railcar

Noun

railcar (plural railcars)

1. A self-propelled railway vehicle for passengers, similar to a bus.
   • The semi-streamlined contour of the earlier G.W.R. railcars has been given up in favour of a more utilitarian blunt-nose end, and effective floor space gained thereby.1941 October, “Notes and News: Great Western Parcels Railcar”, in Railway Magazine, page 474
   • Profitable operation is being made possible by the widespread introduction of capacious diesel railcars, which for their comfort and speed are very popular with the travelling public.1953 April, “Reviving U.S.A. Passenger Traffic”, in Railway Magazine, page 218

   Synonyms:

   railbus

2. A powered single railway vehicle designed for passenger transport, with a driver's cab in both ends; Not to be confused with motor coach/motorcar, which is a powered railway vehicle capable to haul a train.
3. (Canada, US) Any unpowered railway vehicle.

   Synonyms:

   railroad car