Trains have been around for hundreds of years. Developed as an easy way to transport people and freight across land, trains have revolutionised the way we work and play.
Although trains are an easy way of getting from A to B nowadays, their benefits go far beyond that. As a green, cost-effective, efficient mode of travel, it’s no wonder the UK population makes over hundreds of millions of rail journeys each quarter.
Yet the future of train travel has plenty more in store. Read on to find out about how the world of rail is set to tip on its head.
How is rail predicted to change?
- Growth of electric
Just like in the automotive sector, electric power is set to become increasingly prevalent in the rail industry. It’s estimated that ¾ of passenger rail transport occurs on electric trains, with this set to rise as time goes on. However, although many trains are now electric, there’s still a long way until we catch up with other European nations like the Netherlands.
But is electrification good? Well, yes, on the whole. They tend to have quicker acceleration, lower fuel costs and are far better for the environment.
However, that doesn’t mean they’re without issues. Electric trains are powered through overline equipment, which is much more susceptible to power surges, damaged wires or bad weather. Although nobody likes their train to be delayed due to storms, the good news is that most operators have railway insurance to get the trains up and running again! Â
- Digitalisation
Like much of the world, trains are also going digital! As well as adopting magnetic levitation to reduce friction slowing them down, trains are increasingly using technology to improve the passenger experience.
From high-speed trains to virtual tickets and railcards, many rail operators are making the switch to digital.
- The introduction of HS2
If you haven’t already heard of the HS2, it’s a high-speed railway that is expected to transform Britain’s rail network. Connecting towns and cities in the South, Midlands and North with fast yet reliable trains, it’s predicted to modernize the world of rail. Â
Final thoughts
The future of rail is exciting. Not a sector to be left behind, the rail industry is evolving constantly, striving to keep up with society’s need to stay connected. From going green to HS2 and even things as simple as being able to access and buy tickets online, the future of rail looks bright.