The next steps for the country’s first all-electric high-speed train, Brightline West’s AP220, are underway with a new production facility set to take over Horseheads, New York.
Brightline West will travel at a speed of 220mph, covering 218 miles from Las Vegas, Nevada to Rancho Cucamonga, California in just two hours and 10 minutes—cutting the average driving time in half!
The eco-friendly train will revolutionize rail service in America, finally [competing] with the best [trains] in the world,” Michael Reininger, Brightline CEO told Travel + Leisure.
Though construction on the overall project broke ground last April, production at the New York facility is set to commence in 2026. It marks a $60 million investment by Siemens Mobility, taking over 300,000 square feet in Horseheads, New York. The new facility is expected to generate approximately 300 jobs in the community.
“Upstate New York is unmatched in rail car manufacturing capabilities, with a deep proud history pioneering the rail industry and a community that is excited to get to work building America’s future,” proudly said Senator Schumer.
New renderings of the train design feature chic interiors, with spacious seating. There will even be a luxurious “party car,” perfect for lounging around during the journey.
The company hopes to begin servicing Brightline West passengers by 2028. If all goes to plan, the AP 220 will aid in transportation during the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
Brightline already operates train service between Central and South Florida, only reaching a maximum speed of 125mph. With existing stations in Miami, Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach and Orlando, Brightline intends to expand into Stuart and Cocoa.
As for us East Coasters, we’ll still have to hope the 225mph train proposed to connect NYC and Boston eventually comes to fruition.