InnoTrans 2026 concluded in Berlin on 25 September after attracting approximately 175,000 trade visitors from more than 120 countries, according to organiser Messe Berlin. The four-day transport technology exhibition featured 3,190 exhibitors from 59 countries across the Berlin Exhibition Grounds. The final figure included 750 companies exhibiting at InnoTrans for the first time.
Artificial intelligence, digitalisation and alternative propulsion were prominent themes, while rail freight technology formed an important part of the wider exhibition and conference programme.
Freight goes digital
Developments around the digitalisation of rail freight were particularly relevant. Europe’s Rail used InnoTrans to demonstrate technologies associated with its Seamless Rail Freight and Innovative Freight Assets programmes. Sessions considered how digital technology could make rail freight more attractive to customers and contribute to a more connected European logistics network.
The programme included discussion of self-propelled freight wagons and wagon digitalisation, while a separate presentation considered how continuous monitoring and AI could change freight wagon maintenance. Digital Automatic Coupling technology was also demonstrated during the exhibition.
Scale highlights rail investment
The overall scale of InnoTrans provides an indication of continuing investment in rail and associated transport infrastructure.
This year’s show occupied all 42 halls at Messe Berlin and approximately 200,000 square metres of exhibition space. The outdoor exhibition included 113 vehicles, while the event featured technologies spanning passenger transport, rail infrastructure and freight. Technologies that improve wagon utilisation, maintenance, interoperability and shipment visibility could help address some of the operational barriers associated with moving more freight by rail.
InnoTrans is also expanding internationally. The first InnoTrans Asia is scheduled to take place at Singapore Expo from 7–9 September 2027.
