Why can t Acela go faster?

The core problem, they say, is that the Acela runs on tracks shared with commuter and freight trains—not the purpose-built, high-speed tracks found in Europe and Asia. Catch up on the headlines, understand the news and make better decisions, free in your inbox daily. Enjoy a free article in every edition.



People Also Ask

Before the first train was built, the Federal Railroad Administration required it to meet crash safety standards that senior Amtrak officials considered too strict. That forced the manufacturers, Bombardier Inc. of Canada and GEC Alstom of France, to make the trains twice as heavy as European models.

MORE DETAILS

Superior comfort, with more space and legroom than typical airline seating. With free WiFi, and power outlets at your seat it's easy to stay connected while traveling at speeds up to 150 mph.

MORE DETAILS

In addition, the tracks, signals, rail cars and software made in the U.S. are costlier than imports, largely because the government has not funded rail the way European and Asian countries have, experts say.

MORE DETAILS

While most Shinkansen currently operate at a maximum of 300 kph (186 mph), the E5 “Bullet Trains” of Japan Railways East (JR East) run at up to 320 kph (200 mph) on the Tohoku Shinkansen, which runs north from Tokyo to Shin-Aomori.

MORE DETAILS

Look for the Quiet Car symbol on the following trains: Acela: Adjacent to First Class car. Northeast Regional: Adjacent to Business Class car. Keystone Service: Adjacent to locomotive.

MORE DETAILS

What's that about? Amtrak doesn't own the vast majority of the lines, the vast majority of rail roads are setup for freight trains that are happy to do 30-50 mph, Amtraks trains are dispatched at the leisure of the freight lines they run over.

MORE DETAILS

When naming our high speed rail service, we wanted it to stand for something. So we named it Acela, which is the combination of the words acceleration and excellence.

MORE DETAILS

In fiscal year 2021, Amtrak had revenues of $2.1 billion, expenses of $4.1 billion, and a loss of $2.0 billion. It had been receiving about $2 billion a year in federal aid but then received $3.7 billion in pandemic-related aid in 2020 and 2021.

MORE DETAILS

Amtrak tickets tend to be higher than air fares if you book a roomette or bedroom as the price includes meals and private accommodations. However, Amtrak coach seats are often cheaper than coach seats on a plane, especially if you purchase tickets in advance.

MORE DETAILS

Reduced traffic: During the nighttime, there is generally less road traffic and fewer other trains on the tracks. This allows trains to move more efficiently and with fewer delays, as they encounter fewer obstacles and can maintain a consistent speed.

MORE DETAILS

All Acela trains now offer seat selection in Business and First Class, offering more peace of mind knowing your seat is waiting for you.

MORE DETAILS

First Class seating is available exclusively on Acela.

MORE DETAILS