53,000 whispering wagons in Germany
The freight wagons that are rolling across Germany’s rail network are substantially quieter than they were a few years ago. That is because around 53,000 units – or 85% of DB Cargo’s freight car fleet - have been fitted with whisper brakes.
The railfreight operator said that all of its around 63,000 wagons in service will be fitted with modern, low-noise brake blocks by 2020. Deutsche Bahn wants to cause 50% less noise on the country’s rail network next year compared to 1999.
In addition to equipping the remainder of its freight wagons with whisper brakes, the rail service provider is planning to introduce more noise control measures this year. They include, for example, the development of new technologies for vehicles and tracks that will result in enhanced noise protection. (ben)