SSW DB E 50

Built by Krupp, AEG, BBC, Henschel, Krauss-Maffei, SSW

Top speed

100 km/h

62 mph

Power output

4,500 kW

6,035 hp

Weight

128 t

282,191 lb

Length

19.49 m

63 ft 11 in

Track gauge

1,435 mm

Standard gauge

Years built

1957–1973

194 units

Overview of the SSW DB E 50

Discover the robust DB E 50, a powerful electric locomotive that has served the German railway network with distinction.

Manufactured by a consortium of leading engineering firms including Krupp, AEG, BBC, Henschel, Krauss-Maffei, and SSW, this versatile locomotive was built between 1957 and 1973, with 194 units produced.

It played a vital role for Deutsche Bahn AG, classified under the DB 150 designation.

With a top speed of 100 km/h and a formidable power output of 4500 kW, the DB E 50 is designed for heavy-duty work.

Its substantial tractive effort of 438 kN, coupled with a weight of 128 tonnes and a length of 19.49 meters, makes it a reliable workhorse for freight and passenger services on standard gauge tracks.

The locomotive operates on a 15 kV AC 16.7 Hz electric system, showcasing its robust engineering and operational capability.

SSW DB E 50 technical specifications

	Value	Imperial / US
Built by	Krupp, AEG, BBC, Henschel, Krauss-Maffei, SSW · 1957–1973194 units
Top speed	100 km/h62 mph	62 mph
Power output	4,500 kW6,035 hp	6,035 hp
Tractive effort	438 kN98,466 lbf	98,466 lbf
Electric systems	15 kV AC 16.7 Hz
Track gauge	1,435 mmStandard gauge4 ft 8½ in	4 ft 8½ in
UIC axle arrangement	Co'Co'
Length	19.49 m63 ft 11 in	63 ft 11 in
Width	3.13 m10 ft 3 in	10 ft 3 in
Height	3.95 m13 ft 0 in	13 ft 0 in
Weight	128 t282,191 lb	282,191 lb