Digital Coupler Rolls Ahead, Czech R&D and Swiss Millions Fuel Rail Innovation

Europe’s next freight revolution is clicking into place. With over 9,000 kilometres of real-world testing now behind it, the Digital Automatic Coupler is moving from prototype to policy — backed by Czech engineers and Swiss millions.

The Digital Automatic Coupler (DAC) has successfully passed commercial testing under real operating conditions, marking a significant milestone in Europe's effort to modernise rail freight. Within the DAC4EU project, a test train operated by DB Cargo and the Westfälische Landes-Eisenbahn GmbH covered over 9,000 kilometres equipped with the prototype coupler. The results were presented in Lippstadt. The Czech Railway Research Institute (VÚKV) is among the key contributors to the DAC development under the Europe’s Rail partnership, joining a consortium led by DB Cargo.

DB Cargo Confirms Safety, Efficiency, and Sustainability Benefits

As shared on LinkedIn by Jasmin Bigdon, Technical Director of Deutsche Bahn AG, the trial—backed by the German Federal Ministry of Transport—was designed to evaluate multiple DAC prototypes under real-world conditions. According to Bigdon, the coupler will bring greater safety, reduced manual handling, faster operations, and contribute to the sustainability of rail freight.

By integrating mechanical, electronic, and data transmission systems, the coupler reduces labour requirements and introduces digital functionality into what has long been a manual operation. Bigdon also confirmed that by early 2026, the entire DAC4EU test train will be fully equipped with the digital coupler, with testing to continue in cooperation with national railway authorities to meet safety certification requirements.

The Czech Republic is playing a direct role in DAC development through VÚKV, which specialises in independent research, testing, and consulting for rail vehicles and components. The institute’s involvement points out the cross-border collaboration underpinning Europe’s rail innovation strategy. VÚKV’s contribution includes the development and validation of components used in the coupling process, further strengthening the technological credibility of the project.

Switzerland Commits EUR 193 Million to DAC Rollout

As previously reported by RAILTARGET, DAC implementation is also gaining momentum in Switzerland. The Swiss government has committed CHF 180 million (approx. EUR 193 million) to equip 15,000 freight wagons and 520 locomotives with DAC systems.

The subsidy amount depends on vehicle age—up to CHF 10,000 (EUR 10,700) per newer wagon and up to CHF 75,000 (EUR 80,400) per locomotive, provided it remains in operation for at least five years. This funding is expected to cover 30–40% of upgrade costs, with coordination handled by a newly established entity. Applicants must submit vehicle lists and production dates to the Swiss Federal Office of Transport (FOT).

Expanded Swiss Support for Intermodal and Terminal Upgrades

Switzerland is also broadening its support to cover terminal modernisation and combined transport. A revised national transport law enables up to 80% subsidies for terminals of national importance, 50% for new reloading facilities, and 40% for upgrades of existing terminals. Funding is available to both Swiss and foreign terminals, provided they meet capacity thresholds of at least 720 full train movements or 5,000 TEU annually.

Supported facilities must achieve financial sustainability within five years, or face repayment obligations. Additionally, combined transport operators are eligible for CHF 40 (approx. EUR 43) per unit, granted that the track handles at least 720 units (up to a maximum of 8,000 annually). An exception applies to newly opened terminals, where the requirement kicks in six years post-launch.