How to Build a Self-Propelled Cart Line with Powered Rails

A long rail line that keeps a cart moving forever is the backbone of any rail network. Powered rails give the cart a push when they receive redstone, and with the right spacing you can keep a cart rolling across hundreds of blocks without touching it.

Spacing and Power

Place powered rails at regular intervals along flat track, with plain rails in between. Every powered rail needs redstone power, so run a redstone line alongside the track or use a lever per section if you prefer manual control. On flat ground, carts keep their speed well, so you can space powered rails further apart than you would on an incline. On slopes, pack them closer together so the cart does not stall.

Handling Slopes and Corners

Uphill sections drain speed fast, so put a powered rail at the bottom of every climb and another partway up if the slope is long. Corners are fine on flat ground but avoid putting a corner right at the top of a hill, since the cart will slow down exactly when it needs speed. If a cart keeps stopping, the usual cause is a powered rail that is not actually receiving redstone; check the wire underneath before adding more rails.