German rolling stock

18 201

Steam locomotive 18 201

The 18 201 is a one-off: assembled in 1961 at the Meiningen works from pre-war parts, certified for 180 km/h, and so the world's fastest operational steam locomotive.

18 201

18 201

18 201 is regarded as the fastest operational steam locomotive in the world: a one-off with wheel arrangement 2'C1', built from parts of several locomotives.

Alstom 203 701

203 701

The 203 701 belongs to the modernised V 100 diesel locomotives from Alstom's Stendal works: centre cab, four axles, service with private operators and on engineering trains.

Alstom Coradia iLINT

iLINT

The Coradia iLINT was the world's first hydrogen multiple unit in passenger service. Two-car, 140 km/h, a fuel cell instead of a diesel engine – and almost a LINT on the outside.

Alstom Prima H3

Prima H3

The Prima H3 is a three-axle hybrid shunting locomotive from Alstom's Stendal plant: battery plus diesel generator, compact body, running as Class 1002 at DB.

Class 01.10

BR 01.10

The Class 01.10 was the three-cylinder development of the 01: 55 engines, streamlined from the factory, rated for 150 km/h. Today only seen as a heritage vehicle.

Class 18.4–5 (Bavarian S 3/6)

Bavarian S 3/6

The Bavarian S 3/6 ranks among the most elegant German express steam locomotives: a Maffei four-cylinder compound with 2'C1' wheel arrangement, run by the Reichsbahn as Class 18.4–5.

Class 23

BR 23

The Class 23 was the Deutsche Bundesbahn's new-build passenger steam locomotive: 105 machines between 1950 and 1959, wheel arrangement 1'C1', built as the successor to the Prussian P 8.

Class 38 (Prussian P 8)

Preußische P 8

The Prussian P 8 is the most-built German passenger steam locomotive: around 3,900 examples from 1906, listed by the DRG as Class 38.10-40. Here's how to recognise it.

Class 381 (Ks)

Kleinlok Bauart Ks

Class 381 isn't a steam locomotive but a battery-powered small locomotive for light shunting duty. 46 built from 1930 – only museum survivors remain today.

Class 50

BR 50

Class 50 is the most successful German freight steam locomotive: over 3,000 built, five coupled axles, low axle load. Today it only runs in heritage service.

Class 50.40

Baureihe 50.40

Class 50.40 was the Bundesbahn's Franco-Crosti experiment: 31 converted freight locomotives with a preheater boiler and side-mounted chimney. None survive.

Class 515 (ETA 150)

ETA 150

Class 515 was the Bundesbahn's battery railcar: 232 vehicles, built from 1953, in service until 1995. Today you'll only encounter it in heritage operation.

Class 52

Baureihe 52

Class 52 is Germany's most-built steam locomotive: over 7,000 wartime locomotives with five coupled axles. Today you'll only encounter it in museum operation.

Class 52.80

Baureihe 52.80

Class 52.80 is the rebuilt version of the wartime Class 52: 200 locomotives with a new boiler, converted from 1960. Today one of the most common museum steam locomotives.

Class 55 (Prussian G8 / G8.1)

Baureihe 55

Class 55 groups together the Prussian freight locomotives G 8 and G 8.1: four-coupled tender locomotives with no leading or trailing axle. Here's how to identify them.

Class 56.30 (Prussian G 8.2)

Preußische G 8.2

Class 56.30 stands for the Prussian freight locomotive G 8.2: four coupled axles plus a leading carrying axle. One small carrying axle sets it apart from the 55.

Class 57.10–35 (Prussian G 10)

Preußische G 10

Class 57.10–35 is the Prussian freight locomotive G 10: five coupled axles, no carrying axle, tender. Here's how to identify and find it today.

Class 58 (Prussian G 12)

Preußische G 12

Class 58 stands for the Prussian G 12: a three-cylinder freight locomotive with five coupled axles and a carrying axle. Here's how to identify it in museum operation.

Class 64

BR 64

The Class 64 is the Reichsbahn's standard tank engine for passenger trains: 520 machines, 1-3-1 wheel arrangement, nicknamed Bubikopf. Here's how to recognise it reliably.

Class 65.10

BR 65.10

Class 65.10 is a heavy passenger tank locomotive from the Deutsche Reichsbahn's new-build programme. Here's how to recognise it and find it on heritage railways.

Class 70

BR 70

The Class 70 stands for small passenger tank locomotives of Bavarian origin – the Pt 2/3 class. Here's how to read its designation and spot it in museums.

Class 75

BR 75

The Class 75 is a collective class: passenger tank locomotives with wheel arrangement 1'C1' from several state railways. Here's how to place it in museum service.

Class 78

BR 78

The Class 78 is the Prussian T 18: a large passenger tank locomotive with wheel arrangement 2'C2' that could run at 100 km/h in either direction.

Class 80

BR 80

Class 80 is the Reichsbahn's compact standard shunting locomotive: three coupled axles, no carrying axles, tank engine design. Here's how to identify it reliably.

Class 81

BR 81

Class 81 is the Reichsbahn's heavy standard shunting locomotive: four coupled axles, no carrying axles, tank engine design. Here's how to spot it in a museum.

Class 815

BR 815

Class 815 is the non-powered driving trailer for the Class 515 battery railcar. Now a historic vehicle – here's how to recognise and find it.

Class 88

BR 88

Class 88 is a DRG collective number for freight tank locomotives from former state-railway fleets. Here's how to read the number – and what's left of it today.

Class 89

BR 89

Class 89 covers three-coupled tender locomotives built for shunting duties. Here's how to recognise them – and where you can still find them today.

Class 89.3

BR 89.3

Class 89.3 is a sub-class of the three-coupled shunting tender locomotives. Here's how to read numbers like this – and what they reveal about the locomotive.

Class 90

BR 90

Class 90 is a DRG collective number for freight tender locomotives inherited from the state railways. Here's how to understand the system behind it.

Class 91

BR 91

Class 91 stands for tender locomotives with coupled axles plus an extra carrying axle. Here's how to read the wheel arrangement and place these machines.

Class 92

BR 92

Class 92 covers four-coupled tender locomotives built for heavy shunting duties. Here's how to recognise them and place them correctly.

Class 93

BR 93

Class 93 stands for symmetrically built tender locomotives with carrying and coupled axles – the classic branch-line machine of the Reichsbahn era.

Class 94

BR 94

The Class 94 is the heavy tank locomotive of the DRG system: five coupled axles, maximum adhesive weight, built for gradients and hump yards.

Class 95

BR 95

The Class 95, the Mountain Queen, is one of the largest German tank locomotives: five coupled axles, two carrying axles, built for steep gradients.

Class 97

BR 97

The Class 97 is the number group for rack locomotives. How rack operation works, which systems exist, and how to recognise vehicles like this.

Class 98

BR 98

The Class 98 groups together the branch-line locomotives of the state railways – light engines for lightly built secondary lines. Here's how to place them.

Class 98.7 (Bavarian BB II)

Bavarian BB II

The Class 98.7 descends from the Bavarian class BB II: a branch-line tank locomotive with a divided Mallet running gear. Here's how to read its designation and design.

DB Class 1004

Class 1004

The designation DB Class 1004 falls outside the classic German numbering scheme. This page shows how to read such numbers and identify the vehicle safely.

DB Class 41

BR 41

Class 41 was the fast freight locomotive among the standard-design locomotives: 366 engines, wheel arrangement 1'D1', 90 km/h. Today it only runs as a museum and special-train locomotive.

DB Class 66

BR 66

Only two engines of the Class 66 were ever built: a new-build tender locomotive of DB with wheel arrangement 1'C2'. Here's how to recognise it and where to find it in museum service.

DR Class 01.5

BR 01.5

The Class 01.5 was created by rebuilding the old standard Class 01 at the Meiningen works: new boiler, modernised cab, some engines converted to oil firing – today they are museum vehicles only.

DR Class 22

BR 22

The Class 22 was created as a rebuild of the Prussian P 10: four coupled driving axles, three cylinders, a new boiler – from 1970 it ran on as Class 39.10.

DR Class 23.10 / 35.10

BR 23.10

The Class 23.10 was the Deutsche Reichsbahn's last new-build passenger locomotive. 113 locomotives, run as Class 35.10 from 1970 – today it only runs as a museum piece.

DR Class 42

BR 42

The Class 42 was the heavy war locomotive KDL 3: 1,061 built, 1'E wheel arrangement, constructed from 1943. Today it survives only as a preserved museum vehicle.

DR Class 50.35

BR 50.35

Class 50.35 is the Reko version of Class 50: 208 engines with a new-build boiler, converted from 1957 at the Stendal works. Today a common museum locomotive.

DR Class 65.10

BR 65.10

The DR Class 65.10 is a new-build tank locomotive of the Deutsche Reichsbahn for heavy passenger services. Here's how to recognise it and tell it apart from the DB variant.

DR/DB Class 44

BR 44

The Class 44 was the heavy freight locomotive of the standard-design classes: five coupled axles, three cylinders, around 1,989 built. The "Jumbo" now only runs in preservation.

