Passenger rail remains an afterthought in the United States compared with much of Europe and Asia. Rail accounts for just 0.25% of U.S. passenger travel, compared with 28% in Japan, 10% in France and 6.4% in Germany. 

Amtrak hopes its new Airo fleet can begin closing that enormous gap. The $8 billion refresh will introduce 83 cleaner, more comfortable trainsets capable of reaching 125 mph. The trains should improve reliability, increase capacity and shorten some trips, including eliminating lengthy locomotive changes in Washington, D.C. 

Amtrak has recently posted record ridership, suggesting Americans may use trains when service is practical. Still, newer equipment alone cannot overcome infrequent schedules, limited routes and aging infrastructure. 

The Airo fleet is a welcome improvement, but catching the rest of the world will require much more than a better-looking train.