Sacre Bleu: French Train Makes History

A French-built high-speed train has broken the world speed record on rail: With a 25,000 horsepower engine and special wheels, the train hit a speed of more than 357 mph. The train’s performance was close -- but was not as fast as the Japanese maglev (magnetic) train that reached 361 mph in 2003. CNBC’s Phil Lebeau joined Erin Burnett on "Street Signs" to discuss why the U.S. can’t -- or won't -- do the same thing.

“These countries have made a commitment that they want high-speed trains,” said Lebeau, adding that “never has that been a commitment in [the U.S.].” With so many crossings, he believes they would be a potential hazard that weighs down the likelihood for high-speed trains in the U.S.

“I would be surprised if we ever see one of these trains in this country. There is not the degree of interest like there is in Europe,” said Lebeau.