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The Beginning
Early models of trains have been cited throughout history, from Greek transport rails to medieval funicular railways. However, although these may be technically classified as trains, this timeline will focus on the modern history of trains and how they have adapted. Innovations during this time period led to the first true steam train, which is where the steam age began. -
William Murdoch's Steam Locomotive
William Murdoch proposed a prototype steam locomotive in 1784, and began testing it on some rails. Unfortunately, it did not function correctly, but he did provide the fundamental principles for steam powered trains. -
The First Steam Locomotive
The first working steam locomotive was built by English engineer Thomas Trevithick in 1804, using parts derived from previous innovations in the primitive era of the steam age. This locomotive was not intended for passenger transport, albeit it was used to haul small quarries along a small track. It was powered by high-pressure steam driving a one-stroke engine, with a flywheel to stabilise the piston rod. A large black and ugly thing, it nevertheless changed the future of transport forever. -
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The Steam Age
The Steam Age was a long period in which steam trains faced multiple large-scale developments. Transitioning from small quarries to large numbers of passengers was a big leap, but the public favoured steam trains for their space and speed. The most prestigious trains in the world are generally steam locomotives, such as the Orient Express and more. Steam trains dominated the market for all purposes until the late 1930s, which introduced diesel and electric trains. -
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Advent of Electric and Diesel Trains
Electric and diesel trains were innovated throughout the 19th century, but didn't catch on quickly due to their lack of reliability and safety. -
Change to Electric and Diesel Transport
Diesel trains are powered similarly to a car, with an engine fuelled by diesel, while electric trains are touching a constant power supply to motors. They were faster, had higher performance specs, and were cheaper, allowing governments to purchase them for short travel options within a city. This led to the rapid industrialisation in transport and a departure from the luxury options that were predominant at the time. -
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Electric and Diesel Era
During this period these trains became more and more used, and are still used today, although slightly more developed. -
High Speed Trains
In 1970, the 0-series Shinkansen was unveiled in Japan, which permanently revolutionised long-distance rail transport. It travelled at 270 km/h and connected the major hotspots of Japan. Other countries soon caught on, with China and Europe employing the new technologies in their own areas. -
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Modern Day Trains
In terms of high-speed travel, the Shinkansen and other high-speed instalments such as the 高铁 (Gao tie, chinese bullet train) have developed so much that intercity travel has become incredibly easy and cheap. The safety standards are extremely high and it is incredibly prevalent in many countries. However, even basic passenger and freight trains are still being developed to become more efficient than ever before. Many trains have a refined aesthetic and train travel remains a great option. -
Sydney's trains
Older trains within the Sydney transport system are being phased out, and trains called Waratah A and B sets have being introduced to handle the suburban lines. Furthermore, new intercity trains (Mariyung D set) are being introduced along with a driverless metro, incorporating a multitude of design elements to modernise the existing systems.