DRG Class 01

BR 01

The Class 01 was the first standard express locomotive of the Deutsche Reichsbahn: 2'C1', two cylinders, 130 km/h. Today the surviving engines run only as museum vehicles.

DRG Class 03

BR 03

The Class 03 was the lighter sister of the 01: same wheel arrangement 2'C1', same top speed, but a lower axle load – so it could run on far more lines.

DRG Class 03.10

BR 03.10

The Class 03.10 was the Reichsbahn's light, three-cylinder high-speed locomotive: 60 engines from 1939 and 1940, originally streamlined, rated for 150 km/h.

HELMS

works locomotive HELMS

HELMS is a vehicle name, not a class: read the proper names on works locomotives, find the builder's plate and reliably identify industrial steam locomotives.

KDL 8

Kriegsdampflokomotive Typ 8

KDL 8 belongs to the standardised war steam locomotives for industrial and field railways. Here's how to place the type series and tell it apart from the Reichsbahn's war locomotives.

Krupp Knapsack

Knapsack

Krupp Knapsack combines a manufacturer name and a works designation – typical for industrial locomotives. Here's how to read such names and correctly identify the vehicle.

Prussian T 11

Preußische T 11

The Prussian T 11 is a saturated-steam tank locomotive with the 2'C wheel arrangement, built for suburban services. On the Reichsbahn it became Class 74.

Prussian T 12

Preußische T 12

The Prussian T 12 is the superheated variant of the suburban tank locomotives with 2'C wheel arrangement. On the Reichsbahn it ran as Class 74 with high running numbers.

Siemens Mireo Plus H

Mireo Plus H

The Mireo Plus H is the hydrogen variant of Siemens' Mireo platform: fuel cell plus battery, no pantograph, used on lines without an overhead line.

Siemens Vectron Dual Mode

Vectron DM

The Vectron Dual Mode is a bi-mode locomotive: it runs electrically under the wires and with a diesel engine on non-electrified sections. In Germany it is Class 248.

Siemens Vectron Dual Mode light

Vectron DM light

The Vectron Dual Mode light is the lighter bi-mode variant of the Vectron family: overhead wire and diesel engine in one locomotive. Here's how to recognise and document it.

Stadler Euro 9000

Euro9000

The Euro 9000 is a six-axle, multi-system dual-power locomotive from Stadler for heavy, cross-border freight traffic. Here's how to identify it reliably.

Stadler Eurodual

Eurodual

The Eurodual is a six-axle dual-power locomotive from Stadler, running in Germany as Class 159. Here's how to identify it and tell it apart from the Euro 9000.

Stadler RS ZERO

RS ZERO

The Stadler RS ZERO stands for lightweight local trains with zero-emission traction. Here's how to read the designation and vehicle number – and classify the vehicle correctly.

Steam Locomotive 41 018

41 018

41 018 is a preserved individual locomotive of Class 41 – a fast freight engine with wheel arrangement 2'D1'. Here's how to read the number and spot the class.

Vossloh Modula EBB

Modula

The Modula is Vossloh's modular locomotive platform from Kiel. This page explains what lies behind the designation and vehicle number and how to place the locomotive in the field.

Bombardier TRAXX

TRAXX

TRAXX isn't a single class but a platform: the same base locomotive in many variants. Here's how to decode the type designations and identify the family.

Bombardier Twindexx Vario

Twindexx Vario

Twindexx Vario refers to the double-deck coaches used in locomotive-hauled push-pull trains. Here's how to tell them apart from a multiple unit and read the formation correctly.

Class 113

E 10.12

The Class 113 is the fast Bügelfalte variant of the E 10. Here's how to recognise it, understand its renumbering history and find it today.

Class 114

BR 114

The Class 114 is a four-axle AC locomotive for fast regional services – technically a 112.1 with a different number. Here's how to recognise it and place it correctly.

Class 115

BR 115

The Class 115 is a four-axle vintage electric locomotive from the E 10 family with the distinctive Bügelfalte front. Here's how to recognise it and place its number correctly.

Class 120

BR 120

The Class 120 was the world's first series-built three-phase locomotive: 200 km/h, 5,600 kW and the technical basis for almost all modern German electric locomotives.

Class 139

BR 139

The Class 139 is the E 40 fitted with an electric resistance brake – a four-axle freight locomotive for steep-gradient lines. Here's how to tell it apart from the near-identical 140.

Class 140

BR 140

The Class 140 is the Bundesbahn's classic freight electric locomotive: boxy body, four axles, 110 km/h. Here's how to recognise it and tell it apart from 139 and 141.

Class E 04

E 04

Class E 04 is a 1930s standard electric locomotive with the distinctive 1'Co1' wheel arrangement. Here's how to place it and tell it apart from sister classes.

Class E 16

E 16

Class E 16 wears its most important feature openly: the Buchli drive with large discs on just one side. Here's how to recognise and photograph it.

Class E 17

E 17

Class E 17 belongs to the standard electrics of the interwar years. Here's how to read its design, its designation and its place in electric-locomotive history.

Class E 18

E 18

Class E 18 was the express electric of the 1930s at 150 km/h – and one of the most beautiful. Here's how to recognise it and place its numbers.

DB 112 150

112 150

112 150 stands for a single locomotive of Class 112.1. This page shows how to identify a specific locomotive rather than just its class.

DB Class 101

BR 101

The Class 101 is Deutsche Bahn's classic long-distance locomotive: 145 engines, 220 km/h, in front of IC and EC trains since the late 1990s. Here's how to reliably recognise it.

DB Class 102

BR 102

The DB Class 102 is a small series of six Škoda locomotives that run with double-deck express trains. Here's how to recognise them and tell them apart from Classes 101 and 111.

DB Class 103

BR 103

The DB Class 103 was the flagship of German long-distance rail for decades: six axles, 200 km/h, TEE red. Here's how to recognise it and find it today.

DB Class 105

Class 105

The designation Class 105 regularly causes confusion. This page explains the German numbering system and how to reach a clear answer on the vehicle itself.

DB Class 109 (E11)

E 11

The E 11 was Deutsche Reichsbahn's passenger locomotive and is now known as Class 109. Here's how to recognise it and understand the renumberings behind it.

DB Class 110 (E10)

E 10

The E 10 was Deutsche Bundesbahn's standard passenger locomotive for decades. Here's how to recognise the Class 110, its sub-variants and its sister locomotives.

DB Class 111

BR 111

The DB Class 111 was Germany's local-service locomotive for decades: 227 machines, two front variants, 160 km/h. Here's how to recognise it reliably.

DB Class 112.1

BR 112

The DB Class 112.1 is the fast regional-service locomotive from Hennigsdorf. Here's how to recognise it and tell it apart from the related Classes 114 and 143.

DB Class 141 (E41)

BR 141

The Class 141 is the light local-service locomotive of the standard electric locomotive family – shorter than the 140 and known as the "Knallfrosch". Here's how to spot it reliably.

DB Class 142 (E42)

BR 142

The Class 142 is Deutsche Reichsbahn's freight locomotive from Hennigsdorf – E 42 before 1970, renumbered after 1990. Here's how to recognise it and its relatives.

DB Class 143

BR 143

The Class 143 is Deutsche Reichsbahn's most-built electric locomotive and remains a major presence in local services today. Here's how to recognise it and tell it apart from the 112 and 114.

DB Class 151

BR 151

The Class 151 is the Bundesbahn's heavy six-axle freight locomotive: 170 machines, 6,300 kW, 120 km/h. Here's how to recognise it and tell it apart from the 155.

DB Class 152

BR 152

The Class 152 is the freight variant of Siemens' EuroSprinter family: 170 locomotives, 6,400 kW, four axles. Here's how to identify it confidently in service.

DB Class 155

BR 155

The Class 155 is the Reichsbahn's heavy six-axle freight locomotive: 273 units, 5,400 kW, 125 km/h. Here's how to recognise it and tell it apart from the 151.

DB Class 156

BR 156

The Class 156 is one of the rarest German electric locomotives: just four units, six-axle, with the modern front of the Hennigsdorf new-build generation.

DB Class 180

BR 180

The Class 180 is the dual-system locomotive for cross-border traffic into the Czech Republic: 20 units with two different pantographs on the roof.

DB Class 181

BR 181

The Class 181 was, for decades, DB's dual-system locomotive for traffic into France and Luxembourg. Here's how to place it and how to identify it reliably.

DB Class 182

BR 182

The DB Class 182 is the German numbering variant of the Siemens Taurus. Same locomotive, different markings – here's how to recognise it and place it in the family.

DB Class 189

BR 189

The Class 189 is Siemens' multi-system freight locomotive: up to four electrification systems, many country packages. Here's how to identify it and read its variants.

Siemens ES 64 P (Eurosprinter)

ES 64 P

The Siemens ES 64 P is the prototype from which the entire Eurosprinter family emerged: a single locomotive numbered 127 001. Here's how to place it.

Siemens Smartron

Smartron

The Smartron is the deliberately stripped-down standard variant of the Siemens Vectron for the German network. In Germany it runs as Class 192 – here's how to identify it.

