It is an exciting time for us at the moment in terms of exhibitions. This month alone has seen Rail Vehicle Enhancements UK, Elmia Sweden and APTA USA all taking place within the same two weeks. Next month we have Railway Interiors Prague, so we thought that now is a good time to take stock and think about how far the industry has come along in less than 100 years.

We unearthed some fascinating promotional material from British Pathé who were at the forefront of cinematic journalism, before TV advertising became commonplace.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7JcJL7aWlNs

In the video’s opening scene, the 1930 German ‘Railway Zeppelin’ concept is featured. Attaining a top speed of 151 km/h (94 mph) was impressive for the technology of 87 years ago; however, with electrification and digitalisation, present day top speeds for domestic high rail German services can reach up to 320 km/h (200 mph).

While October has been exciting for Forbo Flooring in terms of exhibitions, September 2017 delivered news that could disrupt the rail industry on a global scale in terms of setting the bar for competition. China officially launched the world’s fastest bullet train that can reach speeds of 350 km/h (217 mph) meaning that passengers will be able to travel from Beijing to Shanghai, a 1,250 km journey (777 miles) in under five hours.[1]

A few months ago it may have been considered the stuff of futurism, but Elon Musk’s Hyperloop One project is marching closer to reality and September saw the company announce 10 routes on which services are planned to launch. Its inaugural 3 routes are rumoured to become operational as soon as 2021.[2]

Having travelled so far in the last century, rail travel continues its exciting journey and progress is showing no signs of slowing down.

[1] http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/09/21/watch-china-launches-worlds-fastest-bullet-train/

[2] http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-4885656/Hyperloop-One-reveals-10-potential-routes-world.htm

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Forbo Flooring Systems offers a truly comprehensive and compliant flooring product portfolio for the rail sector along with global advice and support with cross border project management. Within the portfolio are entrance systems, linoleum floors, textile carpets, flocked flooring as well as adhesives, accessories and installation tools. The widest range of design and colourway options, giving you a world of choice. If you prefer something totally unique, our experienced in-house design team will work with you to deliver custom made solutions.

Look on our website to learn more about our rail product portfolio, to download brochures and to order actual samples.

Railway Interiors Expo 2017 – 15th – 16th November 2017 – Prague, Czech Republic

Railway Interiors Expo is the international showcase of everything within a railcar, from seating and materials, lighting, washroom facilities and flooring to composites, infotainment systems and security concepts.

VISIT US AT BOOTH 2018
www.railwayinteriors-expo.com