A passenger car located at the opposite end of a train from the locomotive, fitted with a full set of engineer controls, brake valves, and a horn. It allows the train to operate in push-pull service without needing to turn the locomotive around at the end of the line. The engineer operates the trailing locomotive remotely through electrical trainlines running the length of the consist.
I'm taking the control car on the inbound run, so make sure the cab heater is actually working this time.
Also heard as
- cab car
- driving trailer
Related terms
Push-pull
A train configuration that can be driven from either end without turning the locomotive.
Multiple unit
A train configuration where several self-propelled cars are coupled and controlled from a single cab.
Consist
The makeup of a train, listing its locomotives and cars in order with weights, loads and hazmat.