Siemens Vectron

Vectron

The Vectron is Siemens's modular locomotive platform and shapes European freight services. Here's how to identify the variants and read the number correctly.

Bombardier DE-AC33C Blue Tiger

Blue Tiger

The Blue Tiger DE-AC33C is a six-axle diesel-electric freight locomotive born from the collaboration between Adtranz and General Electric – rare, but unmistakable.

Class 231

DR 131

The Class 231, carried by the Deutsche Reichsbahn as the 131, is the unheated freight variant of the Soviet six-axle diesels. Here's how to place it correctly.

Class 232

DR 132

The Class 232, alias Ludmilla, is Germany's best-known six-axle diesel locomotive: 709 machines of Soviet manufacture. Here's how to recognise it in service.

Class 241

BR 241

The Class 241 is the uprated rebuild of the six-axle Ludmilla for heavy freight traffic. Here's how to identify it and tell it apart from the 232 and 233.

Class 273 (G 1206)

MaK G 1206

The Class 273 covers locomotives of the MaK/Vossloh G 1206 type: four-axle diesel locomotives with a centre cab, widely used by private freight operators.

Class 275

Vossloh G 1206

Class 275 covers four-axle diesel locomotives of the MaK/Vossloh G 1206 type. Here's how to read the vehicle number and recognise the bodyshell in freight traffic.

Class 280 (V 80)

V 80

The V 80, renumbered Class 280 from 1968, was the Bundesbahn's first four-axle diesel-hydraulic main-line locomotive – the model for the V 100 and V 160.

Class 293 (V 100 East)

V 100 Ost

Class 293 covers re-engined conversions of the DR V 100: four-axle diesel locomotives now running mostly for private operators and on engineering trains.

Class W232

232 rebuild

Behind the designation W232 stands a rebuilt variant of the six-axle Ludmilla family. This page explains what the designation tells you – and what it doesn't.

DB Class 201 (V100)

BR 201

The Class 201 is the base version of the East German V 100, renumbered from 1992. Here's how to recognise it and tell it apart from the related rebuilt variants.

DB Class 202 (V100)

BR 202

The Class 202 is the version of the East German V 100 fitted with electric train heating. Here's how to recognise it and place it in the V 100 family.

DB Class 203 (V100)

BR 203

The Class 203 are re-engined East German V 100 locomotives – today running mainly with private railway companies. Here's how to recognise them and tell them apart from the original vehicle.

DB Class 204 (V100)

BR 204

The Class 204 is a re-engined East German V 100 fitted with train heating. Here's how to recognise it and place it securely in the V 100 family.

DB Class 211 (V100)

BR 211

The Class 211 is the lighter version of the West German V 100, classified as V 100.10 until 1968. Here's how to recognise it and place it correctly.

DB Class 212 (V100)

BR 212

The Class 212 is the more powerful West German V 100, classified as V 100.20 until 1968. Here's how to identify it and tell it apart from its sister classes.

DB Class 213 (V100)

BR 213

The Class 213 is the steep-line version of the West German V 100, fitted with extra braking equipment. Here's how to identify it and place it correctly.

DB Class 214 (V100)

BR 214

The Class 214 isn't a new-build locomotive but a rebuild designation within the West German V 100 family. Here's how to place it correctly.

DB Class 215

BR 215

The Class 215 belongs to the V 160 family: 150 four-axle diesel locomotives for 140 km/h, built from 1968. Here's how to identify it and tell it apart from its sisters.

DB Class 216 (V160)

V 160

The Class 216 is the original version of the V 160 family: a four-axle main-line diesel locomotive with hydraulic power transmission. Here's how to identify it and tell it apart from the 215 and 218.

DB Class 217 (V162)

V 162

The Class 217, designated V 162 before 1968, was the trial class for electric train heating via an auxiliary diesel unit. Here's how to place this rare small series.

DB Class 218

BR 218

The Class 218 is Germany's best-known main-line diesel locomotive: four axles, diesel-hydraulic, 140 km/h. Here's how to identify it and find it in service today.

DB Class 225

BR 225

The Class 225 was created from Class 215 locomotives that had their train heating removed. Here's how to identify the four-axle freight diesel locomotive in service.

DB Class V 200

V 200.0

The V 200 is the classic diesel-hydraulic main-line locomotive of the Bundesbahn – and, at the same time, a completely different Reichsbahn machine. This page cleanly separates the two.

DR Class 219

DR 119

The Class 219, run by the Deutsche Reichsbahn as the 119 and nicknamed U-boat, is a six-axle diesel locomotive built in Romania. Here's how to place it.

DR Class 229

BR 229

The Class 229 is the remotorised rebuild of the six-axle Class 219. Same U-boat silhouette, different technology – here's how to recognise and tell them apart.

DR Class V 180

DR V 180

The V 180 was the Deutsche Reichsbahn's big diesel-hydraulic main-line locomotive – with two engines and, depending on the build series, four or six axles.

Gmeinder D 180 BB

Gmeinder D180BB

The Gmeinder D 180 BB is one of the large four-axle industrial diesel locomotives from Mosbach. Its type code reveals drive type, power class and wheel arrangement.

Gmeinder DE 75 BB

Gmeinder DE75BB

The Gmeinder DE 75 BB stands for the diesel-electric line from Mosbach: four axles, generator instead of gearbox – and a type key that tells you directly.

MaK G 1206

Vossloh G 1206

The MaK G 1206 is a four-axle centre-cab locomotive for freight and heavy shunting duties – and turns up almost everywhere on private railways.

OnRail DH 1004

DH 1004

The OnRail DH 1004 is a four-axle diesel-hydraulic locomotive from a small batch – rare in the fleet, but easy to identify by its shape.

Siemens ER 20

Eurorunner

The Siemens ER 20 Eurorunner is one of the few modern diesel locomotives in Germany that also hauls passenger trains – with a diesel-electric three-phase drive.

Voith Gravita 10BB

Gravita 10 BB

The Voith Gravita 10BB is DB Cargo's modern shunting and trip locomotive: four axles, diesel-hydraulic, with a centre cab – Class 261 in the register.

Voith Gravita 15L BB

Gravita 15L

The Voith Gravita 15L BB is the long, more powerful sister of the 10BB: four-axle, diesel-hydraulic, with a centre cab – registered as Class 265.

Voith L04-18035 (northrail 265 302-0)

Voith Gravita 15L BB

Behind the unwieldy designation Voith L04-18035 is a single diesel locomotive of the Gravita family: 265 302-0, registered by the leasing company northrail.

Voith Maxima 30CC

Maxima 30 CC

The Voith Maxima 30CC is a six-axle diesel-hydraulic main-line locomotive from Kiel – rare, strikingly large and a real catch for spotters.

Voith Maxima 40CC

Maxima 40 CC

The Voith Maxima 40CC is considered the world's most powerful single-engine diesel-hydraulic locomotive: six axles, around 3,600 kW and an unmistakable silhouette.

Vossloh DE 12

DE 12

The Vossloh DE 12 is the diesel-electric variant of the modern Kiel locomotive family: four axles, a centre cab and traction motors instead of a hydraulic transmission.

Vossloh DE 18

DE 18

The Vossloh DE 18 is the most powerful diesel-electric locomotive in the modern Kiel family: four axles, a centre cab, traction motors instead of a hydraulic transmission.

Vossloh Eurolight

Eurolight

The Vossloh Eurolight is a four-axle diesel-electric main-line locomotive for passenger and freight trains – in Great Britain it runs as the Class 68.

Vossloh G 1000 BB

G 1000 BB

The Vossloh G 1000 BB is one of the most frequently seen diesel locomotives of private operators: four axles, diesel-hydraulic, with a centre cab and two hoods of unequal length.

Vossloh G 12

G 12

The Vossloh G 12 belongs to the modern Kiel locomotive family: four axles, hydraulic transmission and a type designation that gives away the power class directly.

Vossloh G 1700-2 BB

G 1700-2 BB

The Vossloh G 1700-2 BB sits between trip loco and main-line machine: four axles, hydraulic transmission and the typical Kiel layout with a centre cab.

Vossloh G 18

G 18

The Vossloh G 18 is the most powerful hydraulic locomotive in the modern Kiel family: four axles, a centre cab and a designation that states its power class directly.

Vossloh G 2000 BB

G 2000 BB

The Vossloh G 2000 BB is the heavy hydraulic transmission locomotive from Kiel – four axles, diesel-hydraulic and, in its striking design variant, hard to mistake.

Vossloh G 800 BB

G 800 BB

The Vossloh G 800 BB is the smallest of the classic Kiel BB diesel locomotives: four axles, centre cab, hydraulic transmission – built for works and trip-working services.

Alstom Coradia Max

Coradia Max

Coradia Max is the product designation under which Alstom markets double-deck vehicles. In service, what counts isn't this name but the German class number on the vehicle.

Class 401 (ICE 1)

ICE 1

The ICE 1 is the first ICE generation: two Class 401 power cars, up to twelve intermediate cars in between, and a restaurant car with a raised roof. Here's how to spot it.

Class 402 (ICE 2)

ICE 2

The ICE 2 is the half-train among the ICE family: a Class 402 power car at the front, a driving trailer with a nose flap at the rear. Two half-trains can be coupled and split en route.

