Train Innovations

High-Speed Rails

High-speed rails have taken off throughout Europe and Japan. They provide a comfortable, fast-paced way to travel. Although there is an argument about which trains actually qualify as “high speed,” it is agreed that high-speed rails are emerging as the most convenient way to get from here to there. These trains generally travel between cities because they move so fast. Often, travel by high-speed train costs much more money than travel by normal trains, but this is because the trains travel much faster than normal ones.

Most high-speed rails look different than traditional ones. They have a much slimmer “nose” on the front and look more high-tech. This is a result of the aerodynamic, lightweight styling which allows them to move faster than the average train. The actual tracks aren’t any different than typical train tracks; they are just reinforced for safety.

High-speed rails were first invented in the 1960’s in Japan. The “bullet trains” that went between islands drew attention from the entire world. The idea caught on and in Europe in the 1980’s most countries developed their own high-speed railways. Today most European countries have continued to modernize and as a result have very sophisticated rail systems. European countries, including France, Italy, Germany, and Spain, each have their own train services that will take people from one city to another. The Chunnel, which connects London to Paris, is one of the best-known of these technological advances.

Until recently high-speed trains existed only in other countries. However, Amtrak recently opened Acela Express which links Boston, New York, Washington D.C. and other major cities. It has been widely marketed to business people because of its efficiency: travelers can make it from Boston to New York in less than four hours. Because of the success of Acela Express, other parts of the United States are considering creating their own high-speed trains. There are groups in many states that are petitioning and lobbying in favor of high-speed trains.

Auto Train

The newest trend in traveling by train is auto trains. This special train allows travelers to bring their car along with them on vacation. The cars are stored in a special location so that travelers can kick back and enjoy the ride without having to worry about fighting traffic or getting lost.

The only auto train service in the United States is provided by Amtrak, and it travels from Virginia to Florida. There are auto train services throughout Europe.

Auto train tips are generally more expensive than regular train trips because passengers are paying to move their car in addition to themselves. However, when one considers the cost of gas and transportation for the entire family, the initially high cost may not seem so bad. Auto train cars have the same amenities as normal trains including lounge cars and different classes of seats. Travelers can also get sleepers.