Steam engines haven't been the primary method of travel for decades, but the technology and its modern applications continue to evolve in certain industries.

Steam has powered trains, cars, boats, and trolleys. Here's the story of the little engine that could.

In addition to trains, the steam engine technology can be used to create “self-contained energy generation units” that could be shipped to the developing world, including the torrifier.

The potential for the new technology was limitless. A cottage economy of tinkerers and engineers took to their barns. Pioneers like Thomas Newcomen and James Watt created ever-improving steam engines.

Puffing Billy, the first new steam engine - built at Wylam Colliery around 1813 - remains the oldest surviving steam locomotive in the world, and remains on display at London's Science Museum.