motorvagn

A motorvagn is a self-propelled railway vehicle designed to carry passengers. It is typically powered by an internal combustion engine or an electric motor, and it often operates on light rail or regional rail lines. Unlike a conventional train, which consists of a locomotive pulling separate carriages, a motorvagn is a single unit with the engine and passenger accommodation integrated into one body. This design can offer advantages in terms of flexibility, operational efficiency, and reduced infrastructure requirements, particularly on routes with lower passenger volumes or where frequent stops are necessary.

Motorvagns can be found in various configurations, including single-car units or articulated sets composed of two or more connected carriages. They are often used for suburban services, intercity routes, and sometimes for commuter lines. The term "motorvagn" itself is of Scandinavian origin, but similar vehicles are known by different names in other parts of the world, such as railcars, multiple units, or DMUs/EMUs (Diesel Multiple Units/Electric Multiple Units). Their development has been driven by the need for more adaptable and cost-effective rail transport solutions.