NEW Business Class on the Amtrak Venture Cars

The Venture cars have been running on Amtrak’s Midwestern routes since last year, but only since spring of 2023 have the business class seats been in service. We were upgraded for FREE on the Wolverine, and today we bring you the first review of these new seats!
Trains Are Awesome!

[@c4call]

I work for Siemens Mobility. I actually work in the welding shop building the coach and cab cars. I get to build them strcuturally, and see them get assembled with all of their internals getting installed. Pretty cool to start seeing them in videos!

[@Thom-TRA]

You did a good job with these! I like them a lot

[@buttercuppy269034]

Over the summer I had the pleasure of riding Amtrak from Kalamazoo to Battle Creek! That’s was my first time! Not sure I could ride backwards though.. Thanks for the video

[@bts845]

The new seats suck. So disappointed amtrak would do this

[@wavesnbikes]

Good Job, man! Hopefully, you can share this channel to your Siemens peers, as it would help them check out reviews and comments for the equipment they're building!

[@AverytheCubanAmerican]

A business class car treated as coach? It's like they knew a celebrity in the transit community was on board and gave you VIP treatment! Jealous! Love the automated announcements! They're helpful for luggage and it's loud and clear enough to wake people up to get ready for their stop ahead of time. And as someone with a disability, I'm glad they go above and beyond to make sure others make things right for accessibility through the announcements. Simply having accessibility seating areas clear for us in the community and having clear announcements makes a difference. Having a disability is a part of why I push for better transit so much. And pedestrian infrastructure in general. I live on Long Island, which is very car-oriented. I was lucky to qualify for paratransit. But for those who don't have disabilities and can't drive a car, they're basically stranded. More politicians need to realize that not everyone can afford a car nor is mentally or physically capable to drive one. But they won't realize until we keep speaking up. A simple sidewalk, pedestrianized streets, bike lanes, and increased frequency for transit can go a long way. A walkable transit city in North America is very much possible and not a pipe dream! Jersey City is an example of this!

[@Thom-TRA]

A celebrity? Haha that’s the first time someone’s ever said that Thanks for being so open and vulnerable about your experiences! I always appreciate your input

[@MistyOLR]

@@Thom-TRA I know I’d probably be like “OMG are you the dude?” If I thought I saw you in Chicago, especially at Union Station heh

[@JJRol.]

I agree with you. These trains look so great. I've always loved Siemens' rolling stock. The announcements are a good step in the right direction for accessibility. The interior looks much more modern and the features look great! I can't wait to ride on one of these venture cars!

[@Thom-TRA]

Hope you get a chance soon!

[@davidburrow5895]

I'm waiting for these to appear on the Illinois Zephyr, the train I use most. One perk of Midwest business class I really like is access to the Metropolitan Lounge in Chicago. At no additional charge you can enjoy light snacks and soft drinks and also leave your baggage all day before or after a trip.

[@Thom-TRA]

The lounge is a great perk. Particularly the one in Chicago which is so spacious. I’ve seen the coach cars on the IZ/CS but no business yet…

[@heavyhauler426]

Whenever you get the chance, head to Florida and ride the Brightline. These coaches were actually developed for them. Brightline's Premium option is comparable to the Business class shown here. I think Brightline did it better though...

[@heavyhauler426]

@TohaBgood2 Many people don't like Amtrak because it's run by the government. I don't like Amtrak because their overall service could be better. We are not the same.

[@heavyhauler426]

@TohaBgood2 Brightline is mostly privately funded. The government gives some cash here and there. However, Brightline gets its cash from fares, real estate, and investors. Also, the presentation of a good or service works wonders on public perception. Payless has a wonderful experiment where they rebranded as Pelessi for a weekend. People paid more just because they looked exotic. All this to say, even without money, Amtrak can improve its perception by making themselves look better than they are. Whether that's through marketing, service improvement, or both. It seems Amtrak is starting to work on their service. They have new locomotives and new coaches. Hopefully, they will get better on-train hospitality. After they negotiate better scheduling with freight railroads, they need to work on their image. Their Northeast Corridor is a prime example. Amtrak has a long railroad ahead. If they improve their presentation and freight operators improve their scheduling, I guarantee Amtrak will improve overall as a service. Their public image is low, but hopefully, their spirits are high like yours.

[@heavyhauler426]

@@TohaBgood2 Imma let this go. You like Amtrak. I like Brightline. The end.

[@MrJoeairman2000]

I thought they looked familiar.

