Regular passenger transport on low-intensity routes using hybrid rolling stock

Insufficient transport accessibility in rural settlements provokes the outflow of the local population, resulting in a labor shortage for agricultural enterprises and, consequently, causing their closure. These processes negatively impact the region’s economic indicators, exacerbating its socio-economic situation. The authors consider the potential for improving transport accessibility in remote areas located within the sphere of influence of railway infrastructure by organizing the operation of special rolling stock with combined (automobile-rail) propulsion. Current experience with traction modules on combined automobile-rail propulsion or locomobiles allows for the consideration of passenger transport, taking into account international experience with the Toyota Coaster DMV. The authors do not focus on the economic efficiency of the proposed solutions, as the primary emphasis is on ensuring territorial connectivity and fulfilling a social function with acceptable technological feasibility. This article may be of practical interest to regional (local) executive and legislative authorities responsible for developing public transport route networks, budgeting, and organizing urban and suburban transportation.