When Amtrak was formed and began operations in the 1970’s, rolling stock consisted on what is charitably referred to as the heritage fleet. What this “fleet” consisted off was a mishmash of rolling stock from railroads giving up passenger service. As such, it had not been maintained particularly well and was definitely not the image of modern rail service Amtrak wanted to present. To address this, Amtrak worked with the Budd Company to develop Amfleet cars. They were largely based on the successful Metroliner car design. Designed to look modern and sleek to appeal to the modern travelers with large windows, comfortable seating and quiet rides.

Development of these cars started in 1973 with several versions developed including 84 seat coaches, 59 seat coaches, Amcafe cars and lounge cars. The first run of these cars, Amfleet I cars were delivered between 1975 and 1978. Amfleet I cars consisted of 406 coaches and 86 cafes. The second run of these cars, Amfleet II were delivered between 1981 and 1983 and consist of 125 coaches and 25 lounges.

These cars see extensive service in the Northeast and also on many of the eastern regional routes. They are paired with Viewliner sleeper cars in service now and will be paired with the new diner and baggage Viewliner cars entering service. These cars can also be seen in other parts of the country. For example, the Pacific Surfliner regularly runs a daytime consist of Amfleet and Horizon fleet cars.

Features:

• Correct profile with finely detailed corrugations
• New trucks with factory lubricated inside bearings, brake shoe & other details
• Highly detailed underbody equipment
• Centersill & cross bracing on underframe
• Real metal finish simulates stainless steel
• Factory installed grab irons
• Paint color matched to Amtrak standards
• Window gasket details
• Prototypical smoked glass windows
• Car number decals
• Correct 36 in turned metal wheelsets
• Proto MAX metal knuckle couplers
• Available in stndard and LED lighting equipped versions