Knorr-Bremse and VTG to Introduce New iWagons in the UK

A new long-term framework agreement has been signed by both Knorr-Bremse and VTG Rail UK for the exclusive supply of FreightControl Sentinel Systems.

The agreement, which has been valued in a ‘double-digit million-EUR range’, will see Knorr-Bremse deliver at least 2,000 wagon sets equipped with its technology to VTG Rail UK by the end of 2029.

The partnership will also include both the delivery and integration of the technology into all supplied vehicles, as well as the joint development of future system generations and digital dashboards.

Knorr-Bremse’s FreightControl Sentinel Systems will form the digital backbone of the new VTG iWagon, which itself is the result of close collaboration between the two companies.

Utilising mechatronic components, advanced sensors and intelligent data analysis; the iWagon will also use FreightControl Sentinel’s Wheel Slide Protection technology, which enables immediate monitoring of both wheels and brake condition, reducing wheel defects such as flat spots.

Mario Beinert, Member of the Management Board of Knorr-Bremse Rail Vehicle Systems:

With this pioneering project, Knorr-Bremse and VTG Rail UK are pursuing the goal of sustainably increasing the availability, efficiency, and competitiveness of rail freight transport.

With FreightControl Sentinel, Knorr-Bremse is once again positioning itself as a leader in modular, scalable digital solutions with tangible added value for customers.

The solution transforms new and existing freight wagons into intelligent iWagons with continuous monitoring of safety-relevant components, thus optimizing the planning, maintenance, and operation of fleets for operators.

In addition to the rollout in the UK, we will soon be offering the solutions in other rail markets – initially in Europe.

VTG Rail UK has stated that it has already received a number of orders for the iWagons from customers including Heidelberg Materials, Breedon Group, Tarmac, Alvance British Aluminium and more.

Knorr-Bremse has also stated intentions to roll out FreightControl Sentinel across European markets where demand is considerable for digital solutions such as Wagon-as-a-Service.