24. September 2026, 12:41 o'Clock
Article: Distributed Power System: Up to 30 per cent more freight on the same route
Remote-controlled shunting locomotive increases train utilisation and creates additional capacity on the existing network
With the Distributed Power System (DPS), DB Cargo is increasing rail transport capacity and making more efficient use of existing infrastructure. The technology enables the operation of significantly heavier freight trains, controlled by just one train driver. This allows up to 30 per cent more freight to be transported per train without the need for additional train journeys. For customers, this means greater capacity, improved predictability and better utilisation of existing train paths.
DPS connects the locomotives at the front and rear of the train via radio data transmission. The locomotive at the rear of the train is remotely controlled by the leading locomotive. Unlike with conventional dual traction, the tractive force is distributed across the entire length of the train. This allows heavier loads to be hauled, whilst at the same time reducing the strain on rolling stock and materials.
Rail network: Germany – Austria
The technology is currently in use on services operated by the Austrian steel and technology group voestalpine between Linz and Germany. For LogServ, voestalpine’s logistics service provider, DPS creates additional capacity on shuttle services carrying steel products. Greater transport volumes per train help to maintain stable supply chains even under challenging conditions.
“The new technology is particularly demonstrating its added value during the corridor renovation works in Germany. Due to the steeper gradients on the diversion route, trains without DPS can only carry around 2,400 tonnes. With DPS, it is still possible to carry more than 3,300 tonnes per train,” says Markus Schinko, Managing Director of LogServ. “This helps to ensure a reliable supply of raw materials to our sites and the delivery of our products to our customers.”
This increases security of supply for industrial and logistics customers. Transport operations remain predictable even in the face of infrastructural constraints, whilst capacity on heavily congested corridors can be utilised more effectively. As larger volumes can be transported using fewer trains, the need for additional train paths is reduced at the same time.
Markus Micken, Head of the Steel Business Unit at DB Cargo, describes the practical impact of this: “Where four trains were previously required, three can now transport the same volume of freight. Thanks to our innovation-driven customer and digitalisation, we are achieving greater transport capacity with the same staff and the same infrastructure.”
Cross-border operations between Austria and Germany demonstrate how additional transport capacity can be tapped within the existing network. Customers benefit from higher freight volumes per train, more reliable planning of their logistics chains and additional capacity on heavily utilised routes. Following these positive results, DB Cargo is exploring the use of DPS on further routes and for additional customers.
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