012063 European articulated intermodal well car. Unlike in North America, where well cars -- cars where the center surface is below the top of the wheels -- are used primarily to carry double-stacked containers, in Europe these cars are used to carry tall trailers within the clearance limitations of the rail lines.

European rail lines have much more restrictive clearances than those in North America. In addition, most mainlines have overhead catenary for electric locomotives.

These European well cars allow the wheels of trailers to fit into the depressed center of the car, while the fifth wheel rests on the higher area above the wheels. These cars can also carry single-level containers.

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