Electric Locomotive BR E73 DRG

Info about the original

In 1912 the Königlich Bayerische Staats-Eisenbahnen started to electrify the first tracks. Out of the first 17 electric locomotives, there were two which technically speaking distinguished themselves from the conventional ones and then proved to be extremely innovative. Whilst in those days electric locomotives usually had the well known side rod drive from the steam locomotive, these two machines already had a single axle drive, as is standard practice nowadays with all modern electric locomotives. Single axle drive means that every driver axle has its own electric motor. Both locomotives were ordered in 1912 and supplied in 1914 and 1915 by Krauss (technical vehicular components) and Bergmanns Elektrische Werke (electric components). They were stationed in Freilassing and put into service on the hilly route between Freilassing and Berchtesgaden. Both locomotives were originally designated as EG4 X 1/1 in accordance with Bavarian customs. With an overall weight of 56 t they were able to produce a maximum tractive force of 9.300 kg, whilst the maximum speed was set at 50 km/h. They proved to be outstanding, a replica build of this locomotive or development of the drive concept however didn't happen initially, it was only 20 years later that the single axle drive made its breakthrough. The locomotives were obviously ahead of their time. The two Bavarian EG4 X 1/1 still existed after the First World War and had been taken over by the Deutsche Reichsbahn district management of Bavaria. After 1923 the complex designation was replaced by a simple EG 1 and after 1926 they were then allocated the E73 series for the DRG. Both locomotives were always based in Freilassing, in addition to their regular route they were also used for shunting purposes in Salzburg. At the DRG they were obviously very satisfied as well, as the locomotives were only removed from service in 1937 and 1941. One of the two locomotives was converted to a snowplough and it remained in service for many, many years.