In a future where 75% of people live in cities, the world’s population stands at 9.5 billion and there are advances in technology that can only be dreamed about today, the Future of Rail 2050 takes a user's perspective and explores how rail travel might change for passengers and freight.

  • What are the megatrends that will influence the way people live, work, travel and consume information in the future?
  • How will future train infrastructure and systems cope with the rising demand for passenger and freight capacity?
  • How will rail fare in a world experiencing an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events?

In the past, we have witnessed rail’s power to stimulate and drive economic growth. In some parts of the world it's seen as essential for economic diversification and supporting policy, and can be a catalyst for regeneration. The Future of Rail 2050 is a thought piece created by Arup Rail and Foresight + Research + Innovation, with input from contributors from across the world.

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Future of Rail 2050
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