Damn it.
Why can't we do high speed rail in America ???
Japan debuts new bullet train that can run during an earthquake.
"It's also fitted with lithium-ion battery self-propulsion system -- This system allows the train to run for a short distance on its own during a power outage and will make it possible for it to move to a safer location at low speed if stranded in a high-risk area -- on a bridge or in a tunnel, for example -- during an earthquake."
https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/japan-new-shinkansen-model-n700s/index.html
I've been advocating for a robust rail system in the US for decades.
And the reason we don't have it is oil. And cars. Both industries have lobbied against any public funding for railways (and other public transit).
But the benefits would be numerous--creating jobs, connecting people to where jobs are, reducing stress on roads and bridges, encouraging research and invention, and yes--reducing the number of cars on the road and the amount of gas they use and pollution they create.
ProTip: If you get a second-class sleeper ticket in Europe, bring some kind of a pad, the mattresses are about a quarter-inch thick.
one more word--insurance.
the legal gambling industry would collapse--especially if universal health care is implemented at the same time.
@tyghebright @corlin
The trains in Europe are generally pretty good or better. The trains in Japan are GREAT.