IndexTechnology (transportation)Technological development of transportation in the United StatesTechnological Advances in TransportationBenefits of Technological Advances in TransportationImpact of Technological Advances in TransportationConclusionTechnology (Transportation)Over Over over the centuries, the evolution of transport depends heavily on technological progress. Developments in transportation technology have served to shape transportation systems. From motive power technology to innovative transportation, communication and control systems, they have all led to a progressive approach in moving passengers and cargo around the world. Therefore, it is important to note the evolution of various technologies and their influence on human life, culture and environmental landscape. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original EssayTransportation Technology Development in the United StatesIn the United States, inventors and entrepreneurs developed transportation systems for faster movement of people and goods in the early 19th century (“Transportation Technology,” par. 6-7). They repaired and improved human and animal power up to locomotives and ships powered by steam engines (par. 3). In 1807, Robert Fulton launched the first commercially recognized steamboat (para. 7). His innovation made it possible to transport thousands of passengers and tons of cargo across the sea over a long distance in a short period. In 1830 the first commercial railways began operating (para. 9). American inventors modified British designs into efficient, fast locomotives. Bridges and tunnels were developed to pave the way for railroad tracks, and by the end of the century, railroads carried about 500 million passengers and about 690 million tons of freight (para. 9). During this period, steam locomotives were recognized as the most efficient means of transportation. Despite their efficiency, within cities they posed a threat and this led to the invention of carriages and road vehicles within cities. During the 20th century, inventors developed and exploited old and new transportation technologies. Both internal combustion and electric engines have been incorporated into transportation machinery (para. 13). Steam locomotives now ran on diesel while moving along electrified tracks. The number of goods has increased while the capacity of human labor has decreased to set the locomotives in motion. At sea, oil energy has replaced coal and fuel. This led to the development of commercial fishing boats and pleasure craft (paras. 14-15). In the automotive industry, cars and tracks have moved from steam to gasoline and electric technology. Gasoline-powered automobiles became the preferred choice due to two vital factors: first, internal combustion engines were lighter and more efficient than steam engines, and second, new oil discoveries influenced a steady and plentiful supply of cheap petrol. The first factor, internal combustion, made possible the invention of the airplane which led to advances in aircraft design and piston engines for higher, faster, and farther flight. Now, in the 21st century, cockpit, bridge, and control tower technologies have seen extensive advancements to improve transportation (paras. 18-19). On the other hand, the computerization of electronic devices in the transmission, ignition, combustion and exhaust systems of locomotives, automobiles and aircraft revolutionized the transportation system during this period. Technological advancesin transportation In a journal published by UCONNECT, emerging technologies are transforming transportation planning, design, and operating systems (“Transportation Technologies for the 21st Century” par. 1). Transportation systems have made it possible to control traffic, detect accidents, assist in ticket collection, and manage transit systems and traffic signs. As a matter of fact, such progress has a progressive and dynamic character with the aim of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving the quality of the atmosphere and promoting economic development. On the other hand, the transition from steam locomotives to electric ones became possible thanks to technological progress. As a result, automotive technology that enables all-round vision and information-gathering systems as part of safety systems have helped regulate road carnage. Additionally, computerized automotive systems have made it possible for vehicles to connect to each other and to the infrastructure through an Internet connection with computers, smartphones, and wireless communication systems. Equally important, new technologies in the aviation industry have made fuel efficiency in planes possible. Benefits of technological advancement in transportation Technological upgrading in trains has led to improved performance and energy efficiency (Advancements in Transportation, par. 2). Furthermore, the operating cost of electric trains is cheaper than diesel ones and they are environment-friendly. Electric trains do not produce gas, which can pollute the atmosphere. Equally important, magnetic levitation (MagLev) trains float above the tracks, thus eliminating possible friction between the train and the tracks. In particular, in the automotive sector, the design of battery management systems ensures high performance and extends life (Crawford, para. 5). New battery chemistries and subsystem technologies have emerged to expand operational range and reduce costs. Furthermore, downsizing and turbocharging have both thermodynamic and mechanical advantages. The downsized engines are lighter than conventional ones, thus reducing vehicle mass and improving fuel consumption. On the other hand, turbocharging retains the energy of the exhaust gases to aid charge induction (para. 8). Additionally, engineers have developed advanced combustion technologies to increase the efficiency of internal combustion engines (para. 9). Because of this, levels of carbon emissions and road carnage have reduced while safety levels in transportation have increased due to technological improvements. Impact of Technological Advances in Transportation The impact of computerized and wireless capabilities in transportation has created a potentially positive and negative transportation atmosphere ( Emerging Technology Trends in Transportation, p. 3). From a positive perspective, technological progress has influenced travel patterns by increasing the demand for transportation through the facilitation of independent personal mobility which increases productivity (p. 4). Furthermore, the advent of transportation applications for taxi and transit services via smartphones has led to new ways of carrying out transportation activities and services with customers (p. 7). As an illustration, the Uber Transport service, which operates in 58 countries and 311 cities, has shown strong demand for its service, thanks to its fast responsiveness and affordable costs (p.7). On the other hand, the negative impacts of technological developments in transport are considerable. First of all. In the case of insurance coverage, technology in the transportation sector ensures more precise and informed decisions.