Multiple units

Multiple units (MU) are self-propelled train carriages capable of coupling with other units of the same or similar type and still being controlled from one driving cab. Often these are passenger trainsets consisting of more than one carriage. Single self-propelling carriages (also called railcars, rail motor coaches or railbuses) are multiple units if capable of operating with other units.

Multiple units are classified by their power source and are of two main types: electric multiple unit (EMU) or diesel multiple unit (DMU). Diesel-powered units may be further classified by their transmission type: diesel-electric (DEMU), diesel-mechanical (DMMU) or diesel-hydraulic (DHMU).

Locomotives utilising multiple-unit train control are not multiple units.

Multiple-unit train control was first used in Electric Multiple Units in the 1890s. This allowed electrically-powered rapid transit trains to be operated from a single driving position. Early users of such multiple units include the Liverpool Overhead Railway (the first multiple units) and Chicago's South Side Elevated Railroad (the first units to use a low-voltage control system).

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