Amtrak to refresh interiors of Acela Express fleet

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Photo: Leading Lights.
Photo: Leading Lights.
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Amtrak has detailed plans to give its entire fleet of Acela Express trains on the Northeast Corridor an “extensive refresh”.

The 14-month programme will cost $4 million and will see the flagship service’s 20 trainsets – each with six coaches and two powercars – refurbished ahead of the introduction of the 28 ‘next generation’ Alstom trainsets in 2021.

This programme will see new cushions and covers fitted for all business class and first-class seats, new carpet for the aisle and a deep clean.

Materials from the existing Acela cushions and covers will be reused, recycled and turned into carpet padding, while the leather will be upcycled and converted into handbags, wallets and other consumer goods.


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Photo: Amtrak.
Photo: Amtrak.

Train services will not be impacted by the refresh, which begins in May, 2018.

Amtrak CEO and president Richard Anderson said: “Customers expect a premium experience when they board an Acela Express train, and these updated interior features will provide a more comfortable, refreshed look and feel – whether you want to relax, move about freely, work or play.”

The Acela Express service travels along the Northeast Corridor between Boston and Washington, DC.


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