NEW Fleischmann 7560099 N E-Lok Rh 371 008-3 CD Ep.IV

Fleischmann 7560099 N Electric Locomotive BR 372 008-3 ČSD Ep. IV

Are you looking for a distinctive electric locomotive for your N-gauge model railroad layout that will allow you to authentically recreate cross-border rail traffic between the GDR and Czechoslovakia? The Fleischmann 7560099 Class 372 008-3 electric locomotive of the Czechoslovak State Railways (ČSD) impresses with its characteristic red-and-yellow color scheme, an elaborate roof design, and numerous separately attached details.

As an Era IV model, this special dual-system electric locomotive commemorates an important phase in European railway history. The 372 series was developed to facilitate the increasing passenger and freight traffic on the major Berlin–Dresden–Prague railway line. With its unmistakable design and finely detailed model construction, the Fleischmann BR 372 008-3 is an interesting addition for enthusiasts of historic electric locomotives.

Fleischmann BR 372 008-3 – the legendary “Knödelpresse” of the ČSD

In the 1980s, international rail traffic between the German Democratic Republic and Czechoslovakia increased steadily. Particularly on the important Berlin–Dresden–Prague route, there was a growing need for powerful electric locomotives for cross-border service.

The different traction power systems posed a particular challenge. While the Deutsche Reichsbahn operated its electrified lines with 15 kV alternating current at 16⅔ Hz, the Czechoslovak State Railways used 3 kV direct current on the relevant routes.

These differing power systems made it necessary to change locomotives during international train service. To simplify operational procedures and shorten travel and transport times, both railway administrations decided to jointly procure modern dual-system electric locomotives.

The new locomotives were to be capable of operating on both the German AC system and the Czechoslovak DC system. This resulted in a family of locomotives specifically tailored to the requirements of international rail traffic.

Škoda Electric Locomotives for Service Between Berlin and Prague

Originally, the locomotive manufacturer LEW Hennigsdorf in the GDR was also considered for the development of the new locomotives. However, since its production capacities were already fully utilized at that time, the contract was awarded to the Czechoslovak manufacturer Škoda.

Škoda already had extensive experience in building high-performance electric locomotives. Among other things, the proven ČSD ES 499.1 and ES 499.2 series served as the technical basis.

A particular challenge was adapting the locomotives to the German 15 kV, 16⅔ Hz alternating current system. For the manufacturer, this represented a significant advancement in existing rolling stock technology.

The joint procurement contract included a total of 15 Class 372 electric locomotives for ČSD and 20 Class 230 locomotives for the Deutsche Reichsbahn.

The new locomotives were designed as versatile vehicles for both passenger and freight service. With their dual-system capability, they enabled more flexible cross-border operation between the two railway networks.

“Knödelpresse” and “Bastard”—a Locomotive with Cult Status

The Class 372 electric locomotives and their German sister locomotives of the Class 230 earned distinctive nicknames over the course of their service history.

In Germany, these distinctive locomotives were affectionately known as the “Knödelpresse.” In the Czech Republic, however, the nickname “Bastard” caught on.

Both names remain well-known among railroad enthusiasts to this day and underscore the special significance of this extraordinary family of locomotives.

The four-axle universal locomotives achieved an hourly output of 3,260 kW and a top speed of 120 km/h in their prototype form.

This made them suitable for both international passenger trains and various freight train operations. Especially on the route between Dresden and Prague, these electric locomotives were a defining feature of rail traffic for many years.

Highly recognizable red-and-yellow ČSD livery

The Fleischmann 7560099 depicts electric locomotive 372 008-3 in the distinctive red-and-yellow color scheme of the Czechoslovak State Railways.

The bold red base color and the contrasting yellow sections give the locomotive an unmistakable appearance. The characteristic front design and the striking locomotive body, in particular, make this series instantly recognizable.

The model captures the distinctive design of the ČSD locomotive on a 1:160 scale and is ideal for model railroads focusing on Eastern European rail transport from Era IV.

Whether leading an international express train, passing through a border station, or operating in freight service—the eye-catching color scheme makes for an interesting focal point on your N-gauge model railroad layout.

