Light rail transit is proposed for the South Corridor. As the Charlotte region has considered opportunities to improve the transit system, light rail and commuter rail have both been mentioned. The two are not the same and the differences are often misunderstood. Below is a brief primer on the features of light rail compared to commuter rail. Propulsion power is drawn from an overhead electric distribution wire.
Vehicles can negotiate sharp curves in order to go over city streets.
For starters, while light rail vehicles are powered with electricity, commuter rail systems are typically powered by diesel engines. The electric-powered system is quieter and often considered more environmentally friendly. Also, light rail vehicles are able to accelerate and decelerate quickly, which allows for more stops along a corridor. Commuter rail vehicles take longer to change speeds, but can operate at higher speeds than light rail. Commuter rail must run on a separate right of way and cannot mix with rubber-tired traffic.