future.”
The train ordered by Amtrak is Avelia Liberty and will be able to carry up to 33 percent more passengers than the current Acela trains. The trainset configuration includes a power car and nine passenger cars, with the possibility of three more being added if demand grows.
The train can travel at speeds up to 186 mph, but will initially operate at a maximum speed of 160 mph. Each power car meets the latest FRA guidelines, including the equipment of a Crash Energy Management (CEM) system.
“Alstom’s high speed trains, which we have branded Avelia, are the most advanced, reliable and safest trains in the world. Avelia Liberty will not only provide premium passenger experience but will also provide greater energy efficiency and lower lifecycle costs,” stated Jerome Wallut, senior vice president, Alstom North America. “This award is an illustration of the success of Alstom’s strategy of customer proximity. We would like to thank Amtrak for its vote of confidence and remain fully dedicated to making this project a success.”
Each trainset will have amenities that can be upgraded, such as improved Wi-Fi access, personal outlets, USB ports and adjustable reading lights at every seat, enhanced food service and a smoother, more reliable ride.
This procurement comes as demand for Acela Express service increases, with many trains selling out during peak travel periods. The new trainsets will allow for increased service, including half-hourly service between Washington D.C. and New York City during peak hours, and hourly service between New York City and Boston.
“As more people rely on Amtrak, we need modernized equipment and infrastructure to keep the region moving,” said Anthony Coscia, chairman of the Amtrak Board of Directors. “These trainsets will build on the popularity and demand of the current Acela Express and move this company into the future as a leader in providing world-class transportation.”
Amtrak is funding the trainsets and infrastructure improvements through the FRA’s Railroad Rehabilitation & Improvement Financing program that will be repaid through growth in NEC revenues.
The trainsets will be manufactured at Alstom’s Hornell and Rochester, N.Y., facilities, creating 400 local jobs. Additionally, parts for the new trainsets will come from more than 350 suppliers in more than 30 states, generating an additional 1,000 jobs across the country.
The first prototype of the new trainsets will be ready in 2019, with the first trainset entering revenue service in 2021. All of the trainsets are expected to be in service by the end of 2022.