Why high-speed rail may not work the best in the U.S.
Published:Dec 26, 2025 17:34
•1 min read
•Fast Company
Analysis
The article discusses the challenges of implementing high-speed rail in the United States, contrasting it with its widespread adoption globally, particularly in Japan and China. It highlights the differences between conventional, higher-speed, and high-speed rail, emphasizing the infrastructure requirements. The article cites Dr. Stephen Mattingly, a civil engineering professor, to explain the slow adoption of high-speed rail in the U.S., mentioning the Acela train as an example of existing high-speed rail in the Northeast Corridor. The article sets the stage for a deeper dive into the specific obstacles hindering the expansion of high-speed rail across the country.
Key Takeaways
- •High-speed rail is prevalent globally, but less so in the U.S.
- •Different speed classifications exist for rail: conventional, higher-speed, and high-speed.
- •The Acela train in the Northeast Corridor is an example of existing high-speed rail in the U.S.
Reference
“With conventional rail, we’re usually looking at speeds of less than 80 mph (129 kph). Higher-speed rail is somewhere between 90, maybe up to 125 mph (144 to 201 kph). And high-speed rail is 150 mph (241 kph) or faster.”