photo: Rail Sweden/DAC
Europe’s Rail successfully tests Digital Automatic Coupling (DAC) features, including brake checks, train integrity monitoring, and remote wagon uncoupling.
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Europe’s Rail has completed a major testing campaign of its Digital Automatic Coupling (DAC) prototype, confirming that several core features—automated brake testing, train integrity monitoring, remote control, and digital coupling detection—performed without error, marking a significant step forward in the EU’s effort to modernise rail freight through automation and digitalisation. The trials were conducted in Switzerland, where a specially equipped test train underwent extensive static, shunting, and line testing. According to Europe’s Rail, the system functioned flawlessly across all key parameters, laying the groundwork for the finalisation of European DAC standards.
Over 4,000 km of Faultless Testing Across Switzerland
The DAC-equipped prototype train consisted of four test wagons, two adapters, and a control and measurement car simulating locomotive functions. Standard SBB Cargo locomotives were used for mainline and shunting operations, although they were not integrated into the DAC system.
A central component of the setup was the Powerline PLUS digital communication infrastructure, installed within the mechanical and pneumatic buffer couplings. This system enabled Ethernet/IP data exchange between all wagons and the control unit, powered by a 400V AC supply—a major leap forward in coupling-based communications. The train ran 4,211 kilometres during the campaign, with test sites located in Lupfig (Aargau canton) and additional locations including Dottikon, Wildegg, and the Basel marshalling yard.
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DAC Functions Work Seamlessly, Including Brake and Integrity Monitoring
According to Europe’s Rail, the results were highly promising. The PTB communication protocol—a key element of the Powerline PLUS system—accurately detected the composition and orientation of all wagons. "The automatic brake test operated without fault," Europe’s Rail reported, noting that the train integrity system, which identifies gaps in the communication chain, also met all response time and reliability criteria.
No false alarms were detected, and the system consistently achieved expected operational benchmarks. These findings support the feasibility of real-world DAC implementation, particularly in Europe’s busy freight corridors, where automation could significantly increase efficiency and safety.
Based on the results, the project team confirmed that the DAC initiative will now move into the next phase of research and innovation, focused on developing a production-ready solution. To achieve full functionality, DAC systems will need to integrate cutting-edge safety architecture. Improvements will also be made to onboard power supply systems, ensuring greater resilience under operational conditions. Europe’s Rail stated that while electrical and digital aspects of DAC will not be standardised within DAC-specific protocols, they will instead be integrated into broader CENELEC standards, aligning with the EU's long-term rail safety and digitalisation frameworks.
Why DAC Matters: A Cornerstone of Europe’s Rail Freight Future
The successful testing of DAC is not just a technical milestone—it represents a critical enabler for next-generation freight logistics. By automating tasks like brake testing, composition tracking, and wagon decoupling, DAC will dramatically reduce manual labour, enhance safety, and allow faster train formation and turnaround.
As European policymakers aim to shift freight away from roads and onto rail, innovations like DAC are essential to increase capacity and competitiveness. With standardisation now within reach, the DAC project is quickly evolving from a pilot into a pillar of the EU’s sustainable transport strategy.
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Sources: Europe's Rail; RAILTARGET