New technologies, such as Internet of Things (IoT) devices and Artificial Intelligence (AI), are generally created to transform new transportation modes. However, digitization may soon change the fortunes of trains, having witnessed very little transformation since the first industrial revolution. The technology behind autonomous cars is very strong and may soon enable a similar transformation in the railways.

That’s right, the trains may soon have a real chance at becoming the transportation of choice for long-distance travel. New digital processes may pave the way for rail companies to increase the capacity of their networks, enabling people to reach their destinations sooner. 

Konux, a leading artificial intelligence and Internet of Things company, provides smart sensor systems and AI-based analytics to deliver actionable insights and enable predictive maintenance. The company is one of the many new-age firms that are enabling the fourth industrial revolution and it is likely to come up as one of the few catalysts to spur the tech-advancement in railways.  

The company is funded by Rajat Khare-led Boundary Holding, which invests in companies integrating revolutionizing technologies. The investment firm is backed by years of experience and know-how of investing in AI-based start-ups. Such companies are going to play a pivotal role to increase the efficiency of emerging technologies.

In railways, the integration of technology could certainly impact the future of trains big time, making them more comfortable, energy-efficient, safer and faster than cars over long distances. For instance, a recent US study shows that high-speed trains are up to eight times more efficient than commercial planes.

Going by all the data points available, it won’t be an exaggeration to say that autonomous trains may become more efficient than the autonomous cars in the long run.While low network capacities and traffic bottlenecks are still holding up progress in the rail industry, the changing paradigm is likely to seal the deal for the sector in near future.