Germany, Austria and Switzerland ask for EU-wide DAC commitment

The governments of Germany, Austria and Switzerland said that their efforts in the context of deploying Digital Automatic Coupling (DAC) “are necessary, but not sufficient”. They are asking for the creation of an EU-wide funding mechanism, financial commitment from all Member States and strong foundations from the sector. Germany, Austria and Switzerland are thus asking…

DAC: Digital Automatic Coupling or Digital Age Conundrum?

Currently, the common denominator concerning the implementation of the Digital Automatic Coupling (DAC) in Europe seems to be confusion. A third DAC consortium, renamed DACFIT, was just formed by Deutsche Bahn (DB), which also plays a key role in the other two. However, a clear timetable is not yet available despite the EU envisioning a…

Britain demonstrates affordable DAC alternative system

A British alternative has been demonstrated to the EU proposed Digital Automatic Coupler (DAC) programme. An examination has been backed by an industry-recognised safety body. The work has been carried out by a nationwide consultancy, and has demonstrated an alternative system. The study found that a cost-effective alternative system of monitoring and real-time reporting could […]

The Swiss Federal Council wants to pour millions into single wagonload

The Swiss Federal Council wants to make funds available to improve the country’s rail freight sector and keep single wagonload transport financially viable. If approved by the Swiss Parliament, the initiative will see hundreds of millions of euros deployed. The money would come from a portion of the tax on Heavy Good Vehicles, “which would […]