Aluminum coil finds extensive application in both freight and passenger trains. In freight trains, the lightweight nature of aluminum allows for the transportation of larger payloads. A notable innovation in the industry involves using internally-stiffened, hollow extrusions for the movable side walls of freight cars. These aluminum walls can be manufactured with fewer components compared to steel walls, resulting in easier production, reduced weight, and enabling a single worker to handle them, thereby reducing labor needs.

For passenger cars, it is common to manufacture them using single aluminum extrusions that span the entire length of the car, sometimes reaching up to 75 feet. The individual parts are welded together and reinforced with horizontal members around the doors and windows. This simplified assembly process, requiring fewer parts, makes aluminum manufacturing more efficient than steel. The end result is a lighter, more cost-effective, and aerodynamically superior product.

The versatility of aluminum has also enabled train manufacturers to meet the evolving demands of the industry. Many trains are now designed to tilt, allowing them to lean into curves and achieve higher speeds. Furthermore, industrial railway is being developed to generate electricity during braking, and aluminum technology enables the achievement of extremely low axle weight without compromising structural integrity or safety. Additionally, considerations such as sustainability and environmental protection are increasingly important, and the use of aluminum alloys enables manufacturers to better address these needs.