The deployment of Digital Automatic Coupling (DAC) will take a significant step forward in 2027, when “large-scale commercial testing with trains operating in real-world conditions” will begin. Once started, the tests will last for 36 months, according to the International Union of Wagon Keepers (UIP).
UIP is one of 10 members of the PioDac consortium, tasked with the large-scale tests. So far, there is no further information about how many trains will be involved in the project and which routes they will run. “The operating data collected will provide a comprehensive picture of the DAC’s operational capability, robustness and cost-effectiveness”, UIP said.
Persisting doubts
Despite this development, DAC is still a controversial initiative. Its cost, for example, continues to be the subject of many debates. The most optimistic estimates say that the migration to DAC across Europe will cost 8,5 billion euros, while the highest are set at somewhere between 20 and 30 billion euros.
And a probably more important question is who is going to have to pay for this ginormous amount of money. Some argue that the rolling stock industry should absorb the costs, while others think that EU institutions should cover all expenses given the European reach of the initiative. Which takes us to the final issue.
Does DAC really need to be deployed on every rail freight wagon that circulates in Europe? Even DAC ambassadors acknowledge that a full migration will likely never be obtained, especially given the estimated costs. On the other hand, specific segments such as single wagonload could benefit from the technology.