Amtrak shares update on US long-distance rail

Amtrak said it has begun the process of updating its aging fleet of long-distance trains with new, American-made “state-of-the-art trains.”

The national railroad company said on Wednesday that it had begun a procurement process for what it says will be its largest-ever order of long-distance passenger railcars to improve safety, reliability and customer experience.

Why It Matters

The overhaul marks a major step in modernizing U.S. long-distance rail, much of which still relies on passenger cars that are approaching 50 years in service.

Amtrak said the new fleet is intended to improve service while standardizing equipment across its long distance network, which connects major cities as well as rural communities.

What To Know

Amtrak said it has begun a procurement process for its new long-distance trains by issuing a request for proposals (RFP), formally inviting manufacturers to bid on building the new rail fleet.

It said the “once-in-a-generation fleet replacement program” will involve more than 800 new railcars on 14 routes.

The program to update the old long-distance fleet was developed by working closely with the Federal Railroad Administration, and seeks to improve overnight and cross-country travel across the country, the company said.

The new fleet would standardize long distance service by moving to a universal single-level fleet, replacing the current mix of bi-level and single-level equipment. Amtrak previously noted that there were challenges associated with operating a hybrid fleet.

Amtrak said it will continue assessing the condition of its existing fleet and consider any life-extension measures needed to maintain safe and reliable service until the new trains enter operation.

The move is part of Amtrak’s broader fleet replacement strategy, which includes upgrading both engines and passenger trains across its network.

Amtrak said its strategy aims to broaden competition among potential carbuilders and reduce program risk.

What People Are Saying

Amtrak president Roger Harris said in a promotional video: “Amtrak passengers have been riding the same trains for decades, but that’s about to change in a big way. Today’s announcement sends a clear message. New state-of-the-art trains are coming and they’ll be built right here in America. Our customers deserve the best.”

Deputy Transportation Secretary Steve Bradbury previously said: “With these new cars, Amtrak will finally replace its aging fleet and provide American travelers with the world class rail service they deserve, helping usher in Secretary Duffy’s vision for a new Golden Age of travel. These new cars won’t just benefit American train passengers, but workers too by supporting good paying domestic manufacturing jobs.”