Author: Batrak Oleksandr — Editor-in-Chief at Railway Supply

Smart freight train testing is under way at FS Logistix on the Milan–Catania Bicocca route. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

FS Logistix tests smart freight train on Milan–Catania
Photo: FS Logistix, FS Logistix tests smart freight train on Milan–Catania

Its first “smart train” is in operational trials. Mercitalia Intermodal is running the project with Mercitalia Rail. The trials focus on a wireless communication system linking onboard wagon sensors with the driver.

Smart freight train functions under testing

The functions under test include continuous brake system monitoring and load stability control. They also cover automatic verification of train composition and derailment detection, as Railmarket reports.

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WaggonTracker rollout and fleet modernisation

The trials follow an earlier digitalisation step. Meanwhile, the WaggonTracker digital system is already installed on part of the Mercitalia Intermodal fleet. In 2025, another 180 wagons are due to receive the smart train technology. According to FS News, that would take the number of digitalised wagons to about 700.

The smart freight train programme forms part of FS Logistix’s fleet modernisation plan. The technology is intended to reduce train preparation times. In addition, it is meant to support predictive maintenance. It is also intended to limit downtime linked to unplanned maintenance interventions.

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