Increased transport performance and network capacity

Smart vehicles, future-proof infrastructure, and greater digitalization work together to increase performance and capacity on the tracks. At InnoTrans, Knorr-Bremse will demonstrate how modern on-train systems support this transformation.

• The focus is on “Evolution of Braking”: Featured exhibits demonstrate how Knorr-Bremse is advancing its braking expertise into the next generation of technology: The digital-electromechanical braking system, featuring “Brake-by-Wire”, opens up entirely new possibilities for higher performance, improved energy efficiency, and optimized lifecycle costs through full electrification and the complete elimination of hydraulics. At the same time, Knorr-Bremse is continuously advancing the development of the electropneumatic brake (“Brake-by-Air”), which is currently the global standard for train braking systems. The new nX system architecture lays the foundation for this: It enables software-defined solutions and the integration of customer-specific, data-driven functions in an environment with the highest safety requirements. The technologies presented demonstrate how Knorr-Bremse is advancing different, future-driven lines of development for rail braking systems.

• With Future Rail Freight Transportation, Knorr-Bremse highlights the potential of the Digital Automatic Coupler (FreightLink) as an enabler for automated and digitized freight transport. The DAK Type 5, featuring the Knorr-Bremse e-Coupler, provides the foundation for automatic coupling and functions such as automatic brake testing, train formation, and remote uncoupling through a train-wide data and power connection. Together with the FreightControl Suite and FreightControl Sentinel, it enables automation architectures for the Digital Freight Train – ranging from DAK-based solutions to wireless concepts. For passenger rail, Knorr-Bremse offers solutions such as the proven front- and center-buffer couplers AutoLink and ShortLink.

• The LEADER Flow driver assistance system for freight transport uses real-time traffic and route data to provide predictive driving recommendations. As a result, trains operate more energy-efficiently and achieve savings in the double-digit percentage range. The system is already supporting customers in their daily operations. In addition, LEADER AutoControl – which is in use in the U.S. and Australia, among other places – optimizes energy consumption, braking performance, and operational efficiency for the heaviest freight trains and, through automation and assistance functions, contributes to more economical and efficient rail operations.

Optimized Ecological Footprint for vehicles and fleets

Rail is already one of the most sustainable modes of transportation. Innovative vehicle technologies can make it even more environmentally friendly and energy-efficient. Using a holistic approach, Knorr-Bremse reduces energy consumption, resource use, and emissions throughout a vehicle’s entire life cycle.

• Sustainable Friction Pairing is a holistic approach to sustainability across the entire life cycle of the braking system: Matching the brake pad and brake rotor to the overall system helps optimize the CO₂ footprint, particulate matter emissions, material compliance, circular economy, and energy efficiency during operation. Depending on the application, different material combinations and design variants can offer the best possible solution in terms of performance and sustainability.

• Intelligent Compressed Air Supply: AirSupply Smart adjusts the air supply to the braking system based on demand, making it quieter and more energy-efficient. Together with the ScrewSupply Eco compressor and the DrySupply Compact air dryer, the system reduces noise emissions, maintenance requirements, weight, and space requirements. At the same time, the new ScrewSupply Eco reduces lifecycle costs by up to 40 percent.

• The Smart Integrated Functional Unit (SIFU) also contributes to intelligent energy management. It combines control, diagnostic, and measurement functions for energy distribution into a single compact system. The measurement technology provides transparency into energy flows, helps operators optimize energy consumption, and can reduce the amount of wiring required on board by more than 70 percent. A new addition is the SIFU AC variant for alternating current vehicles.

Better and more comfortable travel: Passenger Comfort

Comfort, accessibility, and availability are all interconnected in rail transportation. Knorr-Bremse combines modern technologies and digital services to create solutions that make travel easier for passengers and enable operators to run their fleets more efficiently.

• For regional and commuter trains, Knorr-Bremse presents the ZeroStepBoarding system in combination with the E4 double-leaf door system. With a door threshold reduced to as little as nine millimeters, it enables virtually step-free boarding and alighting and meets the strict European and American accessibility requirements. Contactless boarding via the TouchlessBoarding sensor and the ProDect 2S anti-pinch system further enhance safety and comfort while helping to reduce stop times. At the heart of the boarding system is the Select door control unit. It integrates door control with cybersecurity as well as digital service and maintenance functions such as condition monitoring and digital maintenance. This ensures transparent monitoring of system status and maintenance requirements.

• Sanitary systems are among the mission-critical components in rail transport. The Next Generation Toilet (NGT) monitors operational data such as vacuum and pressure buildup as well as tank levels in real time, laying the foundation for intelligent diagnostics and condition-based maintenance. This enables early detection of malfunctions, reduces downtime, and increases vehicle availability.

X.Sectional: The intelligence layer of the rail ecosystem

Smart on-train systems taken to a new level: With X.Sectional, Knorr-Bremse combines embedded electronic solutions, state-of-the-art software, and expertise in train communication and control technology. Real-time data exchange ensures that the train, track, and operations management work together seamlessly, making operational processes more efficient.

• Embedded Electronic Solutions combines the expertise of the Duagon and Selectron brands into a portfolio covering electronics, computing, control, communication, and new software developments for vehicles and their surroundings. At InnoTrans, Knorr-Bremse will showcase, among other things, solutions in the areas of Computing & Control and Train Control Network.

• Digital Solutions harness the potential of vehicle and infrastructure data through intelligent analysis and AI, providing in-depth insights into condition and performance. Solutions from Railnova, for example, make better use of fleet telemetry data and leverage intelligent analytics and AI, accelerate remote diagnostics and maintenance. At the same time, Knorr-Bremse is one of the driving forces behind the European Rail Data Space, a secure data platform that enables sovereign data exchange across operator, manufacturer, system, and national boundaries.

• With RailServices, Knorr-Bremse supports customers throughout the lifecycle of their fleets. Modernization, component maintenance, and refurbishment extend service life, conserve resources, and improve availability. Together with digital partner EYYES, Knorr-Bremse is introducing the AI-powered driver assistance system RailEye Front Collision Warning for metro, tram, and light rail operations. Intelligent cameras detect obstacles and people in the track area and alert train operators. If no response is received, the system can trigger automatic braking.

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.