Electric multiple unit facts for kids
An electric multiple unit or EMU is a special type of train. It's made up of several connected cars that all use electricity to move. This means there's no separate locomotive (engine) pulling the train. Instead, the motors are spread out under the different cars.
Contents
How EMUs Work
EMUs get their power from electricity. This electricity can come from two main places:
- Overhead lines: These are wires above the tracks. A special arm on top of the train, called a pantograph, touches the wire to collect electricity.
- Third rail: This is an extra rail placed next to the main tracks. A shoe-like device on the train slides along this rail to pick up power.
Once the electricity is collected, it powers electric motors. These motors turn the wheels and make the train move.
Why EMUs Are Great
EMUs have many advantages that make them popular for different types of train services.
Fast and Flexible
Because the motors are spread throughout the train, EMUs can speed up and slow down very quickly. This is helpful for trains that make frequent stops, like those in cities. They can also run in both directions without needing to turn around. The driver just moves to the other end of the train!
Quiet and Clean
EMUs are much quieter than diesel trains because they don't have a noisy engine. They also don't produce exhaust fumes, which is better for the environment. This makes them a good choice for busy cities and underground subway systems.
More Space for Passengers
Since there's no separate engine car, all the space in an EMU can be used for passengers. This means more seats or standing room, which is great for crowded routes.
Where You Can Find EMUs
EMUs are used all over the world for many different purposes.
City and Commuter Trains
You'll often see EMUs used for commuter rail and rapid transit (subway or metro) systems. Their ability to accelerate quickly and carry many passengers makes them perfect for moving large numbers of people in and around cities. Famous examples include the London Underground and the New York City Subway.
High-Speed Rail
Some of the fastest trains in the world are EMUs! High-speed EMUs are designed to travel at incredible speeds, often over 300 kilometers per hour (186 mph). Countries like Japan (with its Shinkansen) and China use high-speed EMUs to connect major cities quickly and efficiently.
A Bit of History
The first EMUs appeared in the late 1800s. One of the earliest was the Liverpool Overhead Railway in England, which started using electric trains in 1893. These early EMUs showed how useful electric trains could be, especially for city transport. Over time, EMUs have become more advanced, faster, and more energy-efficient.
See Also
In Spanish: Unidad eléctrica múltiple para niños
Images for kids
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A Liverpool Overhead Railway carriage in the Museum of Liverpool. This was one of the first EMUs in 1893.
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A prototype of the JNR 201 series EMU on display in Tokyo, 1979.
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A DART 8500 class commuter EMU in Ireland.
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A high-speed EMU CR400BF-G from China Railway High-speed.
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A CityElefant train arriving at Ostrava hlavní nádraží in the Czech Republic.
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An A-City 4000 class EMU in Adelaide, Australia.
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A British Rail Class 444 EMU at Basingstoke, United Kingdom.
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Metro-North Railroad M8 EMUs in Port Chester, New York.
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