DB Class 403 (ICE 3)

ICE 3

The ICE 3 of Class 403 is the first ICE without power cars: eight coaches, distributed underfloor traction, 330 km/h and the lounge with a view ahead. Here's how to recognise it.

DB Class 406 (ICE 3)

ICE 3M

Class 406 is the multi-system ICE 3. Almost identical to the 403 on the outside, but built for several electrification systems – the differences are on the roof.

DB Class 407 (ICE 3)

Velaro D

Class 407 is the Siemens Velaro D: a multi-system ICE 3 of the second design generation – without the lounge behind the driver's cab and with its own nose shape.

DB Class 408 (ICE 3)

ICE 3neo

Class 408 is the ICE 3neo, the newest build of the ICE 3 family: eight coaches, multi-system, no lounge – and clearly distinguished from 403 and 407 by modern details.

DB Class 410.1 (ICE S)

ICE S

The ICE S isn't a passenger train, but DB Systemtechnik's high-speed measuring train. Two Class 410.1 power cars, measuring coaches in between – and no timetable.

DB Class 411 (ICE T)

ICE T

The Class 411 is the seven-car ICE T with active tilting technology: a narrower body tapered at the bottom, 230 km/h, and the train built for winding lines.

DB Class 412 (ICE 4)

ICE 4

The Class 412 is the ICE 4: a multiple unit with powered powercars that runs to seven, twelve or thirteen cars depending on the variant. Here's how to identify it reliably.

DB Class 415 (ICE T)

ICE T

The Class 415 is the five-car variant of the ICE T: the same tilting technology as the Class 411, the same body profile – just considerably shorter and rarer.

ICE L (Talgo 230)

ICE L

The ICE L is the most unusual ICE of all: a low-floor Talgo articulated train with very short coaches, single-axle running gear and a locomotive at the front.

Alstom Coradia Continental (Class 440 / 441)

Class 440

The Coradia Continental is one of Germany's most-built regional multiple units. Here's how to recognise Classes 440 and 441 by head shape, doors and vehicle number.

Bombardier Flexity Berlin (GT6-12 ZRL)

Flexity Berlin

The Flexity Berlin is BVG's modern low-floor tram. The type code GT6-12 ZRL reveals almost everything – once you know how to read it.

Bombardier Leoliner (Leipzig)

Leoliner

The Leoliner is the low-floor tram developed in Leipzig, deliberately kept simple. How to recognise it and how it differs from the larger LVB types.

Bombardier NGT6DD (Dresden)

NGT6DD

The NGT6DD is the short low-floor tram of the Dresdner Verkehrsbetriebe. The type code reveals body type, size and city – once you know how to read it.

Bombardier NGTD12DD (Dresden)

NGTD12DD

The NGTD12DD is the long low-floor articulated tram of the Dresdner Verkehrsbetriebe. Count the segments and the type is unambiguously identified.

Bombardier Talent 2 / 3 (Class 442 / 443)

Talent 2

The Talent 2 is hard to miss thanks to its bulging front end – it's earned the nickname hamster cheeks. Here's how to reliably identify it and the Talent 3.

Class 1440 (Alstom Coradia Continental)

BR 1440

The Class 1440 is the younger generation of the Alstom Coradia Continental. Its four-digit number reveals a lot about the German class numbering system – and about the train itself.

Class 1463 (Siemens Mireo)

Siemens Mireo

The Class 1463 belongs to Siemens' Mireo family – the modern regional multiple unit with an aluminium body shell and Jacobs bogies. Here's how to recognise it in the field.

Class 2462 (Siemens Desiro HC)

Desiro HC

The Desiro HC is the most distinctive regional multiple unit on the network: single-deck end cars, double-deck intermediate cars. The Class 2462 belongs to this family.

Class 3428 (Stadler FLIRT XL)

FLIRT XL

Class 3428 belongs to Stadler's FLIRT family. Short powered bogies at the train ends and Jacobs bogies in between make it recognisable.

Class 3462 (Siemens Desiro HC)

Desiro HC

Class 3462 is one of several number groups of the Siemens Desiro HC. How to recognise the family – and why only the vehicle number reveals the group.

Class 423/433

ET 423

Class 423 is the face of Germany's modern S-Bahn and the founding member of a whole vehicle family. Here's how to recognise it and place its relatives.

Class 424/434

ET 424

Class 424 belongs to the 423 family but is designed for different platform heights. That's exactly what gives it away – and where most identifications go wrong.

Class 425/426/435

ET 425

Class 425 is the regional variant of the 423 family, and the 426 its two-part short version. You'll recognise both by the same front shape – and by train length.

Class 427 (Stadler FLIRT)

BR 427

Class 427 is the three-part Stadler FLIRT in German regional service. Car count, Jakobs bogies and the vehicle number get you to the right answer in seconds.

Class 428 (Stadler FLIRT)

BR 428

Class 428 is the four-part Stadler FLIRT. Count the car sections, check the gangways, read the number – and you'll reliably tell it apart from 427, 429 and the four-digit FLIRT variants.

Class 429 (Stadler FLIRT)

BR 429

Class 429 is the longest version of the Stadler FLIRT, with five car sections. Car count and gangway design lead you reliably to the right answer.

Class 440 (Alstom Coradia Continental)

BR 440

The Class 440 is the Alstom Coradia Continental: an electric regional multiple unit whose intermediate cars run under their own class. Here's how to recognise it confidently.

Class 445 / 446 (Bombardier Twindexx Express)

BR 445

The Class 445 is a double-deck multiple unit: double-deck cars with their own drive and no separate locomotive. Its intermediate cars run as Class 446.

Class 4462 (Siemens Desiro HC)

BR 4462

The Class 4462 is a Siemens Desiro HC: single-deck end cars, double-deck intermediate cars. The step in height behind the head is unmistakable.

Class 450

BR 450

The Class 450 isn't a number you meet every day. This page shows you how to classify such a class properly by build type and UIC number, instead of guessing.

Class 452

BR 452

Class 452 belongs to the numbering block for electric multiple units. This page explains the system behind it – and how to verify a vehicle instead of guessing.

Class 455

BR 455

Class 455 belongs to the numbering block for electric railcars. This page explains how numbers are reassigned over the decades and how to verify a sighting properly.

Class 460 (Siemens Desiro ML)

BR 460

Class 460 is a single-deck electric regional multiple unit from the Siemens Desiro ML family. The neighbouring number 462 belongs to a completely different design.

Class 462 (Siemens Desiro HC)

BR 462

Class 462 belongs to the Siemens Desiro HC family: single-deck end cars, double-deck intermediate cars. The 46x block is tightly packed – all the more reason to read the exact number.

Class 463 / 464 (Siemens Mireo)

BR 463

Classes 463 and 464 are the German numbers for the Siemens Mireo – two length variants of a modern regional multiple-unit family. Here's how to recognise them.

Class 470 (Hamburg S-Bahn)

BR 470

Class 470 was a DC multiple-unit class of the Hamburg S-Bahn. Here's how to place it, tell it apart from the 471 and 472 – and how to document it.

Class 479

BR 479

Class 479 sits in the 47x DC block, but it isn't an S-Bahn: it's a small fleet of railcars with its own overhead line away from the main network.

Class 492

BR 492

Class 492 belongs to the 49-block for electric multiple units outside the big S-Bahn families. Here's how to proceed correctly with a rarely documented number.

Class 493 (Extertalbahn 21 and 22)

Extertalbahn 21

Behind Class 493 stand the electric railcars 21 and 22 of the Extertalbahn – vehicles of a light railway you don't spot on a platform but trace through history.

Class 557 (CAF Civity BEMU)

CAF Civity BEMU

A multiple unit with a pantograph running on a line without overhead wires: Class 557 from the CAF Civity family is a battery multiple unit – and that's exactly how you recognise it.

Class 563 (Siemens Mireo)

Siemens Mireo

Class 563 belongs to the Siemens Mireo family. How to recognise the Mireo, how the number blocks 463, 1463 and 563 relate, and what sets it apart from the FLIRT.

DB Class 420 / 421

ET 420

The Class 420 is the original German S-Bahn train: three cars, no gangway between them, built from 1969. Here's how to recognise it – and tell it apart from the 423.

DB Class 422 / 432

BR 422

The Class 422 is the direct evolution of the 423 – and its near-identical twin. Here's what genuinely sets the two apart.

DB Class 430 / 431

BR 430

The Class 430 is a three-car S-Bahn electric multiple unit for networks with overhead line. Its most distinctive feature is the extendable sliding step at the doors.

DB Regio Dosto (Twindexx Vario)

Twindexx Vario

Double-deck coaches with a driving trailer at the front: the Twindexx Vario looks like a multiple unit but is actually a locomotive-hauled push-pull set. This is exactly how you tell it apart.

DT4 (Hamburg U-Bahn)

DT4

The DT4 is the four-part stainless-steel train of the Hamburg U-Bahn. How to identify it and how to reliably tell it apart from the DT5 and from S-Bahn vehicles.

