SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Siemens Mobility and Amtrak have unveiled a prototype of the first car for the new Amtrak Airo equipment at the builder’s Sacramento, Calif.
The Wednesday event provided the first look at the equipment to be provided in 83 fixed trainsets, the first of which is scheduled to enter service in 2026. The equipment will eventually be assigned to Northeast Regional, Empire, Keystone, New Haven-Springfield-Greenfield, and Virginia services; the Downeaster, Vermonter, Maple Leaf, Ethan Allen Express and Adirondack; Palmetto, Carolinian, and Pennsylvanian.
Amtrak selected Siemens Mobility in 2021 to manufacture new, state-of-the-art trains that comply with the Federal Railroad Administration Buy America standards. The Airo name and design details were announced last year [see “Amtrak rolls out ‘Airo’ branding …,” Trains News Wire, Dec. 15, 2022].
The new trains will feature redesigned interiors, panoramic windows, double and single seats, dedicated outlets, USB ports, and onboard Wi-Fi. The trains will also offer greater accessibility with onboard passenger lifts, increased accessible spaces, and enhanced audible and visual messaging Amtrak says will improve the experience for all customers. The new trains will operate at speeds of up to 125 mph; many of the trainsets will feature dual-mode capabilities, eliminating the need for locomotive changes currently required when entering or leaving electrified territory.
“As we build to support the soaring demand for train travel, Amtrak Airo is creating jobs even before the trains are on the tracks,” Amtrak President Roger Harris said. “The new trains will not only provide world-class accommodations on routes throughout the country but will stimulate local economies as we revolutionize the Amtrak experience.”
In a press release, Amtrak emphasized the widespread supply chain involved in the manufacturing process, which includes nearly 100 suppliers in 31 states.
“Amtrak is an integral part of the fabric of our nation,” said Michael Cahill, President of Rolling Stock for Siemens Mobility North America, “and Amtrak Airo will represent a new level of passenger experience for travelers throughout America.”
