ESU 31174 H0 electric locomotive 103 178 TEE, DB, Ep.IV, DC+AC-Sound

ESU 31174 H0 Electric locomotive 103 178 TEE, DB, Era IV - The express train legend for your model railway layout

The ESU 31174 electric locomotive 103 178 brings the legendary express train locomotive of the German Federal Railroad (DB) to the world of model railroading. This H0 model of era IV shows the class 103 in its classic TEE livery and impresses with authentic details, true-to-original sounds and extensive digital functions. With its length over buffers (LüP) of 224.1 mm and the ability to run on both DC and AC systems, the locomotive is a highlight for discerning model railroaders.

Historical role model: The BR 103 - powerhouse and style icon

The E03, which later became known as the BR 103, was created in the 1960s when the Deutsche Bundesbahn (DB) needed a locomotive for high-speed services with the Trans Europ Express (TEE) trains. The pre-series locomotives E03 001-004 were presented in 1965 and reached an impressive 200 km/h in tests. From 1970, the series version BR 103.1 was developed with increased power and a higher train weight of up to 800 t in order to meet the requirements of TEE and later IC traffic. The spherical front end and the red-beige design made the BR 103 an iconic sight in German express traffic, which lasted until the early 2000s.

ESU - precision and innovation in the world of model railroading

The ESU 31174 is an excellent example of ESU's demand for quality and attention to detail. The model consists of a robust metal body and chassis, supplemented by detailed bogie covers with real springs and attached brake systems. This locomotive impresses with its precise reproduction of the striking details that made the BR 103 famous. The TEE paintwork and the filigree finish make the model a collector's item for fans of German railroad history.

Technical highlights of the ESU 31174 - Digital control and realistic sound

Equipped with a LokSound 5 decoder, the 103 178 offers an extensive range of sound effects that reproduce the realistic sounds of a 103.1, from driving noises to brake squeal and sensor-controlled curve sound. Two high-quality loudspeakers provide an impressive soundscape that turns every ride into an experience. The two pantographs can be raised and lowered digitally and enable a realistic simulation of driving operation.

A PowerPack storage capacitor ensures an uninterrupted power supply and guarantees smooth operation even on complex track sections. The powerful five-pole ESU motor with two flywheel masses, together with the cardan/worm drive on three axles and four traction tires, ensures stable power transmission and excellent driving characteristics on all H0 layouts.

Compatibility for direct current and alternating current systems

The ESU 31174 locomotive is equipped with universal electronics and a plug-in slider that enables quick switching between direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) operation. This makes it considerably easier to use on different model railroad systems. With a minimum radius of 360 mm, the locomotive is ideal for flexible and demanding layout designs.

Authentic color scheme and design

The TEE livery in purple and beige emphasizes the iconic appearance of the BR 103 from Era IV. This striking color scheme made the locomotive the DB's flagship in express train service. The model shows this historic paintwork in a detailed replica and impresses with separately attached grab rails, finely etched details and an authentic brake system that perfectly complement the design.

High-quality workmanship for long-lasting quality

The 103 178 is made of robust metal and offers a high level of durability with spring-loaded buffers, a coupler guided in the standard shaft and a stable design. This premium workmanship makes the locomotive perfectly suited for long-term operation on the model railway layout and ensures that the model continues to run reliably even after many hours of operation.

Lighting and additional effects

The ESU 31174 offers a variety of lighting effects that make operation particularly realistic. The light changes in white/red depending on the direction of travel, and the train-side head signal can be switched off. Shunting lighting, cab, driver's desk and engine room lighting can also be controlled digitally. A special highlight is the brake spark effect, which is activated when the brakes are applied sharply and increases the authenticity of driving on the layout.

Conclusion: The ESU 31174 electric locomotive 103 178 - A masterpiece for model railroaders and collectors

The ESU 31174 electric locomotive 103 178 TEE combines technical sophistication and historical authenticity, making it a must-have for discerning model railroaders and collectors. With a precise reproduction of the striking details of the class 103, an impressive soundscape and a wide range of digital functions, this model brings a piece of German railroad history to the model railway layout. The high-quality workmanship and extensive technical features make the locomotive an indispensable highlight for any H0 layout.

Features:

• Gauge: H0
• Era: IV
• Railroad company: German Federal Railroad (DB)
• Length: 224.1 mm
• Minimum radius: 360 mm
• Metal body and chassis
• 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: IV
• Color: Multi-Colored
• Electricity System: 2L-DC and 3L-AC
• Digital: Yes
• sound: Yes
• News: 2024
• Type: Electric loco

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