DB Class 401

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DB Class 401 (ICE 1)

ICE 1 powerhead at Frankfurt Airport
Power type	electric
Builder	AEG, ABB, Henschel, Krauss-Maffei, Krupp, Siemens
Build date	1989—1993
Total production	120 powerheads (60 trains)
UIC classification	Bo'Bo'
Length	20.56 m
Total weight	77.5 t
Electric system	15 kV 16.7 Hz AC
Top speed	280 km/h
Power output	4,800 kW
Tractive effort	200 kN
Safety systems	Sifa, PZB90, LZB

The German Baureihe 401 EMUs, better known as ICE 1, were the first German high-speed trains in revenue service. They serve the InterCityExpress network. While classified as electric multiple units, they are actually conventional trains with two locomotives (called powerheads in this case) and 10 to 14 carriages in between. The two powerheads' combined power output of 9,600 kW is sufficient to accelerate a full train to 280 km/h. Because the top speed is limited to 250 km/h inside tunnels on most high-speed lines, the top speed on those lines has been reduced to 250 km/h for economic reasons.

In mid-1988, Deutsche Bundesbahn ordered 82 powerheads to start InterCityExpress service in mid-1991. Because of the tight development schedule, the powerheads are closely derived from the Class 120 locomotive with a different gear ratio and more aerodynamic cover. In July 1990, another 38 powerheads were ordered for service into Switzerland. Those units are equipped with a second, narrower pantograph and Swiss train safety systems.

ICE 1 trains can be differentiated from the similar ICE 2 trains by the greater length of the train and the prominent, hunchback-shaped restaurant car.

One Class 401 powerhead was destroyed in the Eschede train disaster, while the second remained as a spare. Another powerhead was lost to a fire.

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