WASHNGTON – The national rail passenger company Amtrak plans to replace the double-deck Superliner cars on the Empire Builder, which serves Winona, and on other log-distance trains between Chicago and the West Coast. The oldest cars in the Superliner fleet date to 1975. Amtrak has asked potential manufacturers for design ideas. The new fleet would include coaches, sleepers, diners and baggage cars – and possibly new locomotives. Amtrak didn’t say whether it seeks bilevel or singe-level cars or glassed-roof lounge cars. Once Amtrak has settled on a design, it will seek competitive bids. A target to place the first new consists in service was not specificd.

Earlier: Summer target for new Winona train

Earlier: New locomotives on Empire Builder