DB locomotive classification

Originally, both Deutsche Bundesbahn and Deutsche Reichsbahn continued the classification system of the Deutsche Reichsbahn (DRG) – see also a short overview of the numbering system of the German railways. When UIC introduced a new classification system that could be processed by the computers of the late 1960s, DB did a major modification of their system, effective 1 January 1968. This system is still in use and now includes the engines of the former GDR railways as well. (See List of Deutsche Bahn AG locomotives and railbuses for a current list.)

Since January 1, 1968, all vehicles are denoted by a seven-digit vehicle number. It consists of a three-digit class number, a three-digit serial number and a check digit separated by a dash. The check digit is calculated by multiplying the first six digits by 1 and 2 alternately, the difference of the result to the next multitude of ten is the check digit. The check digit is used to perform a cross-check to ensure the correct number, for example in computer systems.

Series that contain more than 1,000 vehicles are assigned ascending numbers.

The first number denotes the type of the vehicle, replacing the DRG convention of using letters to differentiate between the vehicle types.

The letters of the DRG schema are not officially used any more since the introduction of computer numbers, however they can often be found in informal writing and conversation. So if somebody is talking of an E110, he or she is likely to mean an E10 / 110, if a V216 is mentioned, it is likely that the author means the V160 / 216.

Tenders are not assigned a number of their own, as they are regarded a part of the vehicle they are coupled to. Cab cars and intermediate cars of multiple units receive the numbers 8 if they belong to an EMU, 9 if they belong to a DMU. If another powered car or engine is present in the multiple unit, its serial number usually is offset by 500, but it is still assigned into the original class.

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