Expert PKP ET21 Electric Locomotive III

Expert PKP ET21 Electric Locomotive III

1:87 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:

• Analogue DC Model
• Best suited to Epoch III Model Railways
• This model mainly operates in Poland
• This model is decorated in PKP company markings
• This model is best suited to 358mm radius curves

Details

The PKP Class ET21 is a classic Polish electric locomotive that became the backbone of heavy freight haulage on the Polskie Koleje Panstwowe (PKP) network. Developed in the early 1950s to meet post-war freight needs under 3 kV DC electrification, the ET21 was the first large-scale electric freight design produced in Poland, with 1,059 locomotives built between 1957 and 1971.

Featuring a Co'Co' wheel arrangement, the ET21 delivered robust tractive effort and reliable performance for heavy trains. Its design combined simplicity with strength — ideal for bulk freight such as coal, ore and industrial goods on main lines and steep gradients. A top speed of 100 km/h suited its primary role in freight operation, while still allowing secondary passenger services where needed.

Throughout its long career, the ET21 operated across the Polish electrified network and became a familiar sight on freight trains from the Baltic ports to the industrial south. Many locomotives received mid-life modernisations and upgrades, extending their operational life into the early 21st century.