Last week, we discussed the advantages of building maglev railways in the United States.
But, did you know that high speed railways are a sign of the future? That’s right. Many countries, especially China, are rapidly developing their transportation systems. High speed railways reduce journey times, and can efficiently transport many people. It also reduces carbon dioxide emissions as well.
In retrospect, what does that mean for the United States? Throughout the nation’s history, America was seen as the world power in much of the 20th century, extending its reach into other countries. This was during the era of imperialism. The U.S. has made many spheres of influence in various countries, including the Philippines and Central American countries. In addition, the U.S. has always been a global economic power, especially in the 20th century. However, that is soon changing.
In order for the United States to retain its status as a world power, it must quickly adapt to the changing world. This means that America must open itself to the outside world, especially the many advances existent in other countries. In other words, America must take the initiative to learn from the outside world, and adapt it into the American infrastructure in order to modernize the country and improve its economy.
This means that America should reform its transportation system. Currently, cars and planes dominate the system. This attributes to increased carbon dioxide emissions. By building high speed railways, it reduces CO2 emissions and cleans up the environment.
According to the Telegraph, China plans to build a high-speed railway network that will extend to Europe and Southeast Asia. In this scenario, passengers can board the train in London and arrive in Beijing two days later. Passengers can also continue on to Singapore, arriving in under three days. The plan to connect various different countries in Europe and Asia by high-speed rail is very astonishing. It allows more efficient and cleaner intercontinental travel, thereby reducing carbon dioxide emissions. China’s advanced high-speed railway network should propel the United States to reform its transportation system.
America, on the other hand, needs to find efficient modes of transportation. The United States can keep its status as a world power by building high speed railways. It not only allows America to efficiently transport passengers, but also allows US to clean up its air.
According to Daily Mail, the fastest train in operation for long-distance travel is the Guangzhou-Wuhan train that travels 245 miles per hour. Also, according to Slate, the fastest train in operation is the Shanghai Maglev that travels 268 miles per hour.
In addition, according to Inhabitat, Japan plans to build the world’s fastest train, at 310 miles per hour.
In the United States, there are several train routes serviced by Amtrak. But each route takes at least a day or two for a one-way journey. This is too slow.
By implementing Chinese technology onto US routes, it can help America revive its economy by generating more jobs. In addition, it also provides alternative methods of transportation.
For example, the current California Zephyr takes 2 days. However, with the current maglev technology, this 2438 mile journey can be reduced to 9-10 hours travel time (including stops). But, if America implements the 310 mile per hour train speed before Japan does, it will be further reduced to 8-9 hours.
Based on the routes Amtrak currently has in service, the distances range from 63 miles to 2728 miles. If America replaces these routes with high-speed trains, the journey time will reduce dramatically. Resulting journey times range from 30 minutes to 11 hours. And, if America manages to have 310 mph trains, it will be further reduced. As a result, travel times will range from 20 minutes to 9.5 hours. This saves time and money. It also reduces air pollution as well, and reduces the need for frequent maintenance.
Overall, high-speed trains, especially maglev, serve as cleaner and more efficient alternatives to the automobile and planes currently dominating the US transportation systems.
