Thermo King to Unveil Next-Generation Intercity Train HVAC at InnoTrans 2026

New modular, platform-based solution combines intelligent fresh air regulation, advanced UV purification, and lightweight design to deliver smart lifecycle performance, sustainability, and passenger comfort.

 Thermo King®, a leader in transport temperature control solutions and a brand of Trane Technologies, will showcase its advanced rail passenger climate solutions at InnoTrans 2026 in Berlin from September 22–25. At the center of the showcase will be the global debut of Thermo King’s next-generation heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system for intercity trains.

Thermo King’s InnoTrans 2026 showcase underlines the company’s long-term commitment to helping rail customers modernise fleets with solutions that are future-ready, built for long-term reliability and tailored to real operating needs.

Developed in line with Thermo King’s platform-based product strategy, the new system features a modular, scalable and lightweight design. This offers rail customers a solution that can be customised to different requirements while supporting consistent performance and lifecycle efficiency across specific applications.

The new Thermo King unit is designed to provide full operational benefits while ensuring uncompromised passenger comfort and safety, making it a strong fit for today’s and tomorrow’s intercity rail environment. It combines climate control performance with features intended to improve onboard air quality and reduce energy use. These key innovations include:

• Advanced UV-Light Air Purification: Supports a safer, healthier onboard environment for passengers.
• Intelligent CO2-Based Fresh Air Regulation: Dynamically adjusts ventilation to optimise comfort while avoiding unnecessary energy consumption.
• Maintenance-Free Microchannel Condensers: Reduces overall weight and lowers the unit’s carbon footprint.
• Low GWP-Ready Architecture: Future-proofs HVAC investments by enabling a seamless transition to lower global warming potential refrigerants, helping operators stay ahead of evolving environmental targets.

Service-friendly maintenance access additionally supports long-term operational reliability and lower operating costs over time.

“Rail operators are looking for solutions that do more than manage temperature — they need systems that create a better onboard environment, improve fleet performance, and support sustainability ambitions,” said Mathieu Audureau, passenger HVAC transport leader, Thermo King. “Our next-generation HVAC platform answers those needs in one complete solution, combining intelligent design, serviceability, and advanced climate technologies.”

Over 30 Years of Rail Experience

Thermo King has supplied climate control solutions to the rail market for more than 30 years.

Thermo King Rail HVAC portfolio improves onboard comfort through ventilation, air treatment and temperature control across trams, trains and metro applications.

The company works with rail customers across the globe to develop systems tailored to their specifications and operating conditions, supported by connected solutions that give operators clear visibility into system information and performance.

All units and components undergo testing at Thermo King’s research and development facility in Prague, Czech Republic and are manufactured under certified production standards.

Visitors can view the new intercity rail HVAC unit and learn about other passenger climate solutions during InnoTrans 2026 at the Thermo King stand #620 in Hall 3.1.