[@michaelformaini7053]

These carriages are very impressive and a darn sight more passenger friendly than the Amfleet cars. I have had only one experience of the Amfleet type, on a San Diegan back in 1989. You and Lindsey were indeed blessed to have the upgrade without extra cost. A reward for sharing your travel experiences and ideas. Keep up the good work.

[@Thom-TRA]

Thank you! We were very blessed indeed

[@hughosborn7292]

looking forward to your adventure 1!

[@user-bs1zo6tr2g]

I rode the Venture cars on Brightline recently from Orlando to Miami. The seats looked uncomfortable and recline seemed laughable but I notice I was comfortable and somehow slept well and finished the trip refreshed. I imagine the seats are engineered in some special way.

[@ck4426]

What a awesome, unexpected surprise!!! And it was great to see Lindsey again!!! What a wonderful video and review, thank you!!!

[@chasemartin4450]

Glad to see they finally got the signs working!

[@SuperDave30]

Finally I been waiting for update about how the new Amtrak business class cars are!

[@lucaspublictransport995]

Hi Tom, it's nice to see a nice modern looking train for the US market!

[@paulcastillo1310]

Great video from Paul Castillo 👍😁

[@timgriffin441]

Your Train Videos are awesome an very cool,I watched a few of them so you di a fantastic Jon.On your video I like how you give detail information and location and description too. I subscribed too your channel today,keep you the great cooler videos Thom cheers 100% job well done 👍

[@Thom-TRA]

Thanks for the feedback and for subscribing! I really appreciate it

[@trvlngalex8754]

Thanks for doing an unexpected review! I am a frequent traveler on the Illini and Saluki Amtrak trains down to Carbondale, so I am looking forward to seeing the Venture Cars eventually.... For now, been enjoying my "business class" on the Super Liner Trains. Great Video!

[@chicagolandrailroader]

Looks clean and modern. Can't wait for these to be rolled out in more places

[@Hobbytrem]

*THANK YOU FOR SHARING THAT OPPORTUNITY WITH US! I sincerely felt like I was there. You just earned one more subscriber to your channel.*

[@Thom-TRA]

I’m glad it was so good!

[@joemotes]

Thom, thanks again for another interesting video.

[@Thom-TRA]

You’re welcome!

[@NancyLiedel]

I'm in Michigan. This is super helpful. I see a trip to Chicago in my future. Thank you.

[@Thom-TRA]

Enjoy your trip!

[@dennisforner6090]

Wow Thom that was simply awesome. I think we all have been waiting in anticipation to finally see the new Business Class in operation. Whilst you might pay more for the experience, from what you described it appears that this class does offer some improved features from Coach. It was refreshing to see that the screens were finally working & displaying relevant information. This is a major innovation & the toilets look fantastic. Now for the new Cafe cars! Thank you for your candid comments & for sharing this Thom. I look forward to your next awesome train adventure.

[@londonwhaley8690]

I enjoyed that video👍👍

[@chicagolandrailfan143]

I got SUPER excited to see this video on my KZbin home page and I immediately clicked on it. Can't wait for more amazing content! Keep up the good work, Thom!

[@Thom-TRA]

I’m so happy you were so excited! I’ve been excited to share this one

[@JuanWayTrips]

7:55 Dowagiac has not been cut from the schedule. It's always been a station that not every Wolverine/Blue Water train stops at (been riding the Wolverine occasionally since 2013). It looks like the current trains that stop there are both Blue Waters and the 350/355 Wolverines.

[@Thom-TRA]

I never said it had been cut from the schedule. Just pointing out this train doesn’t stop there.

[@nightvisiongoggle4100]

Thank you young man for showing me new places and trains.

[@Thom-TRA]

You’re welcome!

[@SpotterCrazyperson]

These trains look great!

[@DCYote1]

I can't wait to see these cars on the Blue Water. Last time I rode it from CHI, there was one Venture car on the consist but they had us Port Huron passengers board at the opposite end of the train and I wasn't sure if they'd get mad at me for sitting in the Venture car. I wonder if Amtrak will still have a cafe car when they do finally get them though. It's nice to board at 5am, get a little nap and then have a little hot breakfast sandwich and coffee when you wake up.

[@Thom-TRA]

They are building cafe cars!

[@MiaCollinsNeighborhood]

This video is right on track, Thom!

[@MiaCollinsNeighborhood]

Get the pun?

[@Railfan166]

Can’t wait to ride these to Columbus Indiana to see my grandma when they start running the new trains to Louisville!

[@user-nc5gt5ut2d]

If there is service to Louisville I will be one of the first to ride!

