DR BR212 Diesel Locomotive IV

DR BR212 Diesel Locomotive IV

1:120 scale model produced by Piko. This model is ready-to-run straight out of the box and would make a excellent addition to any model railway collection.

Features:

• This model mainly operates in Germany
• This model is decorated in DR company markings
• This model is best suited to 310mm radius curves

Details

The DB Class V 100.20, later renumbered as Class 212, was part of the successful V 100 family of diesel-hydraulic locomotives developed for the Deutsche Bundesbahn in the 1960s. Designed as a medium-power mixed-traffic locomotive, the V 100.20 combined good acceleration with reliable performance, making it well suited to both passenger and freight duties on non-electrified lines.

Built as a longer, heavier variant of the original V 100.10, the V 100.20 featured a B'B' wheel arrangement, hydraulic transmission and a diesel engine capable of around 1,400 kW, giving it the power to haul regional expresses, local passenger trains, and moderate-weight freight. In 1968, under Deutsche Bundesbahn’s modern classification system, the V 100.20 type became Class 212, marking its place in Germany’s post-war diesel roster.

A closely related variant with additional ballast and strengthened running gear was developed for steeper gradients and heavier loads, and was designated Class 213. These locomotives proved particularly useful in hilly terrain and mountainous regions, where their extra adhesion helped handle challenging profiles.

Both Class 212 and 213 locomotives served extensively across West Germany through the 1970s and 1980s, working regional passenger trains, freight services, and shunting duties as electrification advanced. Many found second careers with private operators after withdrawal from main Deutsche Bahn service.