
Drives for auto-shuttle trains in challenging terrain
Robust drives for safe transport in auto-shuttle trains
Auto-shuttle trains play a crucial role in transporting vehicles to islands or other remote regions. They enable smooth and fast transfer of cars, motorcycles, and other vehicles, providing an indispensable alternative to ferries. Especially for heavily trafficked routes, these trains are essential for the local economy, tourism, and the mobility of residents.
Our Caterpillar drives are perfectly aligned with the requirements of auto-shuttle trains. They offer high reliability and efficient power transmission, even under harsh conditions. Complemented by comprehensive service and digital fleet monitoring, they ensure maximum availability and smooth operation.
Planning
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Engineering
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- Process Technology
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Project Management
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Plant Construction
- Electrical Installation
- Assembly
- Commissioning and Test Run
Service
- Maintenance
- Routine Servicing
- Troubleshooting Service
Zeppelin Power Systems Solutions for Rail
Maximum reliability for continuous operation: Cat diesel drives for auto-shuttle trains
Robust drives for daily use in auto-train transport
Drives for auto-shuttle trains must meet the highest standards due to the special operating conditions they face. Our Caterpillar locomotive drives are specifically designed to meet these challenges. Their robust construction and advanced technology ensure high reliability, even under heavy traffic and continuous operation, which is particularly required during peak travel times. Our drive solutions can easily handle continuous operation, preventing disruptions in the flow of traffic.
In coastal areas, where wind, high humidity, and saltwater exposure put extra strain on the technology, Cat drives impress with their corrosion resistance and longevity. At the same time, they provide efficient power transmission, ideal for transporting heavy loads over short distances. Even with frequent starts and stops, the drives remain powerful and energy-efficient, ensuring smooth operation.
Comprehensive services and digital fleet monitoring
Zeppelin Power Systems complements the high-quality Cat drives with first-class service and digital solutions. This enables precise monitoring and predictive maintenance to minimize downtime and ensure maximum availability of the auto-shuttle trains.
We are happy to advise you in selecting the optimal drive solution for your auto-shuttle operations.
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Robustness and reliability
Our Cat engines are known for their robust construction and durability. They are designed for continuous operation under demanding conditions, offering the highest operational reliability – a crucial factor for car trains that are in daily service and cannot afford any downtime.
Efficient fuel usage
Thanks to modern injection technologies and optimized engine control, our drives significantly reduce fuel consumption. This not only lowers operating costs but also minimizes the ecological footprint of the trains – an increasingly important aspect for sustainable operation in the transport sector.
Emissions-compliant technologies
Our Caterpillar engines meet even the strictest emissions standards, such as EU Stage V or EPA Tier 4 Final. This is especially important for car trains operating in sensitive natural areas, such as coastal regions, where environmental regulations must be strictly adhered to.
High performance with heavy loads
Car trains often need to transport several dozen vehicles at once. Our drives provide the necessary power and traction to operate efficiently, even under full load.
Compact design and integration
The modular and compact designs of Cat drives enable easy integration into existing or new train constructions. This also facilitates future retrofits or adjustments, such as the integration of modern battery storage systems.
Our service: Comprehensive and available around the clock
With comprehensive service, innovative retrofit and upgrade solutions, and digital monitoring technology, we ensure maximum efficiency, reliability, and future-proofing of your drive systems.
Zeppelin Power Systems Digital Solutions for rail
Technical and digital services for auto-shuttle trains

Always in view: Monitor your fleet with FOC and AEC
With the digital technologies from Zeppelin Power Systems, such as Fleet Operations Center (FOC) and Active Equipment Connect (AEC), you have constant visibility of your auto-shuttle trains. The systems enable real-time monitoring and provide precise data to optimize operations. This helps minimize downtime and ensures the long-term maximization of your fleet's availability.
Tailored service for auto-shuttle trains
Zeppelin Power Systems offers comprehensive services for auto-shuttle trains – from installation and maintenance to quick repairs. With modular service contracts and personalized support, we ensure maximum efficiency and reliability for your fleet. Rely on our expertise to keep your trains operational for the long term.
Car trains – versatile transport solutions for vehicles
In addition to car shuttle trains, there are several other types of car trains that are designed to transport vehicles on rails.
Motorail trains (car trains)
Motorail trains offer car owners the opportunity to cover long distances without having to drive themselves. These trains are particularly suitable for families with young children, seniors, individuals with limited mobility, and vacationers who want to avoid long drives. Typical use cases for motorail trains include long-distance holiday travel, relocations, business trips with company cars, and the transport of classic cars.
Car ferry trains
Car ferry trains combine rail and water transport and are especially important in regions with extensive coastal areas or numerous islands. They enable the transport of vehicles across bodies of water, help overcome geographical barriers, and avoid long detours. This type of transport also provides a comfortable travel option for families and groups. They are often used in scenarios such as holiday travel in coastal regions, business trips with vehicle transport, and logistical challenges in fragmented landscapes.
Rolling Road (RoLa)
RoLa trains are specifically designed for freight transport but also offer advantages for vehicle transportation. They allow trucks and commercial vehicles to be transported over long distances, relieving road infrastructure and making transportation more efficient. These trains provide an environmentally friendly alternative to road traffic and are particularly useful for international transport of heavy goods.
Combined car trains (Kombi trains)
These trains accommodate both cars and passengers, allowing a combination of vehicle transport and travel in one. They are ideal for travelers who wish to take their vehicle along without having to drive long distances themselves. They are used for both long distances and shorter crossings, particularly in European countries.
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