Amtrak Auto Train Sees Record Growth, Launches New Fare Sale

Amtrak Auto Train reports 20% growth in vehicle transport, launches promotional fares from $35 as part of broader service expansion and modernization efforts.

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Al Landes Avatar

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Image credit: Wikimedia

Key Takeaways

  • Vehicle transport up 20% from pre-pandemic levels

  • New promotional fares start at $35

  • Service supports Amtrak’s 2040 growth targets

Amtrak’s Auto Train service reports unprecedented growth, carrying 177,871 vehicles in Fiscal Year 2023 – a 20% increase from pre-pandemic levels. The unique service, which transports both passengers and their vehicles between the Northeast and Florida, now offers promotional fares starting at $35.

Service Innovation distinguishes the Auto Train in American rail travel. The daily route connects Lorton, Virginia to Sanford, Florida through a 16½-hour overnight journey, allowing travelers to avoid 900 miles of Interstate 95 driving.

Promotional Pricing makes the service more accessible:

  • Coach seats from $35
  • Private rooms from $235
  • Children’s fares from $17.50

Passenger Experience continues to evolve through infrastructure investments. The service operates as part of Amtrak’s broader expansion, which achieved record ridership of 32.8 million customer trips in Fiscal Year 2024.

This growth supports Amtrak’s ambitious goal of doubling annual ridership to 66 million by 2040. To meet increasing demand, the railroad is hiring 3,500 new employees and investing $4.5 billion in infrastructure improvements.

The Auto Train represents a significant component of Amtrak’s modernization efforts, offering travelers a sustainable alternative to long-distance driving while maintaining the convenience of personal vehicle access at their destination.

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