Siemens Mobility Leads RemODtrAIn Project to Pioneer 5G-Based Remote Train Operation and AI Obstacle Detection

From left to right: Stefan Heidemann (Advisor in Department IV A 3 Digitalization, Industry 4.0 at the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy), Martin Baier (CTO DB Fernverkehr AG and Head of Fleet Management), Marc Ludwig (CEO Rail Infrastructure Siemens Mobility GmbH), Win Neidlinger (CEO Mira GmbH)

(IN BRIEF) The RemODtrAIn research project led by Siemens Mobility aims to develop secure remote-controlled train operations for depots using 5G-based communication and AI obstacle detection. Supported by €17 million in federal funding, the consortium is testing a remotely operated ICE 4 under real operational conditions, along with further testing at the Smart Rail Connectivity Campus with a Desiro Classic. The project expands the findings from previous automated rail programmes and addresses challenges such as workforce shortages and depot capacity limitations. Deutsche Bahn will validate operational requirements, while DB Systemtechnik contributes safety and cybersecurity expertise. Trials for the detection system will later extend to the Berlin S-Bahn, with full vehicle validation scheduled for 2028.

(PRESS RELEASE) BERLIN, 5-Dec-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — A major research initiative titled “RemODtrAIn” (Remote operated train with AI-based Obstacle Detection) has been launched to advance the digitalization and automation of rail operations. Led by Siemens Mobility, the consortium is focused on developing a secure remote-control system for train movements in depots, supported by an AI-powered obstacle detection module that enhances safety during remote shunting activities. Building upon previous work carried out under AutomatedTrain and safe.trAIn, the project continues close collaboration with Deutsche Bahn and strengthens a long-term innovation partnership within the rail sector.

As part of the programme, an ICE 4 train will be equipped with 5G technology enabling remote operation from a central depot control room, even under variable communication conditions. The project has been awarded €17 million in funding under the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy programme DNS – Sustainable Mobility: Digital, Sustainable, System-capable. Research and testing will be conducted both at the ICE depot in Cologne-Nippes and under real-world operating conditions at the Smart Rail Connectivity Campus in Annaberg-Buchholz, where a Desiro Classic unit will also undergo 5G testing.

Marc Ludwig, CEO Rail Infrastructure at Siemens Mobility, said the initiative is a key step toward scalable automated rail operations, noting Siemens’ responsibility for specification, system integration and practical field trials. Dr. Jasmin Bigdon, CTO at Deutsche Bahn, explained that remote shunting technology will help increase depot capacity, reduce operational bottlenecks, support workforce gaps and improve efficiency for customers and employees. Operational testing will involve DB Fernverkehr, DB RegioNetz Infrastruktur and DB Systemtechnik to ensure real-world applicability and cybersecurity robustness.

“RemODtrAIn” places emphasis on train availability, depot efficiency and stabling operations, with sensor systems designed so they can later support multiple train types. The research includes defining safety-critical system architectures, developing retrofit-ready solutions, evaluating communication resilience including satellite integration potential, and conducting scenario-based testing. Obstacle-detection trials are also planned for the Berlin S-Bahn, with overall validation activities targeted for 2028.

The project is being delivered in cooperation with 12 partner organizations, including Siemens Mobility GmbH, DB AG, DB Fernverkehr AG, DB Systemtechnik GmbH, DB RegioNetz Infrastruktur GmbH, Mira GmbH, Smart Rail Connectivity Campus e.V., the German Aerospace Center (DLR), and the Technical Universities of Berlin, Chemnitz, and Munich.

Siemens Mobility is a separately managed company of Siemens AG. As a leader in intelligent transport solutions for more than 175 years, Siemens Mobility is constantly innovating its portfolio. Its core areas include rolling stock, rail automation and electrification, a comprehensive software portfolio, turnkey systems as well as related services. With digital products and solutions, and the use of industrial AI, Siemens Mobility is enabling mobility operators worldwide to make their infrastructure intelligent, increase value sustainably over the entire lifecycle, enhance passenger experience, and guarantee availability. In fiscal year 2025, which ended on September 30, 2025, Siemens Mobility posted revenue of €12.4 billion and employed around 43,400 people worldwide. Further information is available at: www.siemens.com/mobility

Media contact:

Silke Thomson-Pottebohm
Siemens Mobility GmbH
+49 174 305 3307
silke.thomson-pottebohm@siemens.com

Andreas Furhmann
Deutsche Bahn AG
+49 (0)30 297-60016
andreas.fuhrmann@deutschebahn.com

SOURCE: Siemens AG