 The inauguration of the high-speed "Acela Express" in late 2000 generated considerable publicity and led to major ridership gains.However, through the late 1990s and very early 21st century, Amtrak could not add sufficient express freight revenue or cut sufficient other expenditures to break even.By 2002, it was clear that Amtrak could not achieve self-sufficiency, but Congress continued to authorize funding and released Amtrak from the requirement.