Alstom has awarded Knorr-Bremse a contract to equip up to 90 new Adessia Stream suburban trains with braking systems, automatic couplers, and HVAC systems. The order, valued in the high double-digit million-euro range, marks the first time Alstom has commissioned Knorr-Bremse coupling technology. Trial operations are scheduled to begin in summer 2029 for deployment across the Rhine-Ruhr metropolitan region in Germany.
Highlights
- Contract scope: Braking systems, automatic front couplers, and air conditioning for up to 90 nine- and eleven-car trains measuring 150 and 170 meters
- First coupler order: Alstom selects Knorr-Bremse AutoLink and RescueLink coupling systems for the first time
- Timeline: Trial operations scheduled for summer 2029 serving VRR and go.Rheinland transit operators
- Braking technology: CubeControl braking control system with AirSupply Smart air treatment and magnetic track brakes
Braking and Coupler Systems
The contract includes Knorr-Bremse’s CubeControl braking control system, which the company identifies as the most widely installed system of its type globally. The braking package incorporates the AirSupply Smart air treatment system, which delivers compressed air on demand while reducing noise emissions.
Additional braking components include compact brake caliper units, magnetic track brakes, and sanding systems designed to optimize precision and operational performance.
AutoLink Coupling Technology
Knorr-Bremse will supply its AutoLink automatic front couplings and RescueLink adapter couplings, manufactured at the company’s Budapest facility. The coupling systems enable rapid, secure train connections and are designed to support operational efficiency and fleet availability.
HVAC Systems
The integrated air conditioning systems serve both passenger compartments and driver’s cabs. Key technical specifications include:
- Refrigerant: Natural propane refrigerant for reduced environmental impact
- Efficiency: Heat pump technology for enhanced energy performance
- Maintenance: Long-life filters to optimize lifecycle costs
Fleet Configuration
The Adessia Stream trains are configured as nine- and eleven-car units, each providing over 1,100 seats. The vehicles are designed for high passenger volumes and mixed urban-regional service patterns. Interior features include flexible configurations, barrier-free accessibility zones, and modern passenger information systems.
The fleets will serve the Rhine-Ruhr Transport Association (VRR) and go.Rheinland public transit operators, addressing regional expansion of suburban rail services.
Company Background
Knorr-Bremse AG, headquartered in Munich, Germany, manufactures braking systems and other subsystems for rail and commercial vehicles. Dr. Nicolas Lange, Executive Board Member responsible for the Rail Division, noted the order confirms the company’s technology and growth strategy in coupling systems alongside its established braking expertise.
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