A railbus is a lightweight passenger railcar with an automotive engine. They shares many aspects of its construction with a bus, typically having a bus body and four wheels on a fixed base instead of on bogies. Originally designed and developed during the 1930s, railbuses have evolved into larger dimensions with characteristics similar in appearance to a light railcar, with the terms railcar and railbus often used interchangeably. Railbuses designed for use specifically on little-used railway lines were commonly employed in countries such as Germany, Italy, France, the United Kingdom, and Sweden.
Hilding Carlsson diesel in Sweden
Calabro Lucane Railway (FCL) railbus Emmina M1c.82 in Italy
Modern-day railbus, built originally by Ferrostaal, entirely rebuilt and redesigned in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia
ČD railbus at Prague, 2011
A railcar is a self-propelled railway vehicle designed to transport passengers. The term "railcar" is usually used in reference to a train consisting of a single coach, with a driver's cab at one or both ends. Some railway companies, such as the Great Western, termed such vehicles "railmotors".
The Bombardier Talent articulated regional railcar
The Regio-Shuttle RS1 low-floor vehicle is a modern version of a single unit railcar. Several of these can run together; articulated versions are also available.
The RegioSpider modern railcar.
A two-car New South Wales Hunter railcar in Australia