Automatic gangway coupling and a whole new Stadler

German light rail technology firm Hübner has revealed its first real-world tests of its automatic gangway coupling system will take place in Canada in 2025. 

The AutoCouple product was trailed in early September before its official launch in Berlin this week, and the inter-car train gangways trial location has been revealed. 

Toronto Subway will play host to the tool, which is aiming to make more efficient use of existing fleets, by making the process of lengthening or shortening trains (depending on passenger demand) easier and quicker.

The company claimed the coupling time can be reduced from 30 to just five minutes. 

“With the HÜBNER AutoCouple System, it should be possible for train drivers to uncouple or add cars to the train with the push of a button in a fully automatic process. During the entire coupling process, the train should be able to remain connected to the power grid,” explained Balamurali MK, Innovation & Product Developer in HÜBNER’s Mobility Rail division.