Why 50kV instead of the more afforable, more compatible and better balanced 2 x 25 kV system? edit

Does 50kV AC traction actually make sense? The japanese have invented long ago the 2x25kV AC system for better power supply of the "shinkansen" HST, then Hungary also adopted that method for more reliable power supply of rural single-track electrified railways. The 2x25kV with auto-transformer traction system avoids the excessive insulating requirements of 50kV and also avoids large voltage drops over long sections. It seems superior to straight 50kV AC in every respect. 79.120.158.116 (talk) 23:18, 23 November 2018 (UTC)Reply