The consortium of DB Cargo and VTG has completed its research into a new generation of cost and energy-efficient freight wagons. Here is a look at the project and other freight innovations, including sustainable rail cars, an ‘intelligent’ digital freight train, and the latest tank container technology.
The project launched in 2016 with the aim of making rail freight transportation cost effective. Testing on innovations including new lightweight noise and energy-saving components and digital modules to optimise wagon operation commenced in March 2018, and involved four types of vehicle – including flat, container, tank and car transporter wagons – covering 150,000km.
Presenting the results in Berlin at the German Federal Ministry of Transport – which contributed €18m to the research – the consortium revealed that the newly developed wagons consume 3%–8% less traction energy, and reported a 3db(A)-6dB(A) reduction in noise levels and lower lifecycle costs. Further adjustments and new digital modules can also be used to optimise dispatch and operations.