UK: Rolling stock leasing company VTG Rail UK has signed a long-term framework agreement for Knorr-Bremse Rail Systems UK to supply its FreightControl Sentinel system, which combines real-time digital monitoring of rolling stock with anti-slide technology and forms the backbone of VTG’s iWagon platform for the digitalisation of wagons.
The first wagons fitted with the FreightControl Sentinel system entered service in April, and VTG Rail UK has since received additional orders for both new-build and retrofitted iWagons which will begin to enter service by the end of the year.
Under the framework agreement announced on November 19, VTG Rail UK has committed to purchasing FreightControl Sentinel technology for a minimum of 2 000 new-build and retrofitted wagons by the end of 2029. The agreement also includes joint development of future product generations, shared digital data insights and co-ordinated industry engagement.
Knorr-Bremse Rail Systems UK said the agreement represents ‘a significant commercial opportunity’ with a forecast value of up to £40m.
‘It represents a strong endorsement of FreightControl Sentinel and the wider digital freight solutions we are bringing to market’, said Paul Goodhand, Managing Director of Knorr-Bremse Rail Systems UK. ‘Together with VTG, we are not only delivering innovative hardware and software, but also redefining how data can enhance operations, safety and efficiency across the UK rail freight sector.’
