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Multiple units (MUs) vs. loco-hauled trains |
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| Multiple units (MUs) with distributed traction allow for a more efficient space utilisation than locomotive-hauled trains. This leads to a number of advantages including the improvement of energy efficiency.
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Technology field: Space utilisation
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General information
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General criteria
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Environmental criteria
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Economic criteria
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Application outside railway sector (this technology is railway specific)
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Overall rating
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Overall potential: very promising |
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Time horizon: short-term |
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MU stock is generally seen as the best vehicle solution for suburban and regional passenger operation, and more recently for high-speed trains as well. Even though energy savings are obviously not the main motivation to introduce MU stock, energy efficiency is clearly in favour of decentralised traction concepts. The question whether loco-hauled stock offers substantial flexibility advantages over MU stock is difficult to answer in a general manner. However, short MU train sets which can be coupled to longer trains according to demand are seen as the most satisfying vehicle concept by the majority of operators. This is reflected in the long-term vehicle strategies in most countries. |
 date created: 2002-10-09 |
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| © UIC - International Union of Railways 2003 |
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