ÖBB Rail Cargo Group has started the testing programme of its Digital Automatic Coupling (DAC) demonstration freight train, which will operate across Austria during 2026 under real operating conditions.
The demo train initially consists of eight wagons and will be extended to 24 wagons from mid-2026. The consist includes Eanos, Sgnss, Shimmns (types 4668 and 4676), Habbiins, Talns and Faccns wagons, hauled by two Siemens Vectron locomotives. The mix allows testing of multiple wagon lengths, weights and running characteristics, including double traction for heavy trains and steep gradients.
Only modern bogie wagons are used, reflecting current and future freight fleets. Short wagons such as Talns, Shimmns and Faccns are included to assess dynamic behaviour during hump shunting, while longer wagons such as Habbiins are used to analyse coupling forces in mixed consists.
The train is equipped with 44 DACs from different manufacturers, all designed to be interoperable. The two Vectron locomotives are fitted with hybrid couplings, allowing operation with both DAC-equipped wagons and wagons using conventional screw couplings. Each wagon carries a Consist Control Unit (CCU), while the locomotives are equipped with Lead Control Units (LCU), providing power supply and continuous data communication throughout the train, including real-time train integrity monitoring.
Testing in Austria will cover alpine operating conditions, including tight curves, steep gradients and tunnels. The first major test runs are planned on the Tauern line, followed by winter testing in January and shunting trials at Salzburg-Gnigl yard. Data collection focuses on mechanical loads, wear and system reliability.
Parallel DAC demonstration programmes are also underway in Germany, Italy, Sweden and Switzerland. Comparative data from different climates and operating environments will be shared within European research projects supporting the standardisation of DAC in rail freight.
