Amtrak Airo Production Boosts Economies Across the Nation

Friday, October 13, 2023

The manufacturing of Amtrak Airo trains is providing a significant boost to businesses across the nation as production accelerates. This initiative is generating new sustainable jobs in engineering and manufacturing, benefiting communities throughout the country. With almost 100 suppliers from 31 states contributing, over 3,500 parts are being produced, promoting economic growth in various regions.

Amtrak President Roger Harris said, “As we build to support the soaring demand for train travel, Amtrak Airo is creating jobs even before the trains are on the tracks”. He further stated that the introduction of these new trains will not only offer exceptional accommodations across the nation but also drive economic growth in local communities as we transform the Amtrak travel experience.

The new trains will enhance the travel experience with roomy interiors, panoramic windows, ample legroom, both double and single seats, dedicated outlets, USB ports, and onboard Wi-Fi. With onboard passenger elevators, more accessible places, and improved auditory and visual messaging, the trains will also provide more accessibility, enhancing the ride for all passengers.

The new trains are more environmentally friendly, more sustainable, and provide a seamless transition where time-consuming locomotive swaps were previously necessary.They can travel at speeds of up to 125 mph.

In 2021, Amtrak chose Siemens Mobility Inc. to produce advanced trains adhering to Federal Railroad Administration Buy America Standards. In 2022, the official name and design information were revealed. Amtrak acquired a contract option for 10 more trains in the summer of 2023, increasing the total number of trains ordered to 83. The new trains are being manufactured at Siemens Mobility’s Sacramento, California, facility, one of the biggest and greenest of its kind, with solar panels supplying the majority of its power.

Amtrak’s groundbreaking Airo trains are set to premiere in 2026. Passengers will enjoy the enhanced Amtrak Airo experience on various routes, including Northeast Regional, Empire Service, Amtrak Virginia Services, Keystone Service, Amtrak Downeaster, Amtrak
Cascades, Maple Leaf, New Haven-Springfield-Greenfield Service, Palmetto, Carolinian,
Pennsylvanian, Vermonter, Ethan Allen Express, and Adirondack.

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