Amtrak noted that the new Airo trains, which are being manufactured by Siemens, are more fuel efficient than its current diesel trains and produce 90% less particulate emissions.
“As we invest in the future, Amtrak is leading the way with a new era of rail,” said Amtrak president Roger Harris. “Our new trains will transform the Amtrak experience with significant environmental benefits, a progressive design and world-class amenities.”
The new trains will operate at speeds of up to 125 mph and offer near seamless transition between power sources where time-consuming locomotive changes were previously required, according to Amtrak.
In response to strong customer demand, the new trains are part of a larger transformation that will revolutionize the Amtrak experience, including the new Acela trains, which are scheduled to enter service on the Northeast Corridor (NEC) in 2023.
Amtrak’s move to the future also includes major infrastructure projects, service expansion, station upgrades, modernization efforts and improved track capacity along the Northeast Corridor.
A share of Amtrak’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) funding will support the procurement of Amtrak Airo, which will be manufactured by Siemens in California.
Michael Cahill, president of Siemens Mobility Rolling Stock in North America, added, “Our new trainsets are a key part of helping Amtrak transform rail travel for Americans. Passengers want a reliable, comfortable, and sustainable experience once on-board. Our 2,500 team members in Sacramento and hundreds of suppliers in the US are proud to help Amtrak deliver the next generation of travel.”