DB Cargo Highlights Network Expansion and Digital Innovation at KONTImodal Conference 2026
DB Cargo has outlined its vision for the future of European combined transport at the KONTImodal Conference 2026, highlighting the importance of stronger rail networks, increased service frequencies and advanced digital technologies to improve supply chain resilience.
The conference, held on September 17 at the German Football Museum in Dortmund, brought together customers, logistics operators and industry partners to discuss developments in continental intermodal transportation. Discussions focused on expanding European rail connections, improving operational reliability and strengthening cooperation between transport providers.
A major highlight was the participation of Hupac CEO Britta Weber and Kombiverkehr Managing Director Dirk Steffes, who presented plans to enhance their European transport networks. Among the developments discussed was a new joint service connecting Duisburg in Germany with Barcelona La Llagosta in Spain, designed to improve cross-border freight connectivity.
Hupac also presented its Shuttle Net concept, which focuses on consolidating freight volumes along high-demand corridors and providing frequent rail services. Selected routes are expected to operate more than 20 round trips per week, offering customers greater flexibility and more reliable transportation options.
Digital innovation was another central topic. Martin Hofmann, CEO of Novagentica, explored the potential of agentic artificial intelligence in logistics. Such systems could monitor shipments, identify disruptions, evaluate alternative routes and initiate operational responses automatically within predefined parameters.
By combining transport information from railways, shipping companies, road carriers, ports and warehouse systems, these technologies could eventually enable more responsive and efficient supply chain management.
The conference demonstrated how European rail freight is evolving beyond individual transport connections towards integrated, digitally supported networks. For DB Cargo and its industry partners, expanding connectivity, increasing service frequencies and adopting intelligent technologies will be essential to building more resilient and competitive logistics operations.
Image source: dbcargo.com
