Alstom’s next generation high speed trainset for Amtrak was recently revealed. The design of the new livery is articulated around the overall shape of the train, in the characteristic Amtrak blue, red and white colours, with an additional touch of grey on the front. With its eagle-eye well-positioned under the drivers’ cabin, and continuous white streak that runs along the window area of the cars, Alstom’s Avelia Liberty livery provides characteristic and easily recognizable identity for the new trainsets.
The 28 new high speed trainsets will replace the existing Acela trainsets, thus increasing passenger capacity, providing more frequent service, minimizing journey times, and improving operating costs and energy efficiency. They will be put into operation on Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor (NEC).
The new trainsets will be manufactured at Alstom’s site in Hornell, NY. They will be maintained in the depots of Amtrak in Boston, New York and Washington, D.C. under a specific Technical Support and Spare Supply Agreement (TSSSA) with additional support from Alstom’s sites in New York, Delaware and Illinois for a period of 15 years, with an option for an additional 15 years. Alstom and Amtrak announced the contract for the 28 Avelia Liberty and the TSSSA in August 2016.
The new trainset will be able to carry up to 33% more passengers than the current Acela trains. The trainset configuration includes an innovative compact power car and nine passenger cars, with the possibility of three more being added if demand grows. The train is capable of travelling at speeds up to 186 mph, but will initially operate at a maximum speed of 160 mph based on NEC track speed limits. Additionally, each concentrated power car is equipped with Alstom’s pioneering Crash Energy Management system.
Another key feature is the train’s articulated architecture, which provides greater stability and passenger comfort while enhancing safety. The train also includes Alstom’s innovative Tiltronix™ anticipative tilting technology, which allows the train to manoeuvre curves safely and more comfortably at high speeds.
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