Alstom has appointed Knorr‑Bremse to supply a comprehensive suite of braking, air‑conditioning, and coupling systems for its next‑generation Adessia Stream suburban trains. The new fleet is destined for two major public transport authorities in Germany: Rhine‑Ruhr and go.Rheinland.
Under the agreement, Knorr‑Bremse will equip up to 90 trains, each measuring 150 or 170 metres, marking the first time Alstom has ordered automatic front couplings from the supplier. Trial operations are expected to begin in summer 2029, supporting the region’s ambition to expand capacity and improve the attractiveness of metropolitan rail services. The order, finalised at the end of 2025, is valued in the high double‑digit million‑euro range.
Dr. Nicolas Lange, Member of the Executive Board of Knorr‑Bremse AG and globally responsible for the Rail Division, said:
“Attractive rail transport is key to the mobility of tomorrow, as current public investment initiatives underscore. We have long been shaping this future with system technology that sets standards. The fact that our partner Alstom is once again relying on our braking expertise and integrating our coupling systems for the first time confirms our technology and growth strategy. The suburban trains for the Rhine-Ruhr metropolitan region meet the highest demands on quality, performance, and comfort – areas in which our efficient, reliable systems play to their strengths.”
Focus on Safety, Reliability, and Passenger Comfort
The Rhine-Ruhr Transport Association (VRR) and go.Rheinland have set stringent requirements for reliability across their suburban rail fleets. Alstom’s vehicle design reflects those expectations, and Knorr‑Bremse’s systems will play a key role in meeting them.
For the first time, Alstom will integrate Knorr‑Bremse’s ‘AutoLink’ automatic front couplings and ‘RescueLink’ adapter couplings. Manufactured at Knorr‑Bremse’s Budapest technology centre, these systems enable rapid, secure coupling operations, boosting fleet availability, simplifying maintenance, and supporting operational efficiency—a critical factor as passenger numbers continue to rise across Europe’s metropolitan rail networks.
Knorr‑Bremse will also supply a suite of proven braking technologies, including:
- ‘CubeControl’, the world’s most widely deployed brake control system
- Low‑noise, maintenance‑optimised braking equipment
- Magnetic track brakes and sanding systems for enhanced performance in challenging conditions
- The latest ‘AirSupply Smart’ air treatment system, delivering compressed air on demand while reducing noise emissions
Passenger comfort is further enhanced through Knorr‑Bremse’s integrated HVAC systems for both driver cabs and passenger saloons. Using propane as a natural refrigerant, the units support climate‑friendly railway operations. Heat‑pump technology and long‑life filters help reduce energy consumption and improve lifecycle costs.
A Tailor‑Made Vehicle Concept for the Rhine and Ruhr
Alstom’s new Adessia Stream™ platform represents a step change in regional mobility for one of Europe’s busiest transport corridors. The planned fleet of ninety nine‑ and eleven‑car trains, each offering more than 1,100 seats, is engineered to handle high passenger throughput and a blend of urban and regional journeys.
Features include:
- Flexible interior layouts
- Barrier‑free accessibility
- Modern real‑time information systems
Combined with Knorr‑Bremse’s braking, HVAC, and coupling technology, the trains deliver a robust, future‑ready solution designed for reliable, high‑performance operation across the Rhine‑Ruhr metropolitan region.
Image credit: Alstom Advanced & Creative Design
