A G 322 locomotive operated by Northrail has been retrofitted with the Voith/Scharfenberg Type 10 automatic shunting coupler. The installation was carried out in cooperation with the Voith Group and represents the first deployment of this coupling system on a locomotive in Germany.
The automatic coupler eliminates the need for auxiliary coupling adapters when connecting locomotives with regional multiple units. It allows for a mechanical connection that engages automatically, reducing manual handling during shunting operations. This is intended to simplify workflows and lower the physical risks typically associated with coupling procedures.
The modification was implemented on a G 322 locomotive from Northrail’s fleet. This model was adapted to support the Type 10 automatic coupling system, enabling it to directly connect to regional trainsets that are otherwise incompatible with traditional hook-and-screw or semi-automatic couplers.
The Voith/Scharfenberg Type 10 coupler enables fast and secure mechanical engagement between vehicles, targeting applications where shunting locomotives are required to move or assist passenger trainsets. The system was evaluated and approved in compliance with German railway safety regulations.
Teams from Voith and DB Regio were involved in the inspection and validation of the installation. The project focused on gathering technical insights for potential future retrofitting of similar locomotives used in regional operations.
