As TfL begins tracking passengers through mobile Wi-Fi networks on the London Underground, what is being done to quell concerns around privacy and consent? We explore the potential benefits and pitfalls of tracking passengers’ digital footprint in this brand new issue of Future Rail.

We also find out why cases of cable theft are rising on the railways, ask whether a new ‘Adaptable Carriage’ concept could revolutionise train carriages, and explore the benefits of very light rail through the sphere of an innovative new project spearheaded by the University of Warwick.

Also in this issue: we take a closer look at the relationship between freight rail and small businesses in the US, map out the legacy of the world’s most famous funicular railways, and track the key milestones of the Single European Railway Area in an interactive timeline feature.

Joe Baker, editor.