Environmental measures

DB Cargo is making a significant contribution to the shift in the mode of transport to rail, and thus to the achievement of German and European climate protection targets.

• Dual-mode locomotives: 43 new dual-mode locomotives were delivered to DB Cargo in 2025. The aim is for a total of 146 dual-mode locomotives to be delivered by the end of 2027. These will replace older vehicle types in the shunting diesel locomotive cluster. Dual-mode locomotives offer considerable advantages in day-to-day use. On electrified track sections they are run electrically, while on sections without overhead wires they can switch to diesel drive without changing locomotives. This saves time-consuming repositioning and switching. Single wagon transport in particular should benefit from this.
• HVO biofuel: In 2025, the amount of HVO used to replace fossil diesel in the refueling of our diesel locomotives at DB Cargo increased. For DB Cargo in Germany, the HVO share was about 35 % (previous year: about 33 %).
• LEADER driver assistance system: 17 Class 77 diesel main line locomotives were fitted with the LEADER driver assistance system in 2025. A total of 60 vehicles are to be equipped by the end of March 2026 (corresponding to about two-thirds of the diesel main line locomotive fleet). The LEADER system supports traction unit drivers with an additional display showing driving recommendations for the most energy-efficient driving possible. In the electric locomotive fleet, an overall energy saving of about 15 % could be achieved in 2025 with LEADER.
• Energy management system: The introduction of an energy management system in accordance with the international standard DIN EN ISO 50001 was resolved at DB Cargo AG in 2024. In October 2025, DB Cargo AG achieved the corresponding certification of its ISO management system. Building on the previous energy audits in accordance with DIN EN 16247, this is aimed at supporting the targeted control of energy consumption and increasing energy efficiency in addition to compliance with legal requirements.
• Climate resilience: DB Cargo uses the Group-wide weather platform Wetter@DB. Filters have been developed to filter specifically for DB Cargo hubs and freight corridors in Germany. An integrated early warning system enables our supervisors to issue warnings in good time and initiate appropriate measures. When defined threshold values are reached, for example for expected gusts of wind or snowfall, the operating sites receive automatic messages by email or text message. Depending on the situation, DB Cargo deploys additional staff to safeguard operations and, in extreme cases, affected trains are suspended. Frost guards keep trains and facilities ready for operation during frost.