Railroad Energy Efficiency in the United States: Analytical and Statistical Analysis

Abstract

This paper provides information about railroad fuel efficiency. Two methods of estimating railroad fuel consumption are demonstrated: (1) an analytical procedure based on train resistance factors, speeds, changes in elevation, and car weights; and (2) a statistical procedure that utilizes observed data. Both procedures are used to estimate the efficiencies of coal, grain, iron ore, and other commodity shipments. The two methods produce similar (but not identical) results. The analytical procedure illustrates the underlying forces that affect fuel efficiency and provides a benchmark for the statistical model.