The future of train travel on the Northeast Corridor is here, but just how much of an improvement is it? CNN’s Alexandra Skores goes on board the train’s maiden voyage and shows us if it’s the revolution Amtrak is hoping for.

New York

Amtrak has introduced its next-generation Acela high-speed train, connecting major cities such as Washington, D.C., New York City, and Boston. The new trains feature a sleek design, increased seating capacity, and improved energy efficiency. Passengers can expect more spacious seating, upgraded amenities like winged headrests, reading lights, and a cafe with both grab-and-go and full-service options.

Despite these improvements, the service faces challenges, including limited daily departures and higher ticket prices compared to standard Amtrak trains. While the new Acela can reach speeds up to 160 miles per hour, existing rail infrastructure may limit its ability to consistently achieve these speeds. The train offers a potentially faster and more comfortable alternative during peak travel times, especially when flight prices are high.

Is Amtrak’s new high-speed train worth the price?

Come on board America's only high-speed rail service, Amtrak's next-gen Acela. On the outside it looks super sleek and very futuristic, but let's go take a look on the inside. Welcome aboard Amtrak's Acelabration train, the first and historic ride on our new-gen Acela high-speed service. Linking major cities from Washington, D.C., New York City, and Boston, and stops in between. These next-generation trains have been a long time coming. The original Acela launched in 2000, and this upgrade's maiden voyage was pushed back a few years. Acela trains are some of the fastest in the U.S., reaching at speeds up to 160 miles per hour. But with dated infrastructure, it's unclear whether or not we can actually achieve those speeds. In China and Japan, they have rail systems that can go as fast as 200 miles per hour. Each train has nearly 400 seats. That's 27% more capacity than regular Amtrak trains. It's also designed to be more energy efficient and environmentally friendly. So, first thing as a passenger, you notice the legroom, super spacious, really comfortable. Then you can lean back, and there's actually a winged headrest. And there's this nice little reading light installed right into your headrest. The new Acela is far from perfect. We're about 45 minutes into our train ride, and we just were told that the Wi-Fi's down. So, hopefully it comes back up. So, it's not the fastest Wi-Fi I've ever used, but it's definitely running faster than earlier. The amenities also include spacious restrooms and a cafe that offers both grab-and-go options and full service at your seat. Can I get you anything? Wine? Yes. Can I get a glass of Sauvignon Blanc? Yes, you can. This might be one of my favorite perks, and it kind of reminds me of being on a plane. But these trains are a bit pricier than your average Amtrak. With business class and first class available for purchase, it also varies based on the day and the time that you're trying to travel. Right now, there are only a few trains running each day, so it might not always be the most convenient. But during peak travel times, when flights are expensive, the new Acela could save you money and give you a more comfortable ride along the East Coast. We've arrived at Penn Station in a little under three hours, quicker than your typical Acela train.

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