Amtrak
The most
important thing
was to make a
will be built by
Alstom in Hornell,
New York state, while
the nearby Rochester
site will contribute
to the contract via
train specifically for
the signalling
Americans and Amtrak
Xavier Allard, Alstom
The
trains
scope
the seats, but that’s absolutely not the case for
the US market. We had to express comfort with
something more robust looking, but at the same
time, elegant. We had to create a very modern
train, but with a timeless design.”
There are two classes on board, the main
difference between the designs being the seat
pitch and width, plus the armrests. Amenities
at each seat include an integrated reading light,
USB ports, electric power outlets, a tray table
and a cupholder. Amtrak has also committed
to improving its wi-fi provision.
Recycled leather
Another aim was to improve sustainability,
and as part of this, the seats are upholstered
with recycled leather, there is a new food
and beverage programme and an expanded
recycling programme. Amtrak says energy
consumption has been reduced by at least
20% with the new design.
First class will have an in-seat meal
service, but both classes also have access
to a specially designed car featuring a bar
TOP LEFT: The trains
are being built in New
York State
LEFT: Business class
on the new trains
ABOVE: The provision
of clear information
was an important
part of the brief
INSET: The trains
will operate at up to
160mph (258km/h)
ANNUAL SHOWCASE 2019 Railway Interiors International 41
THE AVELIA PLATFORM
The design is based on Alstom’s Avelia highspeed
platform, which includes tilting technology
to maximise speed and ride comfort. The trains
will operate at up to 160mph (258km/h) but are
capable of 187mph (300km/h) to allow Amtrak
to capitalise on future infrastructure upgrades.
For safety, there are concentrated power cars
at each end of the trainset, and the train also has
a crash energy management system. There is
also a real-time safety monitoring system.