Dr. Alan James

United Kingdom

Following a PhD focussing on the shifts in technological and political power in the post-war period, Dr Alan James became known as one of Europe's leading experts in strategic economic development.  He has advised cities, regions and countries on how to capture and communicate competitive advantage in the global economy.   From his work in this field, it was becoming increasingly apparent that slow and outdated North:South transport links were condemning Northern England and Scotland to economic marginalisation, in contrast to the growing role of London as a true World City. 

Recognising that radical intervention was required, and that Britain's lack of sunk investment in 300 km/h TGV-style railways creates a unique opportunity to 'leapfrog' a technological generation,  Alan assembled the team which developed UK Ultraspeed: the world's first fully-planned, full-scale intercity maglev project. 

Ultraspeed will bring 500 km/h (311mph) ground transport to  Britain, using the German Transrapid maglev technology.  As Chief Executive of the Ultraspeed pre-project company, Alan coordinates the multidisciplinary teams of specialists involved in planning, financing and communicating this radically new infrastructure project.   He is the key spokesman for Ultraspeed, presenting directly to political and business leaders and, via extensive TV and print media exposure, to the public.

UKU Ultraspeed Project

http://www.500kmh.com/

James, Alan: "Faster, Better, Cheaper & Greener"

"UK Ultraspeed and the Case for Transrapid Maglev Versus High Speed Rail" in: Railway Technology International, 2009