PROTOTYPE AND BACKGROUND INFO:

The development of the hopper car went along with the development of automated handling of such commodities, with automated loading and unloading facilities. Open hopper cars are used for commodities such as coal, which can suffer exposure with less detrimental effect. Hopper cars have been used by railways worldwide whenever automated cargo handling has been desired. This type of car is distinguished from a gondola car in that it has opening doors on the underside or on the sides to discharge its cargo.