Passagerartåg

Passagerartåg, or passenger trains, are trains designed to carry people rather than goods. They operate on scheduled routes within national and regional rail networks and are operated by public authorities or private rail companies. They are distinguishable from godståg, which transport freight.

Passenger services are categorized by the type of journey: pendeltåg (commuter trains) serving metropolitan areas, regionaltåg for longer regional links, fjärrtåg for intercity travel, nattåg for overnight services, and höghastighetståg on very fast corridors. Rolling stock is chosen to suit service patterns and passenger volumes.

Propulsion has shifted from steam to diesel and electric traction. Today, electric multiple units (EMUs) dominate, along with diesel multiple units (DMUs) and locomotive-hauled coaches on routes not yet electrified. High-speed services use purpose-built electric trains designed for high acceleration and comfort.

Operations rely on timetables, ticketing systems, and passenger services at stations. Tickets are available online or at stations, with reserved seating common on longer routes. Accessibility, station facilities, and real-time service information are central elements of modern passenger rail.

Rail safety and interoperability are supported by signaling and control systems, including the European Train Control System (ETCS) where implemented. In many countries, passenger rail operates under public or open-access frameworks that combine national networks with cross-border routes, requiring standardization and coordination.

In Sweden, passagerartåg include SJ’s intercity services and the X 2000 high-speed trains, as well as pendeltåg in the Stockholm region. Similar systems exist worldwide, ranging from regional commuter networks to international high-speed corridors.