the us is still on top technology wise. we lead in R&D but the only problem is implementation. we could have trains as fast as japan and germany and highways like this if we really wanted them but no one is willing to spend the money and jump through the hoops with environmental studies, local government, etc. also some of these projects by foreign countries are highly unprofitable but their willing to go through with it cause they don't face the same scrutiny as here and it's also about national pride, boasting, etc