In this article, a multi-criteria study of the use of independently powered electric multiple units on the partially electrified Gdynia Główna - Hel railway was carried out. The use of (currently used) diesel and, as an alternative, electric and electric multiple units with an electric energy storage was considered. The analysis was carried out on the basis of three criteria for assessing the route service options, i.e. environmental, economic, operational and economic investment criteria. A multi-criteria decision model was developed for the analysis and a comparative analysis of the considered options for servicing the Gdynia Główna - Hel route was carried out. As part of the environmental criterion, it was found that the most environmentally friendly is the use of storage units. As part of the operational economic criterion, it was shown that the storage units have the lowest operating costs. The analysis, as part of the investment cost criterion, showed that the lowest investment costs are characteristic of route operation with the use of combustion units. The highest investment costs are related to the route operation by classic electric units, which is associated with the complete electrification of the line.