Italy’s RFI Unveils Tipo 4: Rail Diagnostics & Infrastructure

RFI launches “Tipo 4” **diagnostic trains** in Florence, renewing Italy’s fleet. This initiative enhances **railway** infrastructure monitoring and predictive maintenance capabilities.

Italy’s RFI Unveils Tipo 4: Rail Diagnostics & Infrastructure
October 28, 2025 1:54 pm
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Introduction

Rete Ferroviaria Italiana (RFI) of the Gruppo FS has delivered the first “Tipo 4” self-propelled unit to Florence, marking a significant advancement in Italian railway diagnostics. This unit is part of a broader initiative to renew Italy’s national diagnostic fleet.

Fleet Deployment

The “Tipo 4” train is the first of 15 bimodal units scheduled for deployment throughout Italy. These units are designed to operate on conventional lines, railway hubs, and station yards. Following the entry into service of “Diamante 2.0” on the high-speed network in mid-2024, the “Tipo 4” expands the new generation of diagnostic trains to the conventional network.

Program Scope

The fleet renewal program is set to continue until 2029. By the end of the program, a total of 30 new diagnostic trains will be in service across both high-speed and conventional networks.

Technical Specifications

Externally, the “Tipo 4” resembles a standard RFI yellow train. It is equipped with dual traction capabilities, using both diesel and 3 kV electric power. This allows the unit to reach speeds of up to 140 km/h during diagnostic missions.

Diagnostic Capabilities

The train is equipped with a range of multi-sector sensors and monitoring systems. These systems continuously measure track geometry, wear, contact line condition, running dynamics, and wheel-rail and pantograph-catenary interaction. High-definition cameras provide visual inspections of the track and overhead line, while other instruments assess the quality of telecommunications signals and the performance of signalling systems. The collected data will enable the development of predictive models for infrastructure degradation.

Last June 2025, we published an article about Renfe’s cutting-edge Aranjuez maintenance hub. Click here to read – Future of Rail: Renfe’s Railway Technology Hub, Aranjuez: Essential Guide

Conclusion

The “Tipo 4” incorporates advanced digital system architecture and a comprehensive array of diagnostic tools. RFI aims to use this data to develop predictive models of infrastructure degradation, enabling preventive maintenance and improving system reliability.

Company Summary

Rete Ferroviaria Italiana (RFI): A company within the Gruppo FS, responsible for the development and deployment of railway diagnostic technologies.

Gruppo FS: The parent company of RFI.

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