Commuter Rail Systems

Commuter Rail Systems

Brief Excerpt from Industry Overview Chapter:

Companies in this industry operate local and suburban commuter rail systems. Major companies include China Railway, MTR Corporation, Metropolitan Transport Authority, SNCF, Tokyo Metro, and VR Group.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Demand is driven by population growth and density, particularly in metropolitan areas. The profitability of individual companies depends on efficient operations. Large companies have advantages in absorbing large operational and capital costs. Small companies can compete effectively by entering new markets. The US industry is highly concentrated: a handful of companies generate most of the industry's revenue.

PRODUCTS, OPERATIONS & TECHNOLOGY

Commuter rail services operate local and suburban routes, primarily during peak morning and evening travel periods. Commuter rail uses technology common to existing freight railroad systems, has stations typically spaced 2-7 miles apart; and operates at moderate speeds (18-55 miles per hour). Urban transit systems, which include commuter rail systems, make up more than 10% of the transit and ground passenger transportation industry.