[@melvayaredaguilar]

those areas seem so nice

[@Robert-bg3lo]

Tom you always do a great job on your filming and reporting of your rail journies and I always look forward for your next video! Robert Cook Portland Oregon

[@Thom-TRA]

Thank you!

[@alk61695]

I never rode those cars on Amtrak but I did ride it on Brightline. I had a comfortable ride in them. Though it was only on the quick ride from Fort Lauderdale to Miami.

[@melvayaredaguilar]

nice to meet you tom

[@Rondomino47]

Trains Are Awesome is awesome. Very interesting and informative video; it definitely kept up with the high standards of the railfanning videos produced by Thom. I've come to expect comfortable seating on board Amtrak trains ever since my first trip on Amtrak way back, in 1982 on board the Coast Starlight from Richmond, California to Seattle, Washington-- I was astounded by the ample leg room and comfortable seat.

[@Thom-TRA]

Thank you for the compliments!

[@adamshinbrot]

I remember riding Amtrak back in the 1970's when the bathrooms still had spittoons. True story, so it's always nice to see Amtrak get something new and nice.

[@Thom-TRA]

I never knew they had those! Makes sense tho

[@collectivelyimprovingtrans2460]

I thought for sure that I could say that I’ve seen the first Amtrak train in history on video with only Siemens equipment, but it looked like there was a Amfleet

[@Thom-TRA]

Yep, sadly the cafe cars are not in service yet. Really testing our patience!

[@daniellewis1789]

​@@Thom-TRADang subcontractors contaminating them with lead in the plumbing!

[@novemberajax3226]

i really love Kazoo. there was my first travel in train abroad my country (chicago-Kzoo) greetings from Chile.

[@anthonywarrener1881]

Thank you for this excellent video. Good to hear that Business Class in the new Adventure cars is worth the additional cost over Coach. I see your train had a Amfleet cafe car, and wonder when there will be an Adventure equivalent. Looking forward to your next ride !

[@Thom-TRA]

There will be venture cafe cars in the future!

[@collectivelyimprovingtrans2460]

Those automated announcements are amazing

[@Thom-TRA]

I do like them a lot!

[@redriverwave]

Venture! 👍🏽 Can’t wait to get on one!!!

[@Thom-TRA]

They’re great!

[@blitzcon007]

Thom, i watched this again and I just noticed that when you talk about the new tray tables your laptop shows a classic tray table. Well done!

[@Thom-TRA]

Thanks!

[@johnalder6028]

Very nice ! I think you like trains.

[@deaventuraconkikomas4281]

I went from Chicago to Springfield Illinois in this Venture cars in the Lincoln Service and was really really nice. I wasn't expecting this type of cars in the Amtrak fleet, very comfortable seat and huge batch bathrooms, with a very new fresh look. Thanks you once again for sharing all these features, on the Amtrak services.

[@Thom-TRA]

Glad you had a good trip on them!

[@dennisthebrony2022]

For Amtrak Long Distance Car replacement, I actually made up an Amtrak Long Distance Car called the Siemens MultiLiner, which will replace the Superliners and Amfleet 2 cars. The MultiLiner will have the same door layout as the Stadler KISS EMUs in San Francisco, to also be used in Northeast, where Stations have High-Platforms, but also on the existing Superliner routes around the USA with low platforms. But the height of the MultiLiner will have to be slightly shorter than the Superliners, so the trains will fit through NYC tunnels. Yep, it would basically have a Mid-level section, unlike the Superliners Also, I think if these cars would enter service, all of Amtrak's Intercity routes will be single level, and the ENTIRETY of Amtrak's Long Distance Routes will be Bi-Level. And I speculate if these MultiLiner Cars will enter service, I think some of those Viewliner 2 cars would also be converted into Crew Dormitory, or Baggage Cars if the MultLiner cars enter service at all, since there will be sleeper car variants of the MultiLiner that there is simply no need for a Sleeper Viewliner to even exist. The only purpose the Viewliners might serve are Baggage or Crew Dormitory cars. There would be Coach Cars, Sleeper Car, Cafe and Dining Cars, and Lounge Car variants of the MultiLiner built. This is the type of car Amtrak should use to replace all of the Long Distance Train Cars, the Superliners, the Amfleet 2s and Some of the Viewliners as well. As for the roomettes on the new Siemens MultiLiner Cars, they should also be HIGH-TECH with outdoor 360 panoramic cameras attached to the cars and train info/entertainment/camera view Screens in each Room/Roomette, and modern LED and mood lighting tech as well. Amtrak should also offer streaming Movies/Music on Demand on Long Distance Trains with no screens in rooms (Most Especially with the Viewliner, Amfleet and Superliner trains), as well as streaming the camera views and train info to your device (Similar to domestic airlines). Amtrak should install view cameras on their older long distance train cars as well.