Finely detailed model with elaborate roof design

A special highlight of the Fleischmann BR 372 008-3 is its finely detailed design, featuring numerous separately applied snap-on parts.

These complement the electric locomotive’s characteristic design and underscore the prototypical overall impression.

Particularly striking is the elaborate roof design with authentically rendered pantographs. Especially on a dual-system locomotive, the extensive electrical roof equipment is one of the prototype’s most distinctive features.

Combined with the special paint scheme and the characteristic design, this creates an attractive model for collectors and active N-gauge model railroaders.

Five-pole motor with four driven axles

The Fleischmann 7560099 is designed for analog DC operation and features a five-pole motor.

All four axles of the electric locomotive are powered. Two traction tires enhance traction and provide excellent performance for hauling long passenger and freight trains.

This makes the BR 372 008-3 ideal for a variety of train operations on historic N-gauge model railroad layouts.

The locomotive also features a three-light headlight that changes direction depending on the direction of travel, along with two red tail lights. The LED lighting complements the electric locomotive’s distinctive appearance while in motion.

Next18 Digital Interface for Later Retrofitting

The Fleischmann BR 372 008-3 features an electrical Next18 digital interface. This allows the model to be retrofitted with a suitable digital decoder if desired.

Item number 7560099 refers to the analog DC version without a factory-installed sound decoder. Those who prefer the locomotive with digital sound equipment can find the corresponding variant under Fleischmann item number 7570099.

For coupling with compatible N-gauge cars, the electric locomotive features a NEM 355 coupling shaft with close-coupling kinematics.

With a length over buffers of 105 mm and a minimum operating radius of 192 mm, the model is also suitable for more compact N-gauge model railroad layouts.

Ideal locomotive for international passenger and freight trains of Era IV

The Fleischmann 7560099 is particularly well-suited for model railroaders who wish to authentically depict cross-border rail traffic between the GDR and Czechoslovakia.

The BR 372 008-3 pairs particularly well with contemporary express train cars from the ČSD and the Deutsche Reichsbahn. This creates interesting international passenger trains for the Berlin–Dresden–Prague route.

This versatile electric locomotive also offers numerous applications in freight service. When combined with covered freight cars, open cars, tank cars, or mixed freight train formations, it allows you to recreate a wide variety of transport scenarios.

A particularly appealing addition is the Fleischmann BR 372 001-8, which, as the prototype, embodies the beginning of this fascinating locomotive development. Together, they allow you to depict different stages of development of the ČSD dual-system locomotives on your own layout.

A special model for enthusiasts of the Czechoslovak State Railways

For collectors of historic electric locomotives, the Fleischmann BR 372 008-3 holds special appeal. Its striking red-and-yellow color scheme, characteristic Škoda design, and close connection to the Deutsche Reichsbahn make it an interesting vehicle from Era IV.

For model railroading enthusiasts focused on international rail traffic of the 1980s and early 1990s, the locomotive also offers numerous possibilities for creating realistic operating scenes.

The finely crafted details, authentic pantographs, and modern Next18 digital interface combine historic railroad atmosphere with contemporary model features.

Bring the legendary “Knödelpresse” to your N-gauge model railroad layout! Choose the Fleischmann 7560099 BR 372 008-3 from ČSD and enrich your collection with a distinctive dual-system electric locomotive from Era IV that represents an exciting chapter in international rail transport.

Features:

• Gauge: N
• Era: IV
• Railroad Company: ČSD – Czechoslovak State Railways
• Locomotive: BR 372 008-3
• Dual-system electric locomotive by Škoda
• Characteristic red-and-yellow ČSD paint scheme
• Finely detailed design with separately attached snap-on parts
• Elaborate roof design with authentic pantographs
• Power system: DC analog
• Five-pole motor
• 4 powered axles
• 2 traction tires
• Direction-dependent three-light headlight and 2 red tail lights with LEDs
• Next18 digital interface
• NEM 355 coupler housing with close-coupling mechanism
• Minimum curve radius: 192 mm
• Length over buffers: 105 mm

Specs:

• Gauge: N
• Rail Company: CD
• Era: IV
• Color: Red
• Electricity System: DC
• Analogue / Digital: Analogue
• sound: No
• News: 2027
• Type: Electric loco

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