At a recent panel discussion in San Francisco, rail professionals gathered to discuss the advancements and successes of high-speed rail systems in Japan, France, and Germany. The event, part of the American Public Transportation Association’s high-speed rail day, shed light on how these countries have effectively integrated high-speed transport into their broader transportation networks.
Tomoyuki Minami of Central Japan Railway Company opened the discussion with an overview of Japan’s renowned Shinkansen, or bullet train, which carries around 350 million passengers annually. With an impressive safety record, Japan’s high-speed trains have not seen any passenger injuries since their inception in 1964. Minami pointed out that punctuality is paramount—being a minute late is considered a major malfunction in the system.
The Shinkansen’s resilience is evident in its ability to withstand significant earthquakes, a feat achieved through innovations like automatic train-stopping technology triggered by seismic activity. Recently, they have added guard rails designed to prevent trains from derailing during emergencies, thereby enhancing the system’s safety features.
Frequency of service is another critical aspect of Shinkansen’s success. Minami emphasized that having trains arrive every minute during peak periods significantly contributes to ridership levels, equating it with the efficiency of typical metro systems. Alongside this frequent service, the trains also boast impressive speeds, often operating near 200 mph.
Transitioning to the French experience, Alain Leray, President & CEO of SNCF America, recounted the origins of France’s TGV system, which began operations between Paris and Lyon in 1981. France maintains its status as a pioneer in the high-speed rail sector, holding the speed record for the fastest steel-wheel-on-steel-rail train, having reached 357 mph in 2007.
Leray noted the vision of former President Charles de Gaulle in 1966, establishing the foundation for high-speed rail in France as a means to ‘shrink France’s geography.’ Initial development began with the construction of the TGV-001 in 1972, but faced challenges during the 1973 oil crisis, which prompted questions about its energy source. Despite initial setbacks, engineers successfully converted the prototype train to run on electric power, capitalizing on France’s nuclear energy resources.
When the TGV began service in 1981, it became clear that political will across the spectrum was vital for the project’s realization. Leray highlighted the importance of a bipartisan commitment to high-speed rail in comparison to the politicized nature of similar projects in the United States. He criticized California’s 2008 Prop. 1A measure, which authorized only $10 billion for the development of a high-speed rail between San Francisco and Los Angeles, a fraction of what was necessary for successful completion.
The French model showcases a seamless integration of high-speed rail into existing transportation networks. Leray stressed that innovations should not only focus on speed but should involve bringing existing technologies quickly to market. As he underscored the necessity for interoperability within the rail system, he noted that the ability to blend high-speed trains with conventional lines was essential in providing comprehensive transport options across France.
Jean-Marc Kuntz, Executive Vice President of Colas Rail, echoed this sentiment, contrasting the efficient French transport network with the disjointed system in the U.S. Sharing his experiences from Strasbourg to California, Kuntz described a seamless transfer from a TGV to an international flight within two hours, something that American travelers often lack. Upon arrival at LAX, he pointed out that options beyond rental cars and buses are severely limited, creating a need for cars in contrast to the more integrated French system where high-speed rail plays a central role.
Thorsten Krenz of Deutsche Bahn (DB), representing Germany’s high-speed Inter City Express (ICE), further highlighted the importance of network integration. He shared the collaborative relationship between Lufthansa and DB, allowing for effortless transfers from flights to high-speed trains, metro systems, or buses—all on a single ticket.
Krenz described the American rail system’s challenge of forcing passengers to adapt to the transport options, stating that successful rail systems provide comprehensive door-to-door mobility solutions, including bicycle and bus access at stations. He remarked that travel should be made easier and less stressful, advocating for a focus on simple and effective functionality rather than aiming for extravagant station designs.
In conclusion, the insights shared at this panel illustrated vital lessons from the high-speed rail successes in Japan, France, and Germany. The emphasis on safety, frequency, interoperability, and a bipartisan political commitment to transport infrastructure emerged as recurring themes essential for developing a robust rail network.
With the potential to alleviate congestion, connect regions, and promote an interconnected transportation ecosystem, the implementation of such lessons in the American rail system could pave the way for a transformation in public transport options. Ultimately, the discussions emphasized that the future of high-speed rail should prioritize practical mobility solutions that enhance rider experience over the allure of technical advancements alone.
image source from：sf
