With a programme backed by the German Ministry of Transport, DB Cargo aims to improve the efficiency of operations at major marshalling yards by introducing fully autonomous shunting locomotives, ready for series production by 2028. The rail company has launched the development of a fully automated shunting locomotive in collaboration with Bosch Engineering and Itk Engineering, both subsidiaries of Robert Bosch.
The innovation targets shunting operations at large rail hubs. The autonomous locomotive developed by DB Cargo promises to revolutionise these processes, enabling faster and driverless manoeuvres, with a direct impact on the competitiveness of single-wagon freight transport. “This will lead to greater profitability for DB Cargo and improved operational quality, making a significant contribution to the DB Group’s S3 recovery programme,” said Sigrid Nikutta, member of the Deutsche Bahn Management Board for Freight Transport and CEO of DB Cargo.
Following successful prototype trials at the Munich North yard, the project now awaits final approval from the Federal Railway Authority, expected by the end of 2027. Operational service is scheduled to begin in 2028 at DB Cargo’s main German hubs, with gradual nationwide deployment to follow.
The core technology of the new locomotive is being developed by Bosch Engineering, which is building an automation unit equipped with sensors and algorithms for environmental perception, capable of independently managing all phases of the shunting process. Itk Engineering, on the other hand, is working on the line control station, the interface through which operators will issue instructions to the automated locomotive. This integration between human and machine is designed to enhance the reliability and safety of operations.
The project is also receiving institutional support. The German Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) is funding its development as part of its programme to promote pioneering technologies for freight rail transport. This strategic choice reflects Germany’s commitment to strengthening intermodality and reducing the environmental impact of logistics by shifting an increasing share of traffic to rail.
