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Locomotives need weight for traction. New rolling stock could be designed with motors and electrical hook-ups at the couplers, but schemes such as rack-and-pinion arrangements to enhance traction have never been trouble-free. Self-powered cars with smart couplers can be much lighter and more versatile. I'm amazed to see diesel-electric drives being installed in new ships, after the 1st two ferries ballasted that way died of old age without being emulated.
FWIW, during a long power outage, Montreal City used a locomotive generator to power up some buildings to provide essential services. Hydro Quebec had said it couldn't be done, but they were busy.
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