The versatile class 101 has finally been released as a PIKO Expert model. In this article you can read the most important information about the prototype and the model.
Information about the prototype
DB Fernverkehr's class 101 electric locomotives are high-performance universal locomotives with three-phase AC drive. They were procured in the mid-1990s to replace the Class 103 locomotives, which were about 25 years old at the time. Adtranz received the order for 145 locomotives. The ALP-46 and ALP-45DP electric locomotives built for the US-based New Jersey Transit have bogies similar to the Class 101.
The first locomotive, 101 001, entered service in the summer of 1996. Like the first three locomotives of this class, it was still in the orient red color scheme. All further locomotives were already delivered in traffic red. In the meantime, ABB Henschel had merged with AEG Schienenfahrzeuge to form Adtranz, so that the locomotive bodies were now built partly in Hennigsdorf and partly in Kassel. The locomotive bodies welded in Hennigsdorf were transported on flatbed trailers over the autobahn to Kassel, where they were placed on the bogies manufactured in Breslau and equipped ready for operation. A total of 145 locomotives were procured, which according to the books belong to the Hamburg-Eidelstedt depot, where medium-scale maintenance takes place.
The machines are to be retired from intercity service by 2025. A decision has yet to be made as to whether individual locomotives will continue to be used as cleaning or towing locomotives.
Information about the model
Announced as a novelty in 2021, the long-awaited model was delivered in June 2022. The versatile locomotive inspires as a PIKO Expert model. The modern design of the locomotive has been reproduced exactly. The locomotive is painted in prototypical traffic red, including the "DB cookie". The single-arm pantographs have been reproduced with extreme filigree. Sharply engraved bogies round off the visual appearance. Brake hoses and sun visors that can be retrofitted are included.
A powerful 5-pole motor ensures a free ride. Equipped with two flywheel masses, the PIKO BR 101 stands out with extremely smooth running. Two diagonally mounted traction tires provide traction when moving forward. A technical highlight is the digitally switchable cab and driver's cab lighting. The light changes in red/white depending on the direction of travel, of course using the latest LED technology. In digital operation, these functions can be switched separately. This is controlled by a PluX 22 decoder. The simple digitization is already prepared by means of a plug-in interface.
Specifications
| Scale | H0 |
| Railroad company | DB AG |
| Epoch | VI |
| System: | DC and AC available |
| Digital-Decoder | depending on version |
| Interface | PluX22 |
| Motor | 5-pol. Motor |
| Flywheel | Yes |
| Traction tires | 2 |
| Length over buffer | 219 mm |
| Mindestradius: | 358 mm |
| Coupler | NEM 362 with KK-Kinematik |
| Light | 3-taillights, direction-dependent / 2-taillights, direction-dependent |
Photos of the PIKO class 101
Video presentation of the 101 series
Buy PIKO Class 101 at MSL
At Modellbahnshop-Lippe you will be notified immediately as soon as your model arrives. This service is free of charge and without obligation. After notification you have 5 days to retrieve your order.
The 101 series from PIKO can be delivered directly to your home at MSL at a special price.
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