---
title: "UIC Freight Wagons - Digital Coupling"
canonical: "/uic-freight-wagons-digital-coupling"
published: 2026-09-18
---

# UIC Freight Wagons - Digital Coupling

## Frame

## Frame

**Rail**

**UIC Freight Wagons**

**Digital Coupling**

## Frame

### DAC

###### DIGITAL COUPLING

##### DAC

##### Digital Automatic Coupling

###### Digital Automatic Coupling for Connected Freight Operations

The Digital Automatic Coupling (DAC) integrates mechanical coupling, pneumatic connections, power supply and digital communication into one interoperable solution. By automating traditionally manual train preparation processes, DAC improves safety, reduces operational complexity and enables more efficient train handling across the freight network.

Developed by Dellner and offered through the Wabtec-Dellner Stronger Together partnership, DAC combines proven automatic coupling technology with advanced train systems and digital capabilities to support the future evolution of freight rail operations.

As the digital backbone of future freight trains, DAC supports train-wide connectivity and data exchange, enabling functionalities such as automated brake testing, train integrity monitoring and future automated operating concepts. With a scalable architecture designed for the next generation of freight rail, DAC helps operators increase efficiency, improve asset utilization and prepare for the transition toward digital and highly connected rail operations.

**Customer Benefits**

### CCU

###### DIGITAL COUPLING

##### CCU

##### Central Control Unit

###### Central Intelligence for Connected Freight Trains

The Wagon Central Control Unit (CCU) is the central communication and control platform for digital freight train operations. Designed for both new-build and retrofit freight wagons, it enables interoperable train-wide communication through the Freight Ethernet Train Backbone (ETB), supporting the exchange of operational data and the execution of advanced digital train functions.

By integrating train communication, power management, battery charging and wireless connectivity into a single scalable platform, the CCU enables key functionalities such as train composition, automatic brake testing, train integrity monitoring and train length management. Its upgradeable hardware and software architecture supports evolving digital rail applications while ensuring interoperability across mixed fleets and operating environments.

Acting as the digital intelligence hub of the freight train, the CCU helps operators improve train availability, simplify maintenance activities and create the foundation for future automation and connected rail services.

**Customer Benefits**

### Hybrid DAC

###### DIGITAL COUPLING

##### Hybrid DAC

##### Hybrid Digital Automatic Coupling

###### Content under review

Hybrid DAC bridges the gap between conventional freight train operations and the future of fully digital and automated rail transportation. By combining proven coupling technology with digital communication capabilities, it enables operators to progressively introduce train connectivity and digital functions without requiring an immediate fleet-wide adoption of full DAC systems.

Developed by Dellner and offered through the Wabtec-Dellner Stronger Together partnership, DAC combines proven automatic coupling technology with advanced train systems and digital capabilities to support the future evolution of freight rail operations.

Designed to support phased migration strategies, Hybrid DAC provides access to train-wide data exchange and digital services while maintaining operational flexibility and interoperability during the transition period. By enabling a gradual deployment of digital train technologies, Hybrid DAC helps operators increase efficiency, reduce implementation risks and prepare their fleets for the next generation of connected freight rail solutions.

**Customer Benefits**

**DAC**

**CCU**

**Hybrid DAC**

## Frame