The 18 papers in this special section focus on the technology of linear electric (electromagnetic)machines (LEMs). LEMs were introduced at the turn of the last century. They have been conceived to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy (or vice versa) as a direct linear motion through electromagnetic forces. LEMs are reversible devices,meaning that they can work as bothmotors and generators. Although feasible, linear alternators are currently explored for limited applications (e.g., Stirling motor). On the contrary, linear motors or actuators are electromagnetic devices capable of producing direct (without any link or interposition) linear motions of the following types: in a unique direction, short-stroke motion, oscillatory motion, and step-by-step motion. Correspondingly, exactly as in the rotating counterpart, different types of linear motors have been devised: linear synchronous motors (LSMs) in its versions with excitation winding, with permanent magnets (PMs) LSMs or without both (linear reluctance motor = LRM), linear induction motors (LIMs), and linear stepper motors.