Deutsche Bahn turns to AI as rail delays persist

Deutsche Bahn is testing AI and automated transport systems as Germany's rail operator tries to modernise a network known in recent years for delays and ageing infrastructure.

At the InnoTrans rail trade fair in Berlin, an "Automated Train" unit was shown with technology that can move it driverless from a depot to a station at speeds of up to 40 kilometres per hour. The system uses LiDAR, ultrasonic sensors and infrared cameras to detect hazards and brake automatically.

Germany's economy ministry has subsidised the programme with 42 million euros, or $47 million. The support forms part of a plan to spend 100 billion euros through 2030 on modernising Deutsche Bahn's infrastructure after years of underinvestment.

Transport Minister Steffen Bilger said rail transport had to return to high performance. But upgrade work is also causing disruption, including a planned 14-month closure of a major rail corridor between Berlin and Hanover for rebuilding.

Deutsche Bahn also showed a virtual passenger assistant due to launch this year. Industry companies at InnoTrans presented systems using data to improve operations and maintenance.

Germany's rail digitalisation remains limited. The rail advocacy group Allianz Pro Schiene said less than two percent of the national network had the European Train Control System in 2025, compared with a European average of nine percent.

Consulting firm BCG estimated that AI in railways could save $36 billion to $79 billion in costs worldwide and add $20 billion to $50 billion in annual revenue. It also said much of the sector was still struggling to turn experiments into measurable results.

Start-ups working with Deutsche Bahn said German regulation remains a hurdle. OTIV chief Sam de Smet said there was still extensive work to do on authorisations and changing rules before new technologies could be widely used.

Deutsche Bahn is considering replacing regional bus lines with autonomous shuttles, but sees a possible rollout only toward 2045. The train drivers' union GDL said it would watch whether digital tools were used to justify job cuts, while automation company Futurail said its aim was to address staff shortages, not replace drivers.