Amtrak: New locomotives reduce delays on Northeast, Keystone corridors

The introduction of Amtrak Cities Sprinter (ACS-64) locomotives has helped improve on-time performance on two heavily-trafficked Amtrak corridors, the national passenger railroad announced yesterday.

Compared to the legacy fleet operating in 2013, the new Siemens-built units have reduced delay times by 30 percent along the Northeast and Keystone corridors, according to an Amtrak press release.

In addition, the positive train control-ready locomotives include crash energy management components and inward-facing cameras.

Amtrak began rolling out the ACS-64 locomotives in 2014, powering all Northeast regional and long-distance trains between Boston, New York City and Washington, D.C. The units also were introduced on the Keystone route between New York City, Philadelphia and Harrisburg, Pa. The locomotives travel up to 125 mph.

The railroad's 70th and final ACS-64 locomotive entered revenue service this week.

"Delivery of the final ACS-64 locomotive marks a major milestone for Amtrak as this new fleet — a multimillion dollar investment — was delivered ahead of schedule and is improving service for millions of customers in the northeast," said Amtrak President and Chief Executive Officer Joe Boardman. "The locomotives have ushered in a new era of improved performance, efficiency and reliability that is integral to keeping the people and businesses in the northeast moving.