Smarter rail networks: Knorr-Bremse presents wayside solutions at InnoTrans
Knorr-Bremse showcases signaling and wayside technologies that bring greater safety, performance, and efficiency to the tracks
ElectroLogIXS platform serves as foundation for the digitalization of safety-critical infrastructure components
Electronic and digital upgrades for trackside equipment such as interlocking, LED signals, switch controls, track circuits, and railroad crossings
Data & Analytics enable in-depth infrastructure insights and profound operational and maintenance decisions
Strong fleets, robust rail networks, and upgrades to existing lines are crucial for the future of rail transport. One of the most effective ways to shift traffic and capacity to the rails is by modernizing today’s rail infrastructure. This is where Knorr-Bremse comes in with leading wayside solutions: At InnoTrans 2026, the company will demonstrate how intelligent electronics, software, and connectivity solutions are taking safety and availability on the rails to a new level (Hall 1.2, Booth 250).
Dr. Nicolas Lange, Executive Board Member of Knorr-Bremse AG responsible for Rail: “Rail mobility is increasingly shaped by the interplay between fleets, infrastructure, and digitalization. That is why we have specifically expanded our expertise to include infrastructure upgrades: Through major projects in North America, Australia, and Europe, we are already demonstrating how we can make safety-critical track elements smarter and more efficient using electronics, signaling, and control solutions – without having to replace existing components. This expertise is a key building block on our path to becoming a Tier 1 partner for the rail ecosystem.”
Route, train, and data: Rail as a holistic ecosystem
At the core of Knorr-Bremse’s integrated wayside portfolio is the scalable ElectroLogIXS platform. Based on a unified hardware and software foundation, Knorr-Bremse presents solutions for three key application areas.
1. Intelligent nerve center: Smart safety technology for interlocking
How do you prevent two trains from using the same route? Every day, countless train movements must be coordinated across rail networks without connections crossing paths or operations interfering with one another. Innovative control and safety technology for interlocking systems, such as the ElectroLogIXS Vital Logic Controller (VLC), handles high-precision train detection, train tracking, and route control, thereby transforming traditional interlockings into intelligent control centers.
2. The smart route: Signals, switches, and railroad crossings at a new level
Is the infrastructure in perfect condition – and what’s happening along the route? To ensure smoother rail operations, track elements such as signals, switches, and railroad crossings must function safely and reliably. Innovative features enable critical infrastructure points to be operated more reliably – and serve as valuable sources of data.
The ElectroLogIXS Object Controller controls and monitors components such as switch actuators, train detection systems, track circuits, and axle counters on a common digital platform. In doing so, it lays the foundation for the modernization of existing networks and helps improve their performance, efficiency, and maintenance planning. Latest-generation LED Compact signals combine maximum optical performance with broad interlocking compatibility and energy-efficient operation.
3. Data & Analytics: Intelligent data analysis for improved operations
How can risks be identified before they disrupt rail operations? Modern signaling and data solutions, such as the Data Acquisition Unit (DAU), collect valuable infrastructure data directly along the track before the Wayside System Data Management Module (WSDMM) analyzes it. This provides operators with profound insights into the condition of their infrastructure, laying the foundation for informed decisions, predictive maintenance, and early detection of malfunctions.
In addition, Rail TempEst offers benefits for rail operations under extreme conditions: The technology measures rail temperature in real time and provides early warnings of potential deformations or rail damage caused by extreme heat or cold, enabling operators to optimize train speed management early-on, adjust schedules, and ensure operational stability.
Meet at Knorr-Bremse: Rail Mobility Visioneers at InnoTrans 2026
Under the theme “Rail Mobility Visioneers,” Knorr-Bremse brings the future of the rail ecosystem to life: at a multi-level booth spanning approximately 1,350 square meters in Hall 1.2, Booth 250, Knorr-Bremse combines its On-Train, Wayside, and X.Sectional portfolios into a comprehensive range of solutions. In-depth insights into the X.Sectional Embedded Electronic Solutions segment will be provided at the Knorr-Bremse special booth of the same name in Hall 27, Booth 740. In addition, Knorr-Bremse is presenting solutions related to the Digital Automatic Coupler (DAK) and the digital-electromechanical braking system at Europe’s Rail (Hall 4.2, Booth 250). At the CityCube (Hall B, Booth 610), the DAK will be the focus of exhibitor Gruppo FS as a key technology for automated rail freight transport.