China has successfully tested a new control system that allows multiple freight trains to travel in a coordinated convoy without physical coupling. According to developers, the technology could increase the country’s rail freight capacity by more than 50% without the need to build new tracks.

The test was conducted on the Baoshen Railway in Inner Mongolia. Seven freight trains with a combined load of 35,000 tons moved along the line at the minimum safe distance from one another.

Control was carried out using wireless signals, enabling synchronized acceleration and braking across all trains with no risk of collision.

The platoon-control system was developed with the participation of state-owned enterprises and research organizations and is seen as a promising direction for advancing high-tech solutions in rail freight transport.