Environmental measures

• Dual-mode locomotives: 43 new dual-mode locomotives No. 57 are to be delivered to DB Cargo in 2025; 20 were delivered in the first half of the year. The aim is for a total of 146 to be delivered by the end of 2027. They will replace older 261, 265 and 294 series vehicle types in the shunting locomotive clusters. Dual-mode locomotives offer major advantages in daily use compared to the diesel locomotives used to date and should make DB Cargo more efficient and productive.
• HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil) biofuel: In 2025, DB Cargo plans to further increase the share of HVO used to substitute fossil diesel in the refueling of its diesel locomotives to about 33%. A figure of almost 36% was already reached in the first half of 2025. The medium-term goal is an HVO share of 50% by the end of 2028.
• Energy recovery: As a further energy-saving measure, we intend to increase the electric braking forces of our Traxx locomotives in order to improve the recovery of electrical energy No. 19 during braking, thereby improving energy efficiency. Initial investigations show that increasing the electric braking forces (from 150 kN to 240 kN) can improve the recovery rate by 1 to 2 percentage points. This can save up to 6.9 GWh of traction current per year. A technical solution is currently being worked on with the manufacturer with the aim of achieving this increase in braking force by the end of 2025.
• Driver assistance system: Based on the results of the test period from January to May 2025, it was demonstrated in 2025 that the fuel consumption of class 77 series diesel main line locomotives with the LEADER driver assistance system No. 8 is reduced by about 4.5%. Five diesel main line locomotives were equipped with the driver assistance system in the first half of 2025. A further 55 locomotives from this series are to be equipped with LEADER by the end of 2025. The LEADER system supports train drivers with an additional display showing driving recommendations for the most energy-efficient driving possible.
• Energy management system: In connection with the Energy Efficiency Act (EnEfG), which came into force in 2023, DB Cargo AG decided in 2024 to introduce an energy management system in accordance with DIN EN ISO 50001. Level 1 certification (document review) was successfully completed in June 2025. Stage 2 of the implementation process (final certification) has been agreed for the third quarter of 2025.