New high-speed Acela trainsets manufactured by members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) have begun regular service on Amtrak’s Northeast Rail Corridor. The new trains, known as Avelia Liberty, are capable of reaching speeds up to 160 miles per hour and represent a significant upgrade from the previous Acela Express locomotives, which had been in operation since 2000.
The Avelia Liberty trains deliver 9,400 horsepower compared to the 6,100 horsepower of their predecessors. IAM Local 2741 (District 19) members based in Hornell, New York, were responsible for building these new trainsets. The introduction of these trains is part of a broader effort to advance high-speed rail infrastructure within the United States.
“Amtrak had an all-time ridership record of 32.9 million passengers in Fiscal Year 2024. That milestone would not be possible without our members’ expertise and unwavering commitment to maintaining safety and excellent customer service,” said TCU/IAM President Artie Maratea. “These new trainsets meet our riders’ demands, and we are excited to serve our customers with this service.”
Passengers on the new Acela trains will experience several modern features including 5G Wi-Fi, individual USB ports at each seat for device charging, accessible power outlets, and reading lights integrated into headrests. The seating arrangements as well as dining and kitchen spaces have been redesigned for comfort and practicality. Members of TCU/IAM participate in Amtrak’s On-board Service Workers Council, which provides input on customer experience improvements.
“High-speed rail is here. Now we build out the railways and infrastructure to support even faster passenger trains in the United States,” said Josh Hartford, Special Assistant to the IAM President for Rail Division. “District 19 and IAM Rail Division members can do the job to make America’s rail transportation world-class.”
A total of 28 NextGen Acela trains will be introduced between now and 2027; five sets will operate alongside existing Acela Express units initially. The Avelia Liberty cars feature a tilt system designed to enhance ride quality by making it smoother and quieter. These trains will operate multiple trips daily along a route that connects Washington D.C.’s Union Station with Boston South Station across fourteen stops.