[@SupremeLeaderKimJong-un]

"Now: BOARDING" Ah yes, as the train is already leaving the station...they a little confused but they got the spirit! Here's some info on why Michigan is known as the Wolverine State: The wolverine has never been officially adopted as the state animal! And they currently aren't found in Michigan either (only ONE wild wolverine was found in Michigan in 2004, and it died in 2010). They're now found around the Arctic, but were once more widespread in the US (though people have found legitimate wild wolverines in recent years in the western states). So why are wolverines associated with Michigan? Well, there are a few theories. The most popular origin of the nickname comes from the 1835 Toledo War between Michigan and Ohio. Since a wolverine has a reputation of being ornery, Ohioans called Michiganians “wolverines” as the two sides struggled over who owned the disputed Toledo Strip. Years later, the University of Michigan adopted the wolverine as its school mascot. Another is the trading of wolverine pelts which occurred in Sault St. Marie for many years. The trading station served as an exchange between the Indians and other trappers and fur traders, who would eventually ship the products of to the Eastern US. Because many of the furs were in fact wolverine pelts, traders may have referred to them as "Michigan wolverines".

[@Thom-TRA]

And that’s probably why it’s UofM’s mascot!

[@hobog]

Hyphenated Kim Jong-Un, hello!

[@emjeebutterz4405]

How lucky! I've yet to ride the Wolverine with Ventures, but my dad rode in them recently and he was impressed! As a wheelchair-bound person, I do look forward to taking advantage of the wider aisles and larger bathrooms whenever I happen to ride next!

[@Thom-TRA]

I hope that the wheelchair facilities are actually good and that you have a stress-free trip!

[@z3iro383]

I hope I get either one of these or the coach class when I go to Chicago or Kansas City next time

[@nolantherailfan5048]

My favorite thing about riding trains in the USA is because of something like 6:31 where I can hear the horn and watch the scenery fly by

[@CameronLandels]

Thank you for the video Thom! I am impressed with the quality of the new Amtrak Venture Cars! The business class seats look really comfortable and modern. On par with some UK first class seats! The onboard announcements are clear and legible! Glad you and Lindsey enjoyed your trip 🙂

[@Thom-TRA]

It’s a great improvement! How common are 2x3 arrangements in the UK? I think I remember seeing videos of them

[@CameronLandels]

@@Thom-TRA Hi Thom. That's a good question! 2x3 arrangements are not common anymore. The class 720's, 323's have them. The class 315's had them until they were retired last year. Nowadays, most trains have 2x2 or 2x1 arrangements.

[@rbrouns9569]

Nice presentation of the new car. With the blue seats it looks like NS trains. 👋

[@Thom-TRA]

It does look a little bit like NS!

[@DCinchi]

Hi Thom and Lindsey! Great video-I would like to take that Wolverine car! You give me hope about Amtrak(DC from HR Block!)!

[@Thom-TRA]

Thanks for commenting! And thank you for all your help :)

[@chadamtrakrailfan]

I wanted to revisit this video since I had just recently been on the Wolverine for the first time myself, as well as been on the venture cars for the first time as well. I have to say that I'm pretty much a fan of the venture cars as well. I too had a coach class ticket and they let me sit in the business class car due to overflow from coach. It was a win! The seats were really comfortable to me and I loved the modern interior aspects of it as well. I align with your thoughts on them!

[@Thom-TRA]

I love that they’ll upgrade you for free sometimes

[@Dproud2700]

I was fortunate to see the Seimens Cars completed for the Mid-West lines as well as cars for the San Jauquins which were waiting to be delivered.

[@Thom-TRA]

I wonder when the ventures will enter service in California

[@classic287]

Nice video. Nice train. Back to the MBTA train in Boston. I thought I would be taking it next month, but my ex told me about the Blue Apple bus that goes from Logan Airport to Mansfield. It’s $44 round trip. It sounds perfect, so I chickened out taking the train 🫤

[@Thom-TRA]

Hope you enjoy your time in MA nonetheless!

