Interactive Reading — Transport

High-speed rail can transport passengers at speeds exceeding three hundred kilometres per hour, making it a competitive alternative to short-haul flights. When travel time to and from airports is included, trains are often faster on routes under eight hundred kilometres. High-speed rail competes with flights because ___. A) train tickets are always cheaper B) total travel time is often shorter for medium distances C) trains can fly over obstacles D) airports have been closing in many countries

Congestion pricing charges drivers a fee to enter busy city centres during peak hours. Cities that have implemented this system, such as London and Stockholm, have reported significant reductions in traffic and improvements in air quality. However, critics argue it disproportionately affects lower-income drivers. Critics of congestion pricing argue it ___. A) increases traffic in city centres B) is too complicated to implement C) disproportionately affects lower-income drivers D) has no effect on air quality

Electric buses are becoming increasingly popular in cities around the world. They produce no tailpipe emissions, are quieter than diesel buses, and have lower operating costs over their lifetime. The main barrier to wider adoption is the high initial purchase price compared with conventional buses. The main barrier to adopting electric buses is ___. A) their noise levels B) a lack of routes for them to follow C) the high initial purchase price D) their higher emissions compared to diesel

Cycling infrastructure, including dedicated bike lanes and secure parking, encourages more people to use bicycles for daily commuting. Cities that invest in cycling infrastructure typically see fewer car trips, lower emissions, and health benefits from increased physical activity among residents. Cycling infrastructure leads to ___. A) more car trips in the city B) fewer car trips and lower emissions C) higher costs for public transport D) increased air pollution from bicycles

Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft have disrupted the traditional taxi industry by offering on-demand transport through smartphone apps. While they provide convenience and often lower prices, concerns have been raised about driver working conditions, insurance coverage, and the impact on public transport usage. Concerns about ride-sharing services include ___. A) their inability to use smartphone technology B) higher prices than traditional taxis C) driver working conditions and impact on public transport D) a shortage of passengers using the service

Autonomous delivery robots are being tested in several cities to transport small packages and groceries directly to customers' doors. These battery-powered vehicles navigate pavements using sensors and cameras, reducing the need for delivery vans in residential areas and potentially cutting last-mile delivery costs. Autonomous delivery robots aim to reduce ___. A) the size of packages that can be delivered B) the need for delivery vans and last-mile costs C) the number of customers ordering online D) battery technology development costs