Originally posted by Brains
As I have pointed out before on this forum, N.America is a train line builders dream country, basically flat with nothing much in it.
A proper modern train system could get you from the center of the continent (say Chicago) to the ocean, east, west or south in about 8 hours, imagine going to bed in Chicago and waking up by the sea, far more confortable than a 'plane, about the same door to door time uses up a lot less resources, and if properly fuunded would be a lot cheaper
The thing to be thought about now, whilst we have the time, is what will replace the car, as it's life is limited. I simply do not see Mr Average American (or Europen or anyone else) owning his own personal motorised long distance transporter a generation from now. [/B]
Hmm, never thought of N. America as flat although there is a majority of flat area.
The problem with trains versus cars is speed and infrastructure. Trains have to make frequent stops if they are going to service every part of N. America. I suppose they could be designed to run in excess of 100 mph to make up for the stop and go delays. They could also be slowed down and use a second train to mate up with the moving train temporarily for load/unload with minimal delays.
We already have a fantastic infrastructure of interstates, highways, rural roads, and even dirt roads that cars can travel. The infrastructure for trains just doesn't compare.
Another problem with that transition is the American mindset. With cars you have the freedom to travel almost anywhere in the country except for very remote areas. It's a big part of the American culture. You have control, power, and individuality in your car.
It would take a major shortage in fossil fuels and no cheap alternative to get Americans out of their cages. The pollution is a major problem but mainly in cities where cars are congested. That's why I think the cut back in cars should start there. If it slowly progresses to the countryside, that would be cool.