Traduction automatique. Texte original en: EN - afficher l'original The DR series V 75 diesel locomotives are primarily known for their role in replacing the Class 80 locomotives at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof for shunting operations. Originating from Czechoslovakia, these locomotives are a product of necessity, crafted to fill a gap in German diesel locomotive production.

A total of 20 units are imported, closely resembling the Czechoslovakian class T 435.0, also known today as Class 720, and the Soviet ChME2.

Design and performance features

The series V 75 boasts a bridge frame and an end driver’s cab, complete with external circulation. Fitted with low-speed engines rated at 750 hp (547 kW), these locomotives utilize an electrical power transmission system to their four axles. The maximum speed of the series is 60 km/h, and they are equipped with an air brake system featuring a single-release Knorr control valve. The driver’s cab, fully equipped in the intended main direction of travel, and an auxiliary driving console for reverse operation, reflect the locomotive’s functional design.

Operational roles and deployment

These diesel locomotives find their home in the railway stations of Leipzig, including the Hauptbahnhof, Magdeburg-Thüringer Bahnhof, and Dredener Bahnhof, with bases at the Leipzig Hbf West and Leipzig West depots.

In addition to shunting, the DR series V 75 is deployed in various roles, including weed control, construction trains, and passenger services during warmer seasons. They serve as replacements for Class 110 and Class 172 locomotives on multiple routes originating from Leipzig. Notable use includes service on the “blueberry train” to Pretzsch and as working locomotives in front of ballast trains.

After their retirement around 1980, a significant number of these locomotives are scrapped. However, four units are preserved, thanks to their acquisition by the Karsdorf cement plant's work railway. The Karsdorfer Eisenbahngesellschaft (KEG) acquires these and similar vehicles from the Czech Republic but goes into insolvency in 2004 and subsequently are taken over by Arco Transportation GmbH, incorporating these vehicles into their fleet.

Notably, the V 75 018 undergoes refurbishment by Railsystems RP GmbH, re-emerging as Class 107 018 with a Deutsche Reichsbahn color scheme. / Sources: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/DR-Baureihe_V_75