High-Speed Trains Between California and Vegas: First Look Inside

The United States is expecting to have its first high-speed rail line in full commission in time for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
The $12 billion American Pioneer 220 (AP220) train line, built by Brightline West and Siemens Mobility, promises to take passengers between Las Vegas and California in as little as 2 hours and 10 minutes, half the amount of time it takes to drive.
The AP220 will reach speeds up to 200 mph, which is similar to the TGV in France and the Shinkansen “bullet train” in Japan. The fastest train in the world is the Maglev in Shanghai, China, which operates at 285 mph.
Brightline West said the project is expected to create 35,000 construction jobs, 1,000 permanent jobs and $1 billion in tax revenues.
The trains are also fitted to provide luxurious comfort for passengers.
“A guest-first experience will make riders feel like VIPs from the moment they enter our stations,” Brightline West has said. “Riders will have access to world-class amenities to make it as easy as possible to get on board, skip traffic and arrive to their destination.
“Riders will be able to check into their hotels while on board and have their luggage transported from the train directly to their hotel. First- and last-mile connectivity options will ensure a car-free, care-free travel experience from start to finish.”
These amenities include seats in standard and first class with the same legroom as a first-class plane seat, free high-speed Wi-Fi, power outlets and USB ports by the seats.
The trains also promise to be ADA-accessible and will have level boarding for people with additional needs, wheelchairs, strollers and wheeled bags.
The trains are set to be built in Horseheads, New York, at America’s first high-speed rail production facility.
“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,” Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said of the production facility.
“Siemens Mobility is an excellent addition to the outstanding manufacturers already in this region, and I am thrilled they heeded my call to come to New York and will join the rail car manufacturing ecosystem right here.”