[@edeinhorn6016]

My wife and I took the Blue Water from Chicago to Niles on 5/6/23 and Niles to Chicago on 5/16/23, both times in Coach. We were on the older car on 5/6 and the new Venture car on 5/16. I love the bright, new look of the Venture car. The overhead signage is beautiful and easy to read. The announcements through the speakers are crystal clear. I like the full-window doors between cars and the bathroom is pretty nice and roomy for a train. We saw the button to push the seat bottom forward, but until I saw this video I had no idea what the button was for. We pressed the button, but nothing happened. An image near the button that shows the seat cushion should move forward would have been nice. I like that the overhead shelf is partly clear, so we can look up and see our items. On the downside, I thought the seats were far less comfortable than on the older train car (and we went only to Niles). Now if only Amtrak had new cars to replace the Superliners we took from Los Angeles to Chicago and Chicago to Emeryville, I'd be really happy! The bathroom on the original Superliner I car is so tiny that Santa Claus couldn't turn around inside it. Overall, however, I like the new Venture cars.

[@Thom-TRA]

They will eventually replace the Superliners this next decade! I believe they’ll go with single level stock, which will be a little sad because I like the views up top, but better for accessibility. Nothing is fully decided yet, just that they’re ordering new stock.

[@FalconsEye58094]

Now once this gets put on the NEC its gonna be a game changer

[@Thom-TRA]

Just a few more years!

[@maryannzakshevsky5181]

I love train travel and this was fun and interesting to watch. Quick question= I get dizzy if I am not facing in the direction the train is going. Is there any way of knowing ahead of time about this? Do these new trains have seats that can be adjusted to face the direction the train is moving towards? This is my first time at your site. Liked it a lot. Thanks for sharing your train travels.

[@Thom-TRA]

Half the seats face each direction! You can sit in any seat you like as long as it’s not taken by someone else, so you’ll be able to find a seat in the direction you like.

[@Prodigious1One]

Very nice train! I hope the Crescent line will have them.

[@Thom-TRA]

I don’t think they will since it’s an overnight train

[@davidfru5907]

Hi Thom, I love your channel! At the end of this video, I heard you say "You would not take business class again due to your budget". Well, if you wanted to take business class again, I will give you an upgrade coupon. Stay Great!

[@Thom-TRA]

I’d appreciate it! You’re so nice

[@yaycoffe123]

I'll be traveling on this route in two weeks I'm exited

[@Thom-TRA]

Hope this video helps answer any questions!

[@mercilessmage7300]

This is the first video review I’ve seen of the new Amtrak coaches. It’s always interesting to see what North America has to offer passengers compared to the U.K. and Europe.

[@Thom-TRA]

It seems the US is finally trying to play catch-up

[@johnburke1317]

Nice video

[@willstrainsplanes]

I lucked on those seats as well when riding the Lincoln Service to Normal last Friday!! They’re pretty dope

[@Thom-TRA]

Glad you enjoyed them!

[@willstrainsplanes]

Thanks! My upcoming video on them probably won’t be as informative as yours but I’ll do my best! In a way it felt like riding TGV or any commuter trains in Europe

[@Thom-TRA]

@@willstrainsplanes I’ll still watch it!

[@shuhima233]

Oh my GOD I love your 6:02 新幹線E6系 shirt😂😂

[@Thom-TRA]

It’s my favorite shirt

[@rgomezer]

I took the Hiawatha a couple of weeks ago for a business trip and the Venture cars were deployed in the consist with the Horizon coaches. I managed to snag a seat in a Venture car and the ride was a lot smoother than the Horizon cars I am used to especially when the train switches tracks at high speed. There was hardly any heavy vibration. Although, the automatic steps were malfunctioning so we had to get off of a Horizon car. It's also interesting that they turned on the automated announcements now. My train ride didn't have those enabled yet.

[@Thom-TRA]

I like the little chime when they do the manual announcements because it’s the same bell as NS. I rode the Hiawatha this week for the first time! It was horizons sadly

[@Cydonius1701]

Hey Thom, it's a great week for videos on your channel this week and I'm loving it! It's really nice to get a good look inside the Venture business class too, they look pretty good to me, especially the window size and power provision relative to the filleted airplanes on wheels, aka Amfleet. It struck me as really odd that they don't have carpet on the floor, I hadn't expected to find that odd. I guess that the Railjets they're based on don't have it either, but from a UK, French and German long-distance perspective it struck me as unusual. All in all, though, I definitely like them. Take care, Chris

[@Thom-TRA]

Thank you Chris! The next two weeks will be a little slower, but that’s because I will be out enjoying my travels on my USA Rail Pass. So excited!

