29. September 2025, 10:54 o'Clock
Article: Rail freight transport saves more than half the energy since 2000
The industry has reduced energy consumption by 53% - DB Cargo as market leader makes a decisive contribution to this.
Rail is the energy-saving champion - and the figures speak for themselves. According to an analysis by Pro-Rail Alliance, energy consumption in rail freight transport has been reduced by 53% since 2000. By comparison, lorries consumed 16% less energy in the same period, while inland navigation remained almost constant (-2%).
Why rail is so efficient:
- Low rolling resistance: steel wheel on steel rail causes much less friction than rubber on tarmac.
- High transport capacity: a train can move hundreds of tonnes at a time → energy consumption per tonne greatly reduced
- Aerodynamic advantages: Longer, coupled vehicles share drag.
- Electrification: 90% of rail transport services in Germany are provided by electric locomotives, 44% of the energy used comes from renewable sources - and the trend is rising.
"With intelligent logistics solutions in our European environmental network, we ensure sustainable supply chains for our customers."
Note: This graphic is available in German only.
As Europe's largest freight operating company, DB Cargo is making a significant contribution to this development. Rail freight transport with DB Cargo thus offers companies not only reliable, but also sustainable transport solutions.
Looking to the future, DB Cargo is focussing on further increases in efficiency and the expansion of renewable energies in order to further improve its environmental footprint.
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