How to Move More Goods Through America’s Clogged Infrastructure? Robot Trains

Human train labour is not really a big deal. Modern drivers are basically security, comms, engineering, exception handling that conveniently moves with the vehicle.

If freight trains go routinely robotic then expect to see more of this in the USA:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LHc6DrCgqTw

I remember being shocked to find out that freight shipping isn't fully automated.

I had just assumed that, well, they’re on tracks, and we have GPS and radio, so of course they’d be automatic.

I realize why it’s not that simple, but still find it surprising that automation isn’t more prevalent.

As someone who likes both trains and automation, it was also illuminating join digital railroad groups to see the perspective of railroaders, who arent typically as fond of the later, seemingly coming for their job or just makes it harder and less enjoyable.

https://archive.is/w3g9C