This configuration features several powered passenger cars or locomotives joined together to allow operation by one engineer from the front cab. Control signals for throttle, braking, and reverser travel through heavy electrical jumper cables connecting the vehicles. The arrangement removes the requirement for independent locomotives to haul unpowered coaches and provides rapid acceleration for commuter routes.
We've a six-car multiple unit on track four ready for the morning rush.
When railroaders say MU, they might mean the physical consist or the act of connecting them together, as in MUing the power.
Also heard as
- MU
Related terms
Jumper cable
A heavy electrical cable that connects locomotives or passenger cars to share power and control signals.
EMU
An electric multiple unit is a self-propelled passenger train powered by electricity.
Diesel multiple unit
A train consisting of self-propelled passenger cars powered by onboard diesel engines.