DT5 (Hamburg U-Bahn)

DT5

The DT5 is the current U-Bahn generation in Hamburg: three-part and walk-through along its entire length. That's exactly what separates it from the older DT4.

NGT12 (Leipzig)

NGT12

The NGT12 is the long low-floor articulated tram of the Leipziger Verkehrsbetriebe. Counting segments is all it takes – then the type is unmistakable within Leipzig's fleet.

NGT12G

NGT 12 G

The NGT12G is a twelve-axle low-floor articulated railcar and one of the longer members of its family. The axle count in the name is the key to identifying it.

NGT6D / MGT6D

NGT6D

NGT6D and MGT6D are six-axle low-floor articulated railcars of the first generation. The axle count in the name is also the quickest identification feature in the field.

NGT8 (Leipzig)

NGT8

The NGT8 is the eight-axle low-floor articulated railcar of the Leipzig network. Because Leipzig runs its own gauge, the vehicle stays tied to this one city.

NGT8D

NGT 8 D

The NGT8D is an eight-axle low-floor articulated railcar from the first German low-floor generation. The type designation tells you more than any spec sheet.

NGT8DD (Dresden)

NGT8DD

The NGT8DD is an eight-axle low-floor tram for the Dresden network. The code DD marks the type family that's tailored to this one network.

NGT8G

NGT 8 G

The NGT8G is an eight-axle low-floor articulated tram. Its type name is a shorthand description – once you can read it, you can identify the vehicle in seconds.

S-Bahn Berlin Class 480

BR 480

Class 480 runs as a two-car quarter train in the Berlin DC network. Here's how to identify it and reliably tell it apart from 481, 483 and 485.

S-Bahn Berlin Class 481 / 482

BR 481

Class 481 with its partner car 482 is the Berlin S-Bahn's defining class. Here's how to identify it from the car numbers rather than the silhouette.

S-Bahn Berlin Class 483 / 484

BR 483

Classes 483 and 484 are the newest generation of the Berlin S-Bahn: the 483 as a two-car unit, the 484 as a four-car unit with a walk-through gangway. Here's how to tell them apart with confidence.

S-Bahn Berlin Class 485

BR 485

The Class 485 with its 885 trailer car dates from the Reichsbahn era and carries the nickname Coke Can. Here's how to recognise it and place it within the Berlin network.

S-Bahn Hamburg Class 471

BR 471

Class 471 shaped the look of the Hamburg S-Bahn for decades. Here's how to identify this DC multiple unit and tell it apart from the neighbouring Classes 470 and 472.

S-Bahn Hamburg Class 472 / 473

BR 472

Classes 472 and 473 together form a three-car Hamburg S-Bahn unit. Here's how to identify it and tell it apart from the newer Classes 474 and 490.

S-Bahn Hamburg Class 474 / 874

BR 474

Class 474 with trailer car 874 is a mainstay of the Hamburg S-Bahn – and the only class there where some units carry a pantograph.

S-Bahn Hamburg Class 490

BR 490

Class 490 is the newest vehicle generation of the Hamburg S-Bahn. Here's how to recognise it by front end, car count and number – and tell it apart from the 474.

Saarbahn Class 0450 (Bombardier Flexity Link)

Flexity Link

The Saarbahn's Bombardier Flexity Link is tram and railway vehicle at once. As Class 0450 it carries a genuine railway vehicle number – here's how to recognise it.

Siemens Mireo Plus B

Mireo Plus B

The Mireo Plus B is the battery variant of Siemens' Mireo platform: a pantograph plus a battery, so lines without continuous overhead wire can be worked too.

Solaris Tramino (Leipzig)

Tramino

The Solaris Tramino is a modern low-floor tram running on the Leipzig network. It marks the step up from the first generation of low-floor trams to a fully flat vehicle floor.

Stadler FLIRT

FLIRT

The FLIRT is Stadler's most widespread regional multiple unit in Germany. Class 427, 428 or 429 – the number tells you straight away how many cars the train has.

Stadler KISS (Class 445 / 446)

KISS

The KISS is Stadler's double-deck multiple unit. It shares the German class numbers 445 and 446 with a rival design – it's the construction that separates the two, not the number.

Tatra KT4D

KT4D

The Tatra KT4D is the six-axle short articulated tram built in Czechoslovakia that shaped the look of many East German tram networks for decades.

Tatra KT4DM

KT4D-M

The Tatra KT4DM isn't a new vehicle but a modernised KT4D. The letter M stands for a rebuild programme whose scope varies from operator to operator.

Tatra KT4DMC

KT4D-MC

With the Tatra KT4DMC, the difference lies not in the shape but in the traction control. The C stands for the chopper – a feature you mainly hear.

Tatra KTNF6

KTNF6

The Tatra KTNF6 is a rebuilt short articulated tram: a lowered low-floor section was inserted between the two car bodies. It still has six axles.

Tatra KTNF8

KTNF8

The Tatra KTNF8 is the eight-axle version of the low-floor rebuilds from the KT4D family – longer than the KTNF6 and quickest to recognise by its axle count.

Tatra T3D

T3D

The Tatra T3D is the version of the Tatra T3 delivered to German operators – a four-axle single car with a wider body than the widespread T4D.

Tatra T4D

T4D

The Tatra T4D is the four-axle single car built in Prague and the narrow version of the Tatra T3 – for decades the backbone of many East German networks.

Tatra T6A2

T6A2

The Tatra T6A2 is the last generation of four-axle Tatra trams for German operators – recognisable by its angular body with rectangular windows.

TW 2000

TW 2000

The TW 2000 is Hanover's silver light rail car: unpainted aluminium body, strikingly round front. And the car number tells you the type straight away.

TW 3000

TW 3000

The TW 3000 is Hannover's newest generation of Stadtbahn (light rail) cars. It continues the design line of the Silberpfeil – what really sets it apart is its number block.

TW 6000

TW 6000

The TW 6000 is Hanover's first generation of Stadtbahn cars: angular, high-floor, number block from 6001. It shaped the network before the silver TW 2000 arrived.

Class 1622 (Alstom Coradia LINT 54)

BR 1622

The Class 1622 is a two-car diesel railcar from Alstom's Coradia LINT family. Its four-digit number and type code 95 tell you a lot about the vehicle.

Class 301

BR 301

Class 301 is a diesel-powered powered vehicle with UIC type code 95. This page shows what can genuinely be derived from the number and the type.

Class 302

BR 302

Class 302 is a diesel-powered powered vehicle with type code 95. This page shows how to identify it in the field and separate it from its neighbours in the number block.

Class 303

BR 303

Class 303 is one of the rarely documented German diesel-powered vehicles. This page shows how to reliably identify it via number, roof and type.

Class 605 (ICE TD)

ICE TD

The ICE TD was the only ICE with a diesel engine: four-part tilting trains that looked like an ICE T but carried radiators instead of a pantograph on the roof.

Class 615 (Bombardier Itino)

Itino

The Itino is one of the rarest diesel railcars in German regional services. As Class 615 it falls between the big families LINT, Talent and Desiro.

Class 620 (Alstom Coradia LINT 81)

LINT 81

The Class 620 is the three-car Coradia LINT 81 – the longest member of the LINT family, and already identifiable by its number of car sections.

Class 622 (Alstom Coradia LINT 54)

LINT 54

The LINT 54 of Class 622 is the longer of the two-part LINT variants – the one case where counting carriages alone isn't enough to identify it.

Class 623 (Alstom Coradia LINT 41)

LINT 41

Class 623 is a two-part Coradia LINT 41 – the same build as the older 648, but its own class with its own number range.

Class 624 (VT 23 / 24)

VT 24

Class 624 came out of the VT 23/24 programme of the 1960s and was the forerunner of the 614 – a classic of diesel-powered local services.

Class 626 (NE 81)

NE 81

The NE 81 was the standard railcar of Germany's non-federal railways: a boxy diesel railcar with matching driving trailers and non-driving trailers, now listed as Class 626.

Class 628 / 629

BR 628

Class 628 is the classic two-part DB diesel railcar for regional services. The 629 is its twin-engined sister. Here's how to tell them apart in the field.

Class 633 (PESA Link)

PESA Link

Class 633 is the three-part PESA Link in German diesel-powered local services. Here's how to recognise it by car count, front-end shape and roof – and tell it apart from the LINT family.

Class 640 (Alstom Coradia LINT 27)

LINT 27

The Class 640 is the single-car Coradia LINT 27 – the shortest member of the LINT family. Here's how to recognise it and tell it apart from its longer sisters.

Class 641 (Alstom Coradia A TER)

Coradia A TER

The Class 641 is a single-car diesel railcar from the French Coradia A TER family. Here's how to recognise it and tell it apart from the LINT and the Regio-Shuttle.

Class 642 (Siemens Desiro Classic)

Desiro Classic

The Class 642 is the Siemens Desiro Classic: two-car, low-floor, with a Jacobs bogie in the middle. Here's how to recognise it reliably and tell it apart cleanly.

Class 643 (Bombardier Talent)

Talent

The Class 643 is the three-car Bombardier Talent in diesel form. Here's how to recognise it by front end, articulation and roof – and tell it apart from the 644.