[@dblissmn]

That is actually carpet on the floor -- the close-up shot later in the video shows that. But it surely didn't look like it to start with. Still, the lack of carpet or any other sound deadener on the walls is a bit of a shock after two generations of Amtrak applying carpet to every surface.

[@Cydonius1701]

@@dblissmn Whoops! You're quite right, that pattern looked for all the world like lino to me 😅. I like the idea of carpeting walls and ceiling too if you're meant to sleep in the seat, but it seems like unnecessary expense and weight for daytime-only coaches.

[@maxgc6413]

You two are adorable 🤓♥️

[@Thom-TRA]

Thanks! We like each other a lot

[@paulmoreno6279]

Awesome Thom! Just like Brightline coaches here in South Florida

[@pinchy08]

Siemens is on a roll with cutting edge Amtrak Railroad Technology. Those Siemens Venture Businesses class seats are amazing! It reminds me of the amazing Siemens Venture cars the Brightline trains have been 2 Siemens SCB Chargers. I can’t wait for Brightlines Orlando extension to open despite the delay.

[@Thom-TRA]

I wonder when it will open. I want to go, but am not committing to buying any tickets…

[@history_leisure]

So the current cafe car is attached to the back? Is that an Amtrak Michigan Standard or will the Venture version be place between the married coaches and the other 2 coach class cars once those enter service?

[@Thom-TRA]

The venture cafés haven’t been built yet so they’ve been running with Amfleet cafes. Not all venture cars form married pairs, so they’ll just be added to the venture consists.

[@TenMinuteTrips]

Hi Thom! My best to Mrs. Awesome!

[@MistyOLR]

… “Still breaking them in” is probably a good reason as to why I’m still not quite a fan of the new cars yet, though I don’t think I knew about how “recline” works in them before this video. Still didn’t prevent me from managing to sleep very well in both directions on my last 300/301 turn, but that was a no hotel run cuz I didn’t want to mess with a hotel cuz I was being cheap and running mostly on caffeine when I didn’t feel I could safely sleep 😅 … I’d probably also appreciate the new tables more if I had a laptop at the moment heh.

[@TotemKommo-o]

I remember riding the Lincoln Service from Bloomington-Normal to Chicago when I went home from college for breaks. I only rode in the Amfleet coach cars, and only 1 year later did they roll out the new ones on that route (which I didn't get to ride because I continued online). $16 for a 2 hour ticket felt like an absolute steal. Saved 2 hours for my mom not needing to drive down. And a 4 hour round trip ride was not happening on $16 worth of gas. At this point I'm antsy for an excuse to buy a ticket and ride one of the new Venture cars.

[@Thom-TRA]

I haven’t been on the Lincoln service yet, but you should totally try it now that they speed has been upped to 110 MPH!

[@georgeuribe3305]

I have been on the Lake Shore Limited and I can agree with your bathroom comment.

[@Thom-TRA]

I don’t get grossed out easily but that put me over the edge

[@Chronograph71]

Very nice! Thanks! It is a mystery WHY the seats look so stiff and very upright, but those are otherwise very nice wide seats with a large tray table. Good job!

[@Thom-TRA]

It’s probably just because they’re still new tbh. I like the tray tables a lot, they make working very pleasant.

[@Chronograph71]

@@Thom-TRA I suspect that the seats are so upright to ensure that passengers won't fall asleep and miss their stops. :-))) I presume that those train cars are used mostly during the daytime in Europe...

[@AT-nq6cu]

I wish Amtrak Midwest would extend to the Upper Midwest. The only train currently serving this region is the Empire Builder and according to reports, the ride from MSP to Chicago is 8 hours or so. Love those new Amtrak Venture Cars. Thank You Thom for another awesome video.

[@Thom-TRA]

The Great Rivers will begin running between Chicago and St Paul this summer or fall! It’s an extension of the Hiawatha.

[@AT-nq6cu]

@@Thom-TRA This is great news. Thank you for telling me about it. I missed the reports on the local news.

[@jameskerner7782]

you're lucky! here on the NEC, we have to wait a few years before we get to try them out! Waaaa!😪

[@Thom-TRA]

I’m so excited for the Airos

[@brianhubert8418]

These look great. Love the big windows and the roomier interiors and those business class seats look pretty solid. How's the ride quality compared to Amfleet I or IIs at the higher speeds like 110mph?

[@Thom-TRA]

The ride quality is pretty good. The new cars cancel a lot of the bumps and noise that you experience on the old cars. Plus, snow can’t come in…

[@brianhubert8418]

@@Thom-TRA Wow can’t wait to we get the Airos on the Empire Corridor and NEC. And that’s a big upgrade with the snow not being able to come in.

