The undefined train network has existed since the 1800s, and the subway is extremely old. Many of the trains that run on the Underground are old as well. Because of this, the trains that run on several lines are slowly being undefined, starting with the Piccadilly line. This raises another question: How do we determine the best use for trains?
Trains can travel over long distances, or short ones, so what is the best distance to ride a train? Trains should be ridden when travel by car would require many stops to refuel, but travel by plane would be an hour or less. Planes require tons of energy to run, and a short flight could end up as a major waste of gas. However, trains aren’t always the best idea. A subway is great for public transit, but are often run down and unsafe. Trains should have cars that can be walked through, making it feel more spacious. There should also be good seats for the passengers. Older systems should be repaired and renovated. However, trains are good for city transit in crowded places as well. We need trains of all kinds, but they all should be good quality, like the new version of the Piccadilly line.
Long distance passenger trains already exist in America, but they are slow. ‘Fast’ ones, like the Amtrack Acela, which is the only current high speed train in the USA can only reach up to 160 mph, while a true bullet train may do 220 or more. There are, however, a few trains under construction that may be the key, although not that fast. This is a step in the right direction. With both speed and comfort, trains can make transportation easier than ever.
Trains are also great for another reason: they are clean. Electric trains often go faster than gas ones, although lacking torque. That is why many passenger trains are zero emission, but cargo ones are usually not. Electric trains are a good middle ground between planes and cars. They use less fuel, and are also just as fast if not faster than cars. Even in the US, where trains are not common, innovation is starting to change the few trains that do exist. China and Europe have been developing modern trains that will make travel so much faster, while the US is lagging behind.
Some say the construction of a rail system takes up too many resources, but in the end, rails pay off. Roads lead to lots of emissions, but trains are more energy efficient.