Brightline West reveals interiors of new high-speed rail linking Las Vegas and Southern California

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Brightline West reveals interiors of new high-speed rail linking Las Vegas and Southern California

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Daisy Hernandez Credit cards editor | The Points Guy

By Sky Industry News

Oct 9, 2024

Construction on Brightline West's high-speed rail line, which aims to connect Las Vegas with Southern California by 2028, is progressing. The private rail operator has recently provided a preview of the interior of its upcoming trainsets.

The new design includes an upscale lounge car that is expected to attract passengers traveling to and from Las Vegas. In collaboration with Siemens Mobility, Brightline will build 220 trainsets for this western network at a facility in New York. These trains, named American Pioneer 220, are central to Brightline's plan to offer America's first high-speed rail service.

The interior renderings reveal features similar to those in the current Florida trains, including leather ergonomic seats and overhead bins. However, the Brightline West trains will have a warmer color scheme suitable for the desert environment they will traverse at speeds over 200 mph.

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Higher-paying travelers can enjoy premium cabins with white seats and pastel peach headrests, while standard "Smart" cars feature white leather seats with green headrests. Amenities like Wi-Fi and power outlets are anticipated, akin to the Florida trains' offerings.

The lounge car stands out in the renderings with tan, pastel, and green decor alongside a walk-up bar featuring desert imagery. Lounge seating options include wraparound booths and softer chairs next to small tables.

Brightline West ensures that the trainsets will meet accessibility standards under the Americans with Disabilities Act. The exterior design focuses on aerodynamic efficiency for high-speed travel.

In September, key figures such as U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer viewed a scaled model of these future trainsets. Siemens plans to commence construction in 2026 at its new facility in Horseheads, New York.

Brightline West officials aim for revenue service by the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. This $12 billion project benefits from federal funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Stops are planned for Victor Valley and Rancho Cucamonga in California but not directly at Los Angeles Union Station. Future connections may link it with Southern California's regional mass transit systems and California's developing "bullet train."