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Originally Posted by Dadhawk
Well freight trains are diesel electric for the most part (similar to how the GM Volt worked), but not pure EV type electric.
As far as automated, trains are technically self driving to an extent aren't they? I mean the engineer is just controlling speed and observing for things but the train navigates and stays on course itself. That's at least L2 isn't it?  |
Are batteries the right solution here, maybe, maybe not. Probably better of they are powered by the track like a subway or overhead lines. But more efficient and more direct train freight isn't a bad thing. Saves the need for long haul truck drivers at least.
Yes, that's the point. It's far easier to automate a vehicle will one analog degree of freedom. Also, by making each car individually controllable you can have smaller or larger trains and they are easier to maneuver.