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Yes, diesel engines are more properly called diesel-electric locomotives. There is a large diesel engine running that is connected to a even larger generator. This charges batteries and powers motors in each truck. Some of the larger locos even have 2x motors per truck. If you are able to look up the inner-workings of a modern day locomotive I think one would be impressed. (at least I have been since I was into model trains as a kid)
Wagonman hit the nail on the head with why cars are designed they way they are. They were first designed long ago when this stuff was not an issue, and since then the basics remain the same cause of ease of construction and maintenance. However, they are doing what they can to improve efficiently as they all want to make more profit.
As far as the big rail roads still around, CN and CR are the biggest ones around here. Otherwise you still have the BNSF (which will always be ATSF in my heart), UP, and the above listed. Most others are short lines (local railroads) or have been bought out.
As far as the markings on the side of tank cars and hoppers, the 4 letters ending in an X is a private owner, usually a business of sorts. The first three signify the company but I'm not 100% sure where to find that listing of who is who.
Although not really answering the initial question, I hope this was at least interesting.
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