Class 643.2 (Bombardier Talent)

Talent 643.2

The Class 643.2 is a later design variant of the three-car diesel Talent. This page explains the sub-class numbering system and how to identify it in the field.

Class 644 (Bombardier Talent)

Talent 644

Class 644 is the three-part Bombardier Talent with diesel-electric transmission. Visually almost identical to the 643 – the vehicle number is what settles it.

Class 646 (Stadler GTW 2/6)

GTW 2/6

The GTW 2/6 of Class 646 is unmistakable: a narrow drive module sits between the two car body sections. Here's how to identify it reliably in the field.

Class 648 (Alstom Coradia LINT 41)

LINT 41

Class 648 is the two-part Coradia LINT 41 – one of Germany's most common diesel railcars. Here's how to identify it reliably and tell it apart from relatives.

Class 650 (Stadler Regio-Shuttle RS1)

Regio-Shuttle

The Regio-Shuttle RS1 of Class 650 is Germany's most distinctive single-part diesel railcar. Here's how to recognise it by its front, windows and roof.

Class 654

BR 654

Class 654 belongs to railcars with their own power generation. This page shows how to place the number and identify the vehicle reliably in the field.

Class 668.2

Akku-LINT

The Class 668.2 is a battery-electric development of the Coradia LINT 41. It looks like a diesel railcar but carries a pantograph – that's how you recognise it.

Class 668.4

Mireo Plus B

The Class 668.4 is the battery variant of the Siemens Mireo. It runs electrically, charges under overhead line and bridges sections with no contact wire from storage.

Class 670

Doppelstock-Schienenbus

The Class 670 is a single-unit double-deck diesel railcar from the 1990s – a tiny series that never found a successor in Germany.

Class 672.9 (Bombardier LVT/S)

LVT/S

The Class 672.9 is a light single railcar from Bautzen that continues the branch-line tradition of the East German lightweight railcars.

Class 689 / 690

BR 689

The designation Class 689 / 690 groups two neighbouring number ranges in the railcar block. Here's how to read the number and place it correctly.

Class 7081

7081

The Reihe 7081 is listed as a diesel railcar. Because reliable details are scarce, this page shows you the route via designation, number and design.

Class 772

Ferkeltaxe

The Class 772 is the Deutsche Reichsbahn's two-axle light railcar – known as the Ferkeltaxe and today found almost only at heritage railways.

Class 795

VT 95

The Class 795 is the VT 95, the Bundesbahn's first-generation Uerdingen railbus: two-axle, extremely light, and today running almost only at heritage railways.

Class 796

VT 98

Class 796 belongs to the second generation of the Uerdinger railbus. It differs from the 798 in its control equipment.

Class 798

VT 98

Class 798 is the best-known Uerdinger railbus: two axles, short, often running as a formation with trailer car 996 and driving trailer 998.

Class 996

VB 98

The Class 996 is the unpowered trailer car of the railbus family – no cab, no engine, but its own class number.

Class 998

VS 98

Class 998 is the driving trailer of the railbus family: it looks like a railcar and has a cab – but no engine.

Class VT 98 (Uerdinger Railbus)

VT 98

The VT 98 is Germany's best-known railbus: two axles, tall build, running with trailers and driving trailers. Today it survives almost only in heritage service – here's how to spot it.

DB Class 610

BR 610

The Class 610 brought tilting technology to German diesel services in 1992. Two car sections, 160 km/h and a nickname that has stuck ever since.

DB Class 611

BR 611

The Class 611 was DB's second attempt at tilting-technology diesel railcars: 50 two-car units, technically demanding and a long-standing problem child.

DB Class 612

BR 612

The RegioSwinger, Class 612, is the most successful German tilting-technology diesel railcar: two cars, 160 km/h and for years the backbone of winding routes.

DB Class 614

BR 614

The Class 614 was the three-car local-service railcar of the 1970s: two motor cars, one intermediate car and a look you recognise instantly.

DB Class VT 11.5

VT 11.5

From 1957, the VT 11.5 was the flagship of the Trans Europ Express: a diesel-hydraulic multiple unit with two power cars, later run as Class 601.

DWA LVT/S

LVT/S

The LVT/S is a two-axle light railcar from Bautzen and runs at DB as Class 672. Short, narrow, economical – and very easy to identify in the field.

Integral S5D95

Integral

The Integral S5D95 is a multi-part diesel articulated railcar with an unmistakable shape. It became known in the Oberland region - here's how to place it.

LHB VT 2E

VT 2E

The VT 2E from Linke-Hofmann-Busch is a two-part diesel articulated railcar for non-federal railways. Here's how to recognise it and tell it apart cleanly.

MAN Railbuses

MAN-Schienenbusse

In the 1950s MAN built light diesel railcars mainly for private railways. Here's how to recognise them and tell them apart from the Uerdingen railbus.

VT 18.16

Class 175

The VT 18.16 was the Deutsche Reichsbahn's express multiple unit: built in Görlitz, capable of 160 km/h, later Class 175. Today it's purely a museum vehicle.

1342 (Generator Coach of neg Niebüll)

Generatorwagen 1342

A coach with no traction of its own, yet it still has an engine: generator coach 1342 supplies carriages with electricity. Here's how to spot it in a train formation.

DBpbzfa 761 / 765 / 766

Doppelstock-Steuerwagen

A cab at the front, but no propulsion: the double-deck driving trailer leads the push-pull set without pulling it. Here's how to recognise and read it correctly.

Class E 32

E 32

The E 32 belongs to the classic electrics with rod drive: three coupled driving axles, one carrying axle each front and rear. Today a museum vehicle.

Class E 44

E 44

The E 44 was the electric locomotive that did without rods and carrying axles: four driven axles in two bogies. Today it's a museum vehicle.

Class E 44 W

E 44 W

The E 44 W is a sub-variant of the classic E 44 electric locomotive. Here's how to identify the base type reliably and work out which variant is in front of you.

Class E 60

E 60

The E 60 was the Reichsbahn's electric shunting and transfer locomotive: three coupled axles, rod drive, short body. Today it's part of a museum collection.

Class E 63

E 63

The E 63 is a three-axle electric shunting locomotive from the Reichsbahn era. Here's how to tell it apart from the E 60 and E 69 – and where to find it today.

Class E 69

E 69

The E 69 is the smallest German main-line electric locomotive family: two axles, short body, branch-line origin. Here's how to recognise it and where to find it today.

Class E 94

E 94

Six axles, rod drive, two long bonnets and a cab in the middle: the E 94 is the German Crocodile – today part of the heritage and museum fleet.

DR Class E 77

E 77

The E 77 belongs to the Reichsbahn's first generation of electric locomotives: articulated chassis, rod drive, carrying axles on the outside. Today it survives only in museums.

DR Class E 95

E 95

The E 95 was a heavy mountain-line electric locomotive built by the Reichsbahn in a small series: coupling-rod drive, two driving bogies, carrying axles at each end. Today it survives only in museum collections.

Henschel E 1200

Henschel E 1200

The Henschel E 1200 is an electric industrial locomotive built in Kassel. Here's how to read the type code and reliably recognise works locomotives in the field.

Class 290

V 90

Class 290 is DB's classic transfer-and-shunting locomotive: four axles, centre cab, diesel-hydraulic. Here's how to recognise it and its sister classes.

Class 291

BR 291

Class 291 belongs to the V 90 family: centre cab, two bonnets, four axles. Why only the vehicle number allows a reliable identification here.

Class 294

BR 294

The 294 is the radio-remote-controlled variant of the V 90: same design, different fitting-out status. Why that matters for safety in shunting areas.

Class 295

BR 295

Class 295 belongs to the V 90 family and works in heavy transfer duty. Here's how to tell it apart from 290, 294 and 296 – and how to photograph it properly.

Class 296

BR 296

Class 296 belongs to the V 90 family and represents its own rebuild status. Here's how to identify it and place it between older stock and new builds.

Class 298 (V 100)

BR 298

Class 298 is a four-axle diesel locomotive from the Deutsche Reichsbahn's V 100 family that is classified as a shunting locomotive in the numbering system. Here's how to identify it.

DB Class 714

BR 714

Class 714 are converted locomotives from the V 100 family that move DB's rescue trains at tunnel sites. A vehicle you see rarely, and mostly standing still.

DB Class V 60 (DB 260/261/360/361/364/365)

V 60

The V 60 is the classic three-axle shunting locomotive of the Bundesbahn – identifiable by coupling rods and a rigid frame. Its many numbers tell the story of its rebuilds.

DB Class V 65

V 65

The V 65 is a rare small series of the Bundesbahn: four coupled axles in a rigid frame, rod drive, 65 km/h. Here's how to identify it and tell it cleanly apart from others.

DIEMA DVL 150

DIEMA

The DIEMA DVL 150 is a small diesel locomotive from Diepholz of the kind that works on industrial and private sidings. Identifying it comes down chiefly to the builder's plate.

Gmeinder 190 PS / Gmeinder D 35 B

Gmeinder D 35 B

Gmeinder 190 PS and Gmeinder D 35 B name the same vehicle family – once by power output, once by works type. Here's how to make sense of such double names.

