Preparations for the DAC demo train are underway

Technologies come and go. However, some are here to stay. The screw coupling is the best example of this, having connected freight wagons since 1896. This robust system, where shunting staff climb between wagons to hook a coupling link weighing over 20 kg into the draw hook, works in all weather conditions and seasons. At the same time, it is labour- and time-intensive – and increasingly antiquated in the face of growing digitalisation.

Foundation for automation and digitalisation 

With DAC, rail freight transport is on the verge of transitioning to a modern, safe system that dramatically increases efficiency and lays the foundation for the further automation and digitalisation of freight trains. DAC not only controls automatic coupling and uncoupling but, for the first time, enables a continuous power and data supply to the wagons. Alongside important efficiency gains, such as automated brake testing, this creates the conditions for increasingly digitalised European freight transport system.

We are testing the future of tomorrow 

The DAC mammoth project has involved numerous tests and activities across Europe for many years. Since 2020, particular attention has been paid to the DAC4EU demo trains, which allow for the intensive testing of manufacturers' systems under realistic conditions. In 2026, as part of Europe's Rail FP5-TRANS4M-R project, a specially equipped ÖBB demo train will be used to gather new insights in Austria, including trials under winter conditions. The experience gained will be incorporated into the 'Pioneer DAC Trains (PioDAC)' project from 2027 onwards, which will oversee the first large-scale commercial deployment of trains equipped with DAC couplings and digital train functions.

We will keep you updated! 

In the coming weeks and months, we will continuously report on the most important details of the ÖBB demo train here and take a closer look at the various manufacturer systems. Check back regularly – it is worth it!

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the Europe’s Rail Joint Undertaking. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

The project is supported by the Europe’s Rail Joint Undertaking and its members.