The Transport Revolution Jeremiah Ho, Liu Mengxi, Low Jin Siang 1

Contents Introduction to transport History of transport Modern-day transport A comparison – past and present Futuristic transport – solutions to current problems 2

The Transport Revolution It happened during the 18th-19th century. There were drastic changes to the transport sector, transport services were improved, as well as the costs of transport.

Origins There is a reason for every revolution There are two causes of the transport revolution, which played a significant role in economic development by contributing to both globalization and industrialization. 4

Technological Change Technology brought about the transport revolution. At about the same period of time, industrial revolution also happened. It was the time that major sectors of our life changed. 5

In industrial revolution, machines could do the tasks which were performed by human. This increased the productivity and efficiency. The development of stream power, engine, and electrical power gave rise to a change in the way we live. 6

There is a closed relationship between and industrial revolution and transport revolution. With the powerful engines, large amount of cargo can be transported for a long distance in shorter time. 7

Organizational Change During 18 th century, organizations called turnpike trusts were set up to maintain roads by using money collected from tolls on the roads. They are appointed by the government and have authority over a particular road. 8

More organizations like shipping companies were set up, which make up the transport system. These organizations were found to reduce the costs of transport by around 40%. 9

However, technology contributes to the effectiveness of such organizations. Therefore, both technological and organizational change plays a part in ushering in the transport revolution.

Modern Transport The most important component of today’s transport is the motor or engine.

Why is it important? In today’s world, transportation is part of our every single day. The world functions on fast and efficient transport, though most people tend to take it for granted. Just imagine life without the engine -no cars, buses or trains -coming to school would be a chore (or is it already one?)

Without the engine, transport would be slow and inefficient. This would not be able to cope with the requirements of the modern world. For example, food products made in a factory needs to be shipped to a consumer market quickly to be sold as fresh as possible.

We depend on transport Specialization: production and consumption occurs at different places Expansion: people start to move around. The modern household suggests that we are more dependent on transport than in the past.

Continuum There are two extreme types of households: Specialised and non-specialised. The average household is in between. To be part of society, a household must specialise its occupations, education and social activities. The extent of specialisation is dependent on the amount of resources.

Take a look… MenWomen Activity Work Travel Family Travel Leisure Travel Total

People work further away from home as compared to the past. Transport is also important in many other areas: Tourism and commerce

Problem! Due to our large dependence on transport, a lot of space is used to build the infrastructures that support it. Transport is also one of the largest energy consumer, our fuel reserves are depleting way too fast, making transport sustainability a problem.

Present…better than past? Past VS Present What’s the difference now as compared to before or during the early stages of the transport revolution?

Compare and Contrast Definitely better in some aspects –Time taken for travel –Comfort –More stable and reliable –More organized and safe

However… –Congestions getting more severe –Fuel prices are high, and increasing – stronger financial burden in maintainance –There are several social implications. –Pollution is on the rise

Congestions Usually occurs during rush hours In some places, roads are not enough for handling the busy moments Waste of fuel and time for many people trapped in the congestion

Beijing Olympics Beijing faced severe traffic congestions During Olympics, the odd-even system was used to reduce traffic by about 45% After the Olympics, conditions revert back to ‘normal’

Fuel prices

Social aspects Transport can now be used, though the effect is subtle, as a class divide. In commercial aircrafts, we have a seats that differ by class and pricing. Transport can also be used to reflect one’s social status. Rich people have luxurious while the poor may not even have one.

People are also beginning to become more impatient. This is most probably caused by the fast pace of transport, which has sped up the pace of life. Waiting for a train for 10 minutes brings more frustrations now.

Pollution Air pollution – mainly from factories and vehicles Overuse of fuels – reserves running out in decades Bad for health and environment

The transport sector has created many jobs such as bus drivers, deliverymen, shipping port staff and pilots. Fast transport has also been crucial for fast rescue with ambulances, fire engines and helicopters.

The future Solutions to above problems Other possible developments

The green vehicle Developed by ONCL

The green vehicle Same technology can be applied to other transport systems Saves energy, resources and enhances

Energy source development Solar power Nuclear power

Possible Developments Trains – beyond maglev Increased vehicle mobility Aircraft improvements Space travel (and living???)

Trains Fastest and quietest train: maglev Possible improvements –Turning

Increased vehicle mobility 3D roads, with floating vehicles Vehicles can go in all 6 directions Saves space on land for more development

Aircraft Possible developments: –Use less fuel, conserve energy –Made more economically viable, faster –More unified air traffic control system

Question… Will there be a next transport revolution?

Space travel Living in outer space in future may be possible –Space and resource constraint on Earth

References 39