Amtrak has unveiled its new Acela fleet of high-speed trains that will allow passengers in the northeastern part of the United States to travel in a more sustainable way.
The Acela line, which will begin operating between Boston and Washington DC in 2021, will reduce carbon consumption by nearly half, according to Lonely Planet.
Next-generation Acela Express Design
The national passenger railroad service’s new-look low carbon transport will be more comfortable and feature several improvements on its predecessor.
It will have 25 percent more seats, more legroom and boast more spacious bathrooms and larger luggage storage compartments.
The lightweight design of the train is what enables it to reduce its carbon output by nearly 40 percent per customer — an added benefit of the weight reduction is speed.
The trains will travel at 160 miles per hour, which is 10 miles faster than current models, so passenger can expect a faster commute.
The new model will also be more accessible and people with disabilities will easily be able to move through the locomotive. There will be built-in technology to keep passengers updated of their location, travel speed and any announcements from the conductor.
Passengers will also be pleased to know that there will be complimentary WiFi onboard and each seat will have its own power outlet and USB ports for people to plug in their devices. Each seat also comes with adjustable reading lights.
Amtrak has upgraded the cafe and have expanded the dining and beverage options on offer.
Passengers will have a greater selection of meals and craft beers to choose from. The food items will be packaged in more environmentally friendly packaging.
The upgraded train model will start running along the current Acela line in 2021.
New Acela Fleet Video on the Move at Hornell from Amtrak Media on Vimeo.
Picture: Amtrak
