Knorr-Bremse Wins Alstom Contract: New Couplings for Cologne S-Bahn

Knorr-Bremse secures a multi-million euro contract with Alstom to supply braking and coupling systems for 90 Adessia Stream trains, boosting efficiency on the Cologne S-Bahn.

January 21, 2026 9:39 am

🛑 Key Takeaways:

Knorr-Bremse has won a contract from Alstom to supply critical systems for 90 new Adessia Stream trains for the Cologne S-Bahn network.
The deal, valued in the “tens of millions of EUR,” includes braking, HVAC, and, for the first time, Knorr-Bremse’s automatic coupling technology for Alstom.
This sub-contract solidifies Knorr-Bremse’s role in Alstom’s record EUR 4 billion German order and expands its product integration with the rolling stock manufacturer.

MUNICH, GERMANY – Knorr-Bremse has secured a contract from Alstom, valued in the tens of millions of euros, to supply braking, air conditioning, and automatic coupling systems. The components are for up to 90 new Adessia Stream suburban trains ordered by public transport operators Rhine-Ruhr and go.Rheinland. The contract is scheduled to be awarded at the end of 2025.

Category	Specification / Detail
Project / Model	Cologne S-Bahn Network / Alstom Adessia Stream
Fleet Size & Length	Up to 90 trains; 150m and 170m variants
Supplier Contract Value	“Tens of millions of EUR” (Knorr-Bremse)
Prime Contract Value	EUR 4 billion (Alstom’s deal with operators)
Key Stakeholders	Alstom (Manufacturer), Knorr-Bremse (Supplier), Rhine-Ruhr & go.Rheinland (Operators)
Project Financing (Partial)	EIB (€1B), KfW IPEX-Bank (€400M), NRW. Bank (€350M)

Operational & Technical Details

The contract marks a significant expansion of the supplier relationship. Knorr-Bremse will provide its AutoLink automatic front couplings and RescueLink adapters to Alstom for the first time. These systems, manufactured in Budapest, are designed for rapid coupling to increase fleet availability. The braking package is centered on the CubeControl braking control system. It includes the AirSupply Smart air treatment system for on-demand compressed air and lower noise emissions. The setup is completed by compact brake calipers, magnetic rail brakes, and sanding systems for enhanced performance.

Market Impact Analysis

By securing the coupling systems supply, Knorr-Bremse deepens its integration into Alstom’s value chain beyond its traditional braking and HVAC stronghold. This order anchors the company within Alstom’s largest-ever train contract in Germany, a EUR 4 billion deal that includes 34 years of maintenance. The selection of Knorr-Bremse’s efficiency-focused components reflects a broader industry trend where operators prioritize total lifecycle cost and operational availability, particularly on high-density networks like the Cologne S-Bahn.

FAQ: Quick Facts

What is the main value of this contract?

The contract for Knorr-Bremse is valued in the “tens of millions of EUR.” It is a sub-contract within a larger EUR 4 billion project awarded to Alstom for 90 trains and 34 years of maintenance.

When will the contract be executed?

Knorr-Bremse stated it will receive the contract at the end of 2025. The delivery of systems will align with Alstom’s production schedule for the Adessia Stream fleet.