DB Class 120

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The 120 is a class of electric locomotives operated by DB Fernverkehr in Germany. Its prototypes, delivered in 1979, were the first electric locomotives with three-phase motors. They were based on experiences made in the 1970s with diesel-electric test platforms. Hopes were to create the first truly universal locomotive, capable of pulling fast passenger trains as well as heavy freight trains. While the electric equipment exceeded expectations, the mechanical part suffered from its lightweight construction necessitated by the heavy electronics of the time.

After extensive tests, a series of 60 locomotives (designated class 120.1) were ordered in 1984 and delivered in 1987-1989. Original plans to build up to 1,000 machines were ultimately ended by DB's privatization. The 120s went to DB Fernverkehr, the other divisions of Deutsche Bahn ordered locomotives that featured technologies from the 120, but were not direct successors.

Baureihe 120
Technical data
Class number 120
Put into service 1979–1980 (120.0)
1987–1989 (120.1)
Retired In active service
Number built 65
Manufacturers BBC, Henschel, Krauss-Maffei, Krupp
Wheel arrangement Bo'Bo'
Maximum speed 200 km/h
Gauge 1435 mm
Length from buffer to buffer 19,200 mm
Service weight 84.0 tons
Number of motors 4
Power at rail 5.600 kW
Tractive effort 340 kN
Safety systems Sifa,Indusi
Brakes KE-GPR, electric brakes
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