Gmeinder 250 PS

Gmeinder 250 PS

Gmeinder 250 PS isn't a class, but a power-output designation for an industrial locomotive from Mosbach. Here's how to identify these vehicles all the same.

Gmeinder D 100 BB

Gmeinder D 100 BB

The Gmeinder D 100 BB is a heavy four-axle industrial locomotive from Mosbach. Bogies instead of rods and the 98 in the number place it unambiguously.

Gmeinder D 25 B

Gmeinder D 25 B

The Gmeinder D 25 B is a two-axle small locomotive from Mosbach. Its type code reveals the drive and wheel arrangement – the rest is on the builder's plate.

Gmeinder D 500 C

Gmeinder D 500 C

The Gmeinder D 500 C is a three-axle industrial locomotive with a rigid frame. Coupling rods and the wheel-arrangement letter make it identifiable from a distance.

Gmeinder D 75 BB

Gmeinder D 75 BB

The Gmeinder D 75 BB is a four-axle industrial locomotive with two bogies. The BB in the name is the key piece of information – here's how to read it correctly.

Gmeinder DE 500 C

Gmeinder DE 500 C

The Gmeinder DE 500 C is the diesel-electric variant of the three-axle works locomotive from Mosbach. The DE in the name is the decisive difference.

Henschel DE 500 C

Henschel DE 500

The Henschel DE 500 C is a diesel-electric shunting locomotive from Kassel. The type name reveals power transmission, power class and axle count – here's how to read it.

Henschel DH 240 B

Henschel DH 240

The Henschel DH 240 B is a two-axle diesel-hydraulic works locomotive with rod drive. Here's how to read the type code and identify the class in the field.

Henschel DH 360

DH 360

The Henschel DH 360 belongs to the shunting-locomotive programme from Kassel. The type name follows a fixed scheme – here's how to read it and what it leaves out.

Henschel DH 440

DH 440

The Henschel DH 440 is a diesel-hydraulic shunting locomotive from Kassel. With industrial locomotives, the builder's plate decides, not the colour – here's how to read it.

Henschel DH 500 Ca

DH 500 Ca

The Henschel DH 500 Ca is a three-axle diesel-hydraulic shunting locomotive. The lower-case letter in the type name marks a version variant – here's how to handle it.

Henschel DHG 1200 BB

DHG 1200 BB

The Henschel DHG 1200 BB is a four-axle shunting locomotive on two bogies. The wheel arrangement in the name tells you more about the duty than any power figure.

Henschel DHG 240 B

DHG 240 B

The Henschel DHG 240 B is a two-axle works locomotive with cardan-shaft drive. A single letter sets it apart from the DH design – here's which one and why.

Henschel DHG 500 C

DHG 500 C

The Henschel DHG 500 C is a three-axle shunting locomotive with cardan-shaft drive. Its type name follows a pattern you'll find at other manufacturers too.

Henschel DHG 700

DHG 700

The Henschel DHG 700 is a diesel-hydraulic shunting locomotive with cardan-shaft drive. The 700 in the name is engine output – and so only half the story.

Henschel DHG 700 C

DHG 700 C

The Henschel DHG 700 C is a three-axle shunting locomotive with cardan-shaft drive. On it, keeper and livery change faster than any other marking on the vehicle.

Jenbacher Werke/Deutz MG 530 C

MG 530 C

The MG 530 C carries two manufacturer names at once. What partnerships and licensed production mean for identification - and how to read such double names correctly.

KHD DG 1500 CCM

DG 1500 CCM

The KHD DG 1500 CCM is a heavy industrial locomotive built in Cologne. The type name and the vehicle number together give you everything you need to place it.

Krauss-Maffei M 1200 BB

KM M 1200 BB

The Krauss-Maffei M 1200 BB is a heavy diesel shunting locomotive on two bogies. The type name reveals power class and wheel arrangement – here's how to read it correctly.

Krauss-Maffei M 400 C

KM M 400 C

The Krauss-Maffei M 400 C is a three-axle diesel shunter with a rigid frame. Coupling rods and a jackshaft are the number-one feature to look for.

Krauss-Maffei M 500 C

KM M 500 C

The Krauss-Maffei M 500 C is a three-axle diesel shunter. With industrial locomotives like this, it's not the livery but the builder's plate that decides the identity.

Krauss-Maffei M 700 C / ML 700 C

KM M 700 C

The Krauss-Maffei M 700 C and ML 700 C are three-axle diesel shunters. Two names for one type family – here's what's behind such variants.

Krauss-Maffei M 800 BB

KM M 800 BB

The Krauss-Maffei M 800 BB is a four-axle diesel shunting locomotive on two bogies. Why the horsepower figure only tells half the story is explained here.

Krauss-Maffei ME 05

KM ME 05

The Krauss-Maffei ME 05 belongs to the small shunting vehicles. If you know the German light-locomotive system, you can confidently classify such locomotives even without a data sheet.

Krauss-Maffei MH 05

KM MH 05

The Krauss-Maffei MH 05 is a small diesel shunting locomotive. Many vehicles of this size now operate under radio remote control – with visible effects on identification.

Krauss-Maffei ML 440 C

KM ML 440 C

The Krauss-Maffei ML 440 C is a three-axle diesel shunting locomotive. If you can read the twelve-digit vehicle number, you can correctly classify such locomotives in seconds.

Krupp 350 PS

Krupp 350 PS Rangierlok

Krupp 350 PS is not a class, but a power rating used as a collective name. How to make sense of such designations and where their limits lie is explained here.

LEW V 100

V 100 Ost

The LEW V 100 from Hennigsdorf still shapes the operations of many private railways today. Rebuilds and re-engining make identifying it both interesting – and tricky.

LHB 1100BB

Linke-Hofmann-Busch 1100BB

The LHB 1100BB is a four-axle diesel shunting locomotive from Salzgitter. One often-overlooked detail on such locos: the design of their coupling and buffing gear.

LHB 530C

Linke-Hofmann-Busch 530C

The LHB 530C is a three-axle diesel shunting locomotive from Salzgitter. Anyone wanting to observe it has to understand how shunting works – and where it turns dangerous.

LHB S 200

LHB S200

The LHB S 200 is a diesel shunting locomotive from the range built by Linke-Hofmann-Busch. For types like this, it's not the looks but the builder's plate that gives you a reliable identification.

LKM Ns 1

Ns 1

The LKM Ns 1 is a small narrow-gauge diesel locomotive built in Babelsberg. With vehicles like this, the first and most important step is working out the track gauge.

LKM Ns 2

Ns 2

The LKM Ns 2 is a narrow-gauge small diesel locomotive from Babelsberg. Its most fascinating feature is power transmission – and you can actually see it on the vehicle.

LKM Ns 3

Ns 3

The LKM Ns 3 is a narrow-gauge small diesel locomotive from Babelsberg. If you can read wheel arrangements, you can place a vehicle like this in seconds.

LKM Ns 4

Ns 4

The LKM Ns 4 is a narrow-gauge small diesel locomotive from Babelsberg. If you want to see it moving, plan around running days – not timetables.

LKM V 10 C

V 10 C

The LKM V 10 C is a three-axle shunting diesel locomotive from Babelsberg. Reliable identification comes down to the type code and the twelve-digit vehicle number.

MaK 1200 D

MaK 1200D

The MaK 1200 D is a four-axle shunting locomotive with rod drive in a rigid frame. Its most striking feature runs openly between the wheels.

MaK 240 B / MaK 240 C

MaK 240 B

MaK 240 B and 240 C share the same power class but differ in their running gear. The letter in the type name tells you how many axles are at work.

MaK 450 C

MaK 450C

The MaK 450 C is a three-axle shunting locomotive in a rigid frame. Its coupling gear and shunting equipment reveal a lot about its work.

MaK 600 D

MaK 600D

The MaK 600 D is a four-axle shunting locomotive in a rigid frame. Its brake equipment explains why shunting service needs its own rules.

MaK 650 C

MaK 650C

The MaK 650 C is a three-axle shunting locomotive with a rigid frame. Many machines in this group have been retrofitted for radio remote control – and it shows.

MaK 650 D

MaK 650D

The MaK 650 D is a four-axle shunting locomotive with a rigid frame. To identify one, read the data panel – not the paint job.

MaK DE 1002

MaK DE1002

The MaK DE 1002 is a diesel-electric shunting locomotive from Kiel's type programme. Here's how to read the type designation and identify the machine in the field.

MaK DE 501 / MaK DE 502

MaK DE 501

MaK DE 501 and DE 502 are small diesel-electric shunting locomotives from Kiel. For these, the builder's plate is the most reliable route to a firm identification.

MaK G 1100 BB

MaK G1100 BB

The MaK G 1100 BB is a diesel-hydraulic shunting and transfer locomotive from Kiel. The twelve-digit vehicle number is the key to identifying it for certain.

MaK G 1202 BB

MaK G1202 BB

The MaK G 1202 BB is a four-axle diesel-hydraulic shunting locomotive. Its coupling and shunting equipment often reveal more about its use than any data table.

