Railcars

Railcar is a term used for a railway vehicle that travels on rails. In passenger service, railcars are typically self-propelled, carrying their own propulsion and control systems, which allows operation without a separate locomotive. In some contexts, railcar can also refer to a single passenger coach within a multi-car train. The usage and terminology vary by country.

Passenger railcars are often built as diesel or electric powered units. They include diesel multiple units (DMUs) and electric multiple units (EMUs), which are sets of self-propelled cars that may operate with or without a separate locomotive. Some configurations use a driving cab at one or both ends, enabling continuous operation in either direction. Railcars are commonly paired with non-powered trailers to form longer trainsets. Modern DMUs and EMUs prioritize energy efficiency, passenger comfort, accessibility, and safety.

Freight and maintenance railcars cover a broader category. Self-propelled freight cars exist for local movements or specialized services, while many rail operations rely on conventional locomotives and non-powered freight cars for long-haul work. Additionally, maintenance-of-way and service railcars are used for track inspection, snow removal, ballast handling, and utility duties. Standard freight cars such as boxcars, gondolas, tank cars, and flatcars remain fundamental for general cargo transportation, though some regions employ self-propelled variants for specific tasks.

Design and operation of railcars typically rely on standard track gauge, compatible couplers, and bogies. Propulsion can be diesel, electric (via overhead lines or third rail), or hybrid, with distributed or concentrated traction. Over time, railcar technology has evolved from steam-hauled passenger coaches to compact, high-capacity DMU/EMU fleets suited to regional, commuter, and high-density urban transit.