Europe has taken a concrete step toward Digital Automatic Coupler (DAC) deployment with the launch of the Pioneer DAC Train project. Partners signed a Memorandum of Understanding on 20 November in Copenhagen, establishing the framework for extensive DAC testing on key freight corridors.
PioDAC brings together operators from seven European countries, wagon keepers, workshops, industry suppliers and shippers. The aim is to validate DAC performance under varied operating conditions, from shunting yards to long-distance corridor traffic. The project is positioned as a core building block for interoperable rail freight.
VERS (VPI European Rail Service) is one of the signatories and will lead work on DAC installation and maintenance monitoring. The organisation already covers similar tasks in the DACFIT programme, creating synergies that reduce duplicated effort and strengthen technical foundations for DAC rollout. Insights from PioDAC will also feed into updates of the VPI European Maintenance Guide.
According to VERS Managing Director Heiko Radke, the focus lies on “clean technical installation and reliable maintenance fundamentals,” supported by the link with DACFIT and the EMG enhancements.
Pioneer DAC Trains are scheduled to enter service in 2027. They will operate across borders, serve yards, corridor routes and industrial sidings, and cover a wide mix of rolling stock and cargo types. Data collected during operations will assess robustness, operational suitability and economic performance. The project runs for 36 months and is co-funded by the EU’s Connecting Europe Facility.
