Passenger Train, Electric, North American, Modern Era

History: The modern era of rail transportation service in North America is dominated by Amtrak and Via Rail. Amtrak serves the United States and Via serves Canada. Local light rail in the form of various commuter railroads is also prevalent in major metropolitan regions.

The replacement of rail transportation by the highways system and modern air travel spelled the doom of competitive rail transportation in the 1970s. The only way rail passenger service could continue was with consolidation and subsidization under the respective national governments. All passenger service routes and equipment was consolidated and transferred to the new rail systems during this period.

Electric rail is primarily limited to commuter rail and the Northeast Corridor in the United States.

Railroad/Company: This set of items is comprised of more than one name. Please look at the component items for details on the specific roadnames and/or manufacturers.