Alstom, the trains' manufacturer, says the issue is with the old train tracks on the route.
Amtrak
"The modeling of the wheel to track interface is particularly complex due to age, condition, and specific characteristics of Amtrak infrastructure on the Northeast corridor, and especially the existing tracks," an Alstom spokesperson told Insider.
But in anticipation of the smoother and faster trains — as delayed as they may be — let's take a closer look at the interior, which will appeal to Amtrak riders who are tired of the old cars lined with grey and blue seats.
The next-generation trains are a long time coming: the current Acela trains have been in operation since 2000, and it's been six years since Amtrak announced its plans to refresh the aging stock.
The seats will also have tray tables of varying sizes to cater to every traveler's needs.
Amtrak
There's nothing more uncomfortable than shimmying out of an interior seat. To make entering and exiting the four-person seating configuration easier, the sides of the tables will have foldable extensions.
Amtrak
In a bid to make travel more sustainable, the seats will also be made of recycled leather …
Amtrak
… and the train will use 40% less energy per traveler, according to Amtrak.
Amtrak
It seems like everything is touchless in the age of COVID-19, and the new Acela will be no different.
Amtrak
Several onboard services and amenities will be contactless, including the bathroom with an automatic door and touchless amenities.
Amtrak
If you're eager to ride in the refreshed Acela, you'll have to be patient.
Amtrak
You won't be seeing this new Acela in service until 2024 when it'll begin operating on the Northeast Corridor between Boston and Washington, DC.
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