[@billtherailfanner455]

Nice vlog of riding in an Amtrak Midwest Siemens Venture business class car. I think it looks really cool. I know Amtrak San Joaquins will be getting these Siemens Venture cars to, with an engine on one end and a cab car at the other. I honestly wish the Amtrak Pacifc Surfliner route and routes similar that haven't ordered these cars yet would get these cars as well because they are so cool, in my opinion. I really like the restrooms on the Siemens Venture cars and the translucent shades instead of curtains, I hope more Amtrak rolling stock has translucent shades in the future. It is a shame that the Next Generation Bi-Level Passenger Cars were canceled in my opinion due to a prototype car failing a buff strength test in August 2015. But the Siemens Venture cars are awesome, too.

[@Thom-TRA]

I think the translucent shades will become more standard! They’re a lot more sanitary.

[@christophersalse485]

Unfortunately, the Lossan agency that runs the Surfliner rejected the venture cars

[@billtherailfanner455]

@Christopher Salse Oh, that sucks. Thanks for the information. I do know that the Surfliner is getting more Bi Level cars from Northern California. These are Surfliner cars but are painted into an Amtrak Northern California paint scheme, I do not mean the 8000 series cars. I know that a few NorCal Surfliner cars are already in SoCal being used on Pacific Surfliner trains, like coach cars CDTX 6462 and 6463, for example.

[@christophersalse485]

@@billtherailfanner455 They have more info on it from their online meeting from last August, you can find it on their official Pacific Surfliner KZbin channel. They’re also looking for new cars in the long term, but they’re requiring it to be bi-levels.

[@christophersalse485]

kzbin.info8Io1VFwDF3w?feature=share

[@dangelohartley5977]

Hmmm, I might need to check out Business Class then

[@Konkacha]

Very nice, when are they finally gonna get round to ditching that amfleet cafe car to complete the modern look? :)

[@Thom-TRA]

When the new cafe cars are delivered. Which might be a while…

[@OntarioTrafficMan]

When they said "next stop" in Niles, I automatically said "Dowagiac". You got me!

[@Thom-TRA]

We love trains that run 3x a day with all different stopping patterns

[@OntarioTrafficMan]

@@Thom-TRA Yeah for sure! It's good that they're able to provide some faster trips. And isn't it 4x a day including the Blue Water? It's still a bit weird that all of the trains stop in New Buffalo and in Niles, considering those are quite small towns. You'd think it was worth having at least one trip per day skip those stops to provide a faster service to Kalamazoo, Battle Creek and Detroit.

[@Thom-TRA]

@@OntarioTrafficMan I would love an express service and then a local service. I think the whole this stops here, this stops there is such a barrier for some people.

[@OntarioTrafficMan]

@@Thom-TRA Yes it definitely makes things more complicated when each trip has a different stopping pattern, rather than having well-defined "local" and "express" stopping patterns net als we in Nederland hebben

[@kingawesome8484]

Hey what day were you there on? I took Amtrak out of Chicago when the station was weird and redirected too a couple weeks ago

[@Thom-TRA]

I think it’s been weird like this for a while now

[@john_smith1471]

Interesting video, I wondered if we’d see what any catering/food/drinks /cafe availability was like, business car seat arrangement definitely spacious, I like the individual centre armrests instead of a shared one, I use armrests but dislike asking an adjacent passenger if I can pull the armrest down, is this built by Siemens in the USA/Canada or in Germany? the interior design, signage and displays look quite familiar to newer or refurbished trains in Britain.

[@Thom-TRA]

Food is the same as every other Amtrak cafe. They are built by Siemens in the US, as American law dictates.

[@kenpalmer1965]

This is a nice one! How much was the fare on this trip? I really like both the digital screens onboard as well as the automated voices. The inside of those business class cars looked really nice and comfortable. I would give anything to be able to ride on them on a fairly lengthy trip anywhere!

[@Thom-TRA]

Wolverine fares are pretty low, which is why we like taking it. It’s usually between 20 and 30 dollars.

[@kenpalmer1965]

Is that one way or round trip?

[@paulcastillo1310]

From Los Angeles California

[@RennellReed]

Do the Amtrak Medwest Ventures (4 Seater Face-to-face) have pop-up Power outlets/USB Ports? Like Brightline's.

[@Thom-TRA]

Only the outlets between the seats I think

[@user-nc5gt5ut2d]

Well maybe I am beginning to warm up to these new Venture Cars just a bit. Hopefully Amtrak can get more of these cars into service and aid in some of the sold out and nearly sold out trains. Very different to hear a recording and not the conductor thought a bad mic making amendments.

