Six Critical Steps for DAC Implementation: ÖBB’s Vision

ÖBB unveiled six key steps for DAC implementation, tackling interoperability, financing, and migration at InnoTrans 2024.

The Digital Automatic Coupler (DAC) aims to transform European freight rail, much like ETCS did. However, its success depends on overcoming significant hurdles. With DAC poised to enhance efficiency, safety, and automation, its role in shifting freight from road to rail is critical.

Experts from ÖBB have identified six key factors necessary for the successful development and implementation of Digital Automatic Coupler (DAC) across Europe. These steps were presented by an ÖBB representative during the InnoTrans trade fair in Berlin last September, where RAILTARGET was also present.

Unified European DAC System

The first requirement for DAC success is the establishment of a harmonized and unified DAC system across Europe. A standardized approach would ensure interoperability across borders, creating a cohesive and efficient rail network that allows seamless cross-border operations.

Proven DAC Technology

For DAC to gain widespread acceptance, the technology must prove its reliability and functionality under real-world operational conditions. Tests of DAC in commercial operations are scheduled to begin by 2026 or 2027, utilizing so-called "pioneer trains."

Real-World Performance Validation

Beyond technical feasibility, DAC must demonstrate its effectiveness in real-world scenarios, including challenging weather conditions and varying freight loads. Extensive testing will ensure the system’s durability and adaptability in everyday use, with "pioneer trains" playing a crucial role in this process.

180 Jahre lang hat die Schraubenkupplung den Güterverkehr zusammengehalten. Jetzt kommt die Zeitenwende. Ab 2028 wird die Digitale Automatische Kupplung (DAK) den Güterverkehr revolutionieren. 🚆
Sie macht den Transport schneller, effizienter und sicherer. 💪
© ÖBB/Scheiblecker pic.twitter.com/EICzg0oSP1

— ÖBB (@unsereOEBB) October 10, 2023

Adequate Financing for DAC

The deployment of DAC requires significant financial investment to support testing, infrastructure adjustments, and large-scale rollout. Experts stress that sufficient funding is essential to prevent delays or stagnation. Cost control will be critical to ensure DAC remains competitive against other freight transport modes, with an emphasis on maintaining its primary function—train coupling and integrity.

Simplified Approval Process

A streamlined regulatory framework is vital for DAC adoption. Simplifying and harmonizing the certification process across Europe will enable faster deployment and integration into existing rail networks, avoiding bureaucratic roadblocks.

Comprehensive Migration Plan

Lastly, a well-thought-out migration strategy is essential to ensure a smooth transition from the current (predominantly manual) couplers to DAC. This migration plan should take into account the varying levels of readiness among individual EU member states and rail operators, ensuring flexibility in its implementation.

These points reflect ÖBB's perspective on how DAC could be effectively introduced, although they may not necessarily align with a pan-European consensus. ÖBB, along with DB, is one of the most active proponents of implementing Digital Automatic Couplers. However, not all EU member states share this vision. As reported by our RAILTARGET editorial team, the Netherlands has expressed concerns about the universal adoption of DAC and a more cautious approach to its deployment is also being advocated by Swiss experts.

Source: RAILTARGET; ÖBB presentation on DAC at InnoTrans2024