Travel Time Evolution explores how transportation technology has dramatically reshaped human mobility and society. It examines the history of transportation, from early forms to modern aviation and rail, detailing how innovations have reduced travel times, impacting urbanization, global trade, and cultural exchange. The book uniquely quantifies travel time reduction across eras, highlighting how advancements compressed space and time, creating a more interconnected world.
The book begins by establishing pre-industrial travel limitations and then analyzes key periods of innovation, such as the steam engine revolution and the rise of automobiles. For example, the railroad boom of the 19th century and commercial aviation in the 20th century are detailed to show how these breakthroughs reshaped global trade. It progresses to examining current trends like high-speed rail and autonomous vehicles, while also addressing the environmental and social costs associated with modern transportation systems.