ESU 31173 H0 electric locomotive E03 003, DB, Ep.III, DC+AC-Sound

ESU 31173 H0 Electric locomotive E03 003, DB, Era III - Icon of the German Federal Railroad

The ESU 31173 E03 003 electric locomotive brings the historic pioneering achievement of the German Federal Railroad (DB) from Era III to your model railroad layout as a detailed model. This impressive electric locomotive in H0 scale represents the elegant pre-series version of the later class 103 and is one of the legendary locomotives of high-speed traffic. With a length over buffers (LLP) of 224.1 mm and powerful digital and sound equipment including true-to-original sounds and pantographs that can be raised and lowered, this locomotive offers a realistic driving experience for collectors and model railroaders.

The prototype: The E03 - An express locomotive for TEE traffic

The E03 pre-series locomotives were developed in 1965 by the German Federal Railroad (DB) in cooperation with the manufacturers Henschel and Krauss-Maffei. DB designed this locomotive to haul the light and fast TEE (Trans Europ Express) trains on lowland routes. Even during test runs, the E03 impressed with its ability to pull passenger trains at 200 km/h, a top speed that set new standards at the time. The aerodynamically shaped front and the striking TEE livery shaped the appearance of modern express trains in Germany for decades. In 1969, the performance profile of the series locomotives was adapted to be able to transport heavier trains of up to 800 tons at 160 km/h, which finally made the E03 the workhorse of the German Federal Railways.

ESU - innovation and quality for the model railroad world

ESU is known for precisely manufactured models that combine historical authenticity with modern technology. The E03 003 impresses with a multitude of details that have been exactly reproduced: From the filigree brake system at wheel level to the separately attached grab rails and bogie panels with real springs - the locomotive sets standards in H0 scale. The multicolored TEE design of Era III and the high-quality workmanship of the metal body and chassis make the locomotive an exclusive collector's item for all fans of historic electric locomotives.

Technical highlights of the ESU 31173 - Modern digital technology and sound

The E03 003 is equipped with a LokSound 5 decoder, which reproduces the original sounds of the 103.1 series. Two high-quality loudspeakers produce an impressive sound quality that realistically brings out the characteristic running noise, braking noises and the sensor-controlled squealing in curves. In addition, two pantographs that can be raised and lowered digitally ensure detailed operation. For reliable operation, the model is equipped with a PowerPack storage capacitor, which ensures an uninterrupted power supply and enables a smooth ride even on demanding routes.

The powerful five-pole ESU motor with two balanced flywheels drives the locomotive on three axles via a cardan/worm system and ensures a stable and smooth ride. Four traction tires ensure excellent grip and reliable power transmission, which is particularly optimized for use in model railway operation.

Compatibility for DC and AC systems

The ESU 31173 is suitable for direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) systems. The locomotive is equipped with universal electronics and a plug-in slider that allows easy switching between two-wire and center conductor operation. Thanks to a minimum radius of 360 mm, the locomotive can also be used in tight curves without any problems and therefore offers flexibility for a wide variety of system layouts.

Authentic color scheme and design

The model is painted in the classic TEE livery of the pre-series locomotives, which consists of an elegant combination of purple and beige. This striking color scheme shaped the image of the E03 and made it a symbol of German express transport. The design is complemented by details such as separately applied grab irons, authentic bogie covers and a detailed reproduction of the braking systems at wheel level. The unmistakable spherical shape of the ends and the elegantly shaped locomotive body have been implemented with the utmost precision.

High-quality workmanship for lasting quality

The E03 003 is characterized by stable and durable workmanship. The body and chassis are made of metal, and spring-loaded buffers ensure a high level of resistance. The coupler is fitted in the standard slot, which allows realistic and problem-free use with other wagons. These quality features make the model ideal for long-term operation on the model railway layout.

Lighting and additional effects

The ESU 31173 has numerous lighting options that make the driving experience realistic. The light changes in white/red depending on the direction of travel and the train-side headlights can be switched off. Shunting lighting, driver's cab, driver's desk and engine room lighting can also be switched separately. A special highlight is the brake spark effect, which is activated when braking sharply and makes operation on the model railway layout even more realistic.

Conclusion: The ESU 31173 electric locomotive E03 003 - An exclusive model for railroad enthusiasts

The ESU 31173 E03 003 electric locomotive is an absolute highlight for discerning model railroaders and collectors. With its detailed reproduction, extensive digital equipment and authentic color scheme, this locomotive brings the history of German Federal Railroad express service to the model railroad layout. The high quality of workmanship, coupled with the latest technology and realistic soundscape, makes the E03 003 an indispensable collector's item and an enrichment for every H0 layout.

Features:

• Gauge: H0
• Era: III
• Railroad company: German Federal Railroad (DB)
• Clearance: 224.1 mm
• Minimum radius: 360 mm
• Body and chassis made of metal
• Multi-part bogie covers with real springs and numerous attached details
• Separately applied brake system with brake shoes at wheel level
• Separately attached grab irons
• Powerful five-pole ESU motor with two flywheels
• Drive via cardan/worm drive on three axles, four traction tires
• LokSound 5 decoder for DCC, Motorola®, M4 and Selectrix operation
• RailComPlus® and mfx® compatible
• PowerPack storage capacitor for uninterruptible power supply
• Two high-quality loudspeakers for the best sound enjoyment
• Universal electronics with plug-in slider for two-wire and center conductor operation
• Two roof pantographs that can be raised and lowered digitally
• Digitized original sounds of the BR 103.1
• Direction of travel-dependent light change white/red, switchable headlights
• Shunting, driver's cab, driver's desk and engine room lighting
• Brake sparks for sharp braking

Specs:

• Gauge: H0
• Rail Company: DB
• Era: III
• Color: Multi-Colored
• Electricity System: 2L-DC and 3L-AC
• Digital: Yes
• sound: Yes
• News: 2024
• Type: Electric loco

Further links:

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CAUTION: Not suitable for children under 3 years. Danger of swallowing! Age recommendation from 14 years.