[@FrothyMeanV2]

I was amazed at how much of this ride is surrounded by forest. You go like 20 mins out of chicago and you are surrounded by trees.

[@Blank00]

hopefully the lights can be set dimmer. These lights are a lot brighter than what’s found on Amfleet, and some people can find it too bright

[@georgekarnezis4311]

It just occurred to me that if the business class car is a married pair with a coach. Then the cafe cars will be independent?? It will be interesting not having business separated by a cafe.

[@TheFarix2723]

Any specific reasons why the deployment of the business class cars was delayed for so long? I know Amtrak has had these stored at their Beech Grove facility for a while. I think all that is left for the Venture line are the cafe/dining cars.

[@Thom-TRA]

I’m not sure why they waited so long. I know the coach cars were delivered first.

[@mariovieira838]

Those cars are really nice, and very european (the 'european' thing seems to be a strong tendence in Amtrak). They seem to been based on the Railjet design. Another nice thing is the constant use of the Nathan horn (otsa grade crossings I know).

[@Thom-TRA]

Yeah these are basically the railjet but Americanized!

[@osmanjeffrey]

Did the Biz car have bar/cafe adjacent? I only saw the Amcafe at the rear of the train, Thanks for the upgrade tip, Yes, I'm one of "those people" who think Amfleet II beats Siemens coach without a doubt. Cheers and hope it's a great trip for you both.

[@Thom-TRA]

I think Amfleet II beats it too but that’s a long-distance coach. Ventures are definitely better than horizons. There’s no cafe in these, the cafe cars are coming later.

[@TheFarix2723]

The Amfleet II was designed for the long-distance interregional lines, thus the seats are supposed to become a makeshift bed for those who cannot afford a roomette. They were probably pressed into service with the state sponcered lines due to a shortage of couch cars, which the Ventures are supposed to alleviate.

[@flenomusic]

6:00 🥰👌

[@johnskeens2895]

Awesome video! I have rode the Brightline Siemens coaches, which I am sure you know are a similar, but more decked out version of these venture cars. I feel as if they are awesome cars, and new rolling stock is needed by Amtrak. Im from just south of Cleveland Ohio, so maybe these will be within reach for me soon. I'm wondering how well these do on longer trips. I'm sure we will find out soon enough. I'm an all mode travel junkie. Planes, trains, automobiles and boats too! Love the content! Love your enthusiasm for passenger rail! Keep up the good content!

[@Thom-TRA]

A travel junkie is a great thing to be. Thanks for commenting!

[@johnskeens2895]

@@TohaBgood2 Wow! This is why I never comment on social media. Did i say the passenger rail market was huge? Nope. Did i say i hate Amtrak? Nope. Did i say advantage Brightline? Nope. Don't know where you got that from. Its obvious im the dumb person compared to you, so let me clarify my self. Id rather be seated in a superliner than AMTRAK/ BRIGHTLINE seimens cars on a 12 hour pull. THAT WAS THE POINT. But what would a 3rd generation railroad employee know? Apparently nothing next to you. Unfortunately, your comments kill good content creators in this niche because people hesitate to comment on anything that has to do with trains. Just say the word and it triggers some people. It makes no sense to me. Comments help the you tube algorithms but this will be my last comment ever in the you tube platform. I don"t really have the time or energy for it. Great job on the content to the creators. I hope they keep it up. I'll still be watching, but will stay out of the comments. Peace to all.

[@variavnath624]

Business class are bit comfortable and expensive! Economic are some cheaper, Amtrak is always the best in passenger service Nice video 👍

[@kevinmaddows6171]

Tom @ 9:03 this is a small subdivision that my parents lived in right after getting married back in the seventies!

[@Thom-TRA]

Cool!

[@kevinmaddows6171]

@@Thom-TRA Next time you guys do a turn around in Kalamazoo hmu. I am 5 minutes from the station and have some lots of Amtrak stuff Ill give you. Think I told you I worked as a train/service attendant for a long time:)

[@yeeye3395]

5:53 LOL that man has NO right to be complaining. The seats on the new UK trains are LITERALLY ROCKS compared to these lol. Check out the GWR class 800 IET seats!

How long before the Venture Cafe cars are added?

[@Thom-TRA]

I don’t know unfortunately

[@bernardschmitt6389]

Wonder when the cafe cars will also be replaced

[@Thom-TRA]

I wonder the same