Fast Track

Pre-order this comprehensive global history of high-speed rail by Christian Wolmar, described as the most insightful railway historian by The Observer. Celebrated as Britain's foremost train expert by the Guardian and regarded as the leading authority in railway studies by the Literary Review, Wolmar is known for his deep understanding of trains. As high-speed rail continues to develop, its sleek, comfortable, and eco-friendly nature marks it as the future of transport. Since the debut of Japan’s Bullet Train in the 1960s, it has become legendary for its impressive speed and precision. Following Japan's lead, the French TGV set the standard which was soon adopted by Italy, Germany, and Spain. Meanwhile, China has taken the forefront with an astonishing 30,000 miles of high-speed rail developed in less than 20 years. As high-speed rail networks expand globally, now in over 20 countries, they offer a promising solution to the environmental impacts of car and air travel. Despite their pioneering histories in rail travel, the UK and the US lag behind, with the UK boasting just 68 miles of high-speed rail and facing criticisms with HS2, while the US lacks a true high-speed line entirely. Christian Wolmar's "Fast Track" narrates the remarkable global journey of high-speed rail, showcasing the evolution from majestic steam engines like Britain’s Mallard to the cutting-edge technology of trains reaching 250 mph. This is a saga of innovation, ambition, and the influential figures who shaped the future of rail travel. All aboard!