MaK G 1203 BB

MaK G1203 BB

The MaK G 1203 BB is a four-axle diesel-hydraulic shunting locomotive. An empty cab doesn't mean nobody's driving on machines like this.

MaK G 1204 BB

MaK G1204 BB

The MaK G 1204 BB is a four-axle diesel-hydraulic shunting locomotive. Its home is sidings, works and port railways – with their own rules for observers.

MaK G 1205 BB

MaK G1205 BB

The MaK G 1205 BB belongs to the 1200 series from Kiel. The final digit of the type number is the key: it separates successive design stages.

MaK G 1300 BB

MaK G1300 BB

The MaK G 1300 BB is a four-axle diesel-hydraulic shunting locomotive. Understand its brake equipment, and you'll understand why shunting areas are so dangerous.

MaK G 320 B

MaK G320 B

The MaK G 320 B is a two-axle light locomotive from Kiel. It sits at the lower end of the type programme – and illustrates the German light-locomotive system particularly well.

MaK G 500 C

MaK G500 C

The MaK G 500 C is a three-axle shunting locomotive from Kiel. The letter C is the key – it describes the running gear and clearly sets the type apart.

MaK G 700 C

MaK G700 C

The MaK G 700 C is a three-axle shunting locomotive from Kiel. With manufacturer types, it always pays to ask about the gauge – it's never a given.

MaK G 761 C / MaK G 763 C

MaK G 761 C

MaK G 761 C and G 763 C are three-axle shunting locomotives of the same power class. The final digit separates the versions – you can hardly tell from outside.

MaK G 765 C

MaK G765C

The MaK G 765 C is a three-axle shunting locomotive from Kiel. Its type key names the build programme and wheel arrangement – the power transmission gives away the design.

O&K MB 170 N

Orenstein & Koppel MB 170 N

The O&K MB 170 N is a small diesel shunting locomotive from Orenstein & Koppel. Counting axles and reading the frame type gets you there faster than any type list.

O&K MB 200 N

Orenstein & Koppel MB 200 N

The O&K MB 200 N is a diesel shunting locomotive from Orenstein & Koppel. The type designation names the design – only the builder's plate names the vehicle.

O&K MB 280 N

Orenstein & Koppel MB 280 N

The O&K MB 280 N is a diesel shunting locomotive from Orenstein & Koppel. Its twelve-digit vehicle number tells you more about how it's used than any livery.

O&K MBB 1200 N

Orenstein & Koppel MBB 1200 N

The O&K MBB 1200 N is a heavy shunting locomotive with two bogies. The BB in its type designation is the most important clue to its design.

O&K MC 14 C

Orenstein & Koppel MC 14 C

The O&K MC 14 C is a diesel shunting locomotive from Orenstein & Koppel. Its coupling, buffers and shunting steps often say more about its use than the type designation.

O&K MC 700

Orenstein & Koppel MC 700

The O&K MC 700 is a diesel shunting locomotive from Orenstein & Koppel. Aerials and receiver boxes reveal whether a machine like this is moved by remote control.

O&K MV 4 a

Orenstein & Koppel MV 4a

The O&K MV 4 a is a small diesel locomotive from Orenstein & Koppel. With this family of vehicles, gauge is the first question to ask – and not always the easiest one.

O&K MV 6 a

Orenstein & Koppel MV 6a

The O&K MV 6 a is a small diesel locomotive from Orenstein & Koppel. Its world is mine, works and light railways – an environment with its own technical rules.

O&K MV 6 b

Orenstein & Koppel MV 6b

The O&K MV 6 b is a small diesel locomotive from Orenstein & Koppel. Its brake equipment reveals what kind of service it could be used for.

O&K MV 9

Orenstein & Koppel MV 9

The O&K MV 9 is a small diesel locomotive from Orenstein & Koppel. Vehicles of this kind are found today mainly with societies, in museums or as monuments.

Schöma CFL-200 DR

Schöma CFL 200 DR

The Schöma CFL-200 DR is a small diesel locomotive from Diepholz. Its type code places the design – the rest is on the works plate.

Schöma CFL-40 DR

Schöma CFL 40 DR

The Schöma CFL-40 DR is a small locomotive built in Diepholz – with no DB class number. Here's how to read the works plate, UIC number and markings correctly.

Schöma CFL250DVR

Schöma CFL 250 DVR

The Schöma CFL250DVR is a diesel shunting locomotive for industrial railways and private sidings. This page shows where such machines work and how to place them safely.

Vossloh G 6

Vossloh G6

The Vossloh G 6 is a modern three-axle diesel shunting loco from Kiel. Three axles in a rigid frame are the feature you'll identify it by first.

WR 360 C 14

WR 360 C14

The WR 360 C 14 is the classic three-axle Wehrmacht shunting locomotive that later became the V 36 and DB Class 236. Its type code reveals almost everything.

Atlas 1604 ZW

Atlas 1604 road-rail excavator

The Atlas 1604 ZW is a road-rail excavator: construction machine on the road, works vehicle on the track. Here's how the technology works and how to recognise it.

Class 701

BR 701

The Class 701 is the classic tower car of the Bundesbahn: a railcar with a liftable work platform for maintaining the overhead line.

DB Class 708.3

BR 708.3

Class 708.3 belongs to DB's overhead line railcars and comes from the Deutsche Reichsbahn's fleet. What the sub-class tells you.

DB Class 711.2

BR 711.2

Class 711.2 belongs to the newer generation of DB overhead line vehicles: work platform, crane and workshop on one self-propelled vehicle.

DB Class 719

BR 719

Class 719 belongs to DB's measuring and survey vehicles. It checks track, overhead line and installations during regular operation – mostly unannounced.

DB Class 720

BR 720

Class 720 belongs to DB's measuring and survey vehicles and mostly runs in formation with the 719. Why runs like this are never announced anywhere.

DB Class 733

BR 733

Class 733 belongs to the engineering vehicles in the 7xx range. This page shows how to identify such vehicles reliably even without a spec sheet.

DB Class Klv 51

Klv 51

The Klv 51 is a heavy trolley of the Deutsche Bundesbahn – a small work vehicle of the permanent way gangs with its own operational history.

Harsco RGH 20

RGH 20

The Harsco RGH 20 grinds the rail running surface back into shape. Here's how to recognise the grinding train, how it works, and how to stay safe while watching.

Kirow KRC 810 / 1200

KRC 810

Kirow railway slewing cranes lift points, bridge parts and derailed vehicles. Here's how to identify a KRC 810 or 1200 and understand its role on the worksite.

Liebherr A 900 C ZW-Li/1031

Road-rail excavator

A road excavator standing on rails: the Liebherr A 900 C ZW-Li/1031 combines rubber tyres with retractable rail gear. Here's how to spot a road-rail vehicle on the track.

Linsinger SF03-FFS plus

Rail milling train

Milling instead of grinding: the Linsinger SF03-FFS plus machines the rail head by cutting, without any sparks. Here's how to spot the milling train and understand its process.

Matisa P95 / P100

Matisa P95

Track renewal trains swap sleepers and rails on the move. Here's how to recognise a Matisa P95 or P100 and understand how a renewal site is organised.

Plasser & Theurer 08-275/4 ZW-Y

08-275/4 ZW-Y

Tamping means restoring track geometry: the Plasser & Theurer 08-275/4 ZW-Y lifts, aligns and compacts the ballast under the sleepers. Here's how to recognise the machine.

Plasser & Theurer 09-4X Dynamic

09-4X Dynamic

Tamping and stabilising in one pass: the 09-4X Dynamic works continuously using the satellite principle. Here's how to recognise the machine on the track.

Plasser & Theurer EM-SAT 120

EM-SAT 120

The EM-SAT 120 measures where the track actually lies – and hands the correction values to the tamping machine. Here's how the survey technique works and how to recognise the vehicle.

Plasser & Theurer MFS 100

MFS 100

Without material logistics, every track worksite grinds to a halt: the MFS 100 moves ballast and spoil along conveyor belts through the whole work train. Here's how to recognise the units.

Plasser & Theurer RM 95-800 W / RM 80-UHR

RM 95-800 W

Ballast cleaning means: dig out the ballast, screen it, put clean ballast back. Here's how the machines of the RM family work and how to recognise them in a work train formation.

Plasser & Theurer SSP 110 SW

SSP 110 SW

The ballast plough puts the bed into shape: spreading, profiling, sweeping sleepers clear. Here's how the SSP 110 SW works and how to recognise it in the track.

Plasser & Theurer SUM-Q 3

SUM-Q 3

Reconstruction machines renew track in a continuous pass rather than in individual steps. Here's how the sleeper and rail change works and how to recognise the SUM-Q 3 on a worksite.

RM 95-800 W

RM 95-800 W ballast cleaning machine

The RM 95-800 W is a ballast cleaning machine: it digs out the ballast under the track, screens it and puts it back cleaned. Here's how to place it.

Robel GKW 315

Gleiskraftwagen GKW 315

The Robel GKW 315 is a track motor car: load deck, loading crane, crew cab. Here's how to recognise it and place it correctly among departmental vehicles.