Posted on 5-12-2025 by Dennis

At the end of the 1960s, the Deutsche Bundesbahn faced a challenge: there was a need for a powerful locomotive for fast freight trains. The result? The impressive BR 151, a six-axle powerhouse that handled heavy work on the rails for decades. ESU now brings this legend to life in four stunning versions, each with attention to detail and the latest digital technology.

Why choose these models?

• Top quality & realism: Metal body and chassis, finely detailed bogies with real springs, separately mounted handrails and brake systems.
• Digital perfection: Equipped with LokSound 5 decoder supporting DCC, Motorola®, M4, and Selectrix. Automatic registration via RailComPlus® and mfx®.

Innovative features:

• Two digitally controlled pantographs.
• PowerPack capacitor for uninterrupted power supply.
• Sensor-controlled sounds (curve squeal, brake sounds) and brake sparks during hard braking.
• Light & sound: Direction-dependent white/red lighting, cab, driver’s desk, and engine room illumination. High-quality speakers for realistic sound.
• Flexible system: Suitable for DC/AC, easily switchable between two-rail and three-rail.

Technical specifications

• Scale: H0 (1:87)
• Length over buffers: approx. 224 mm
• Minimum radius: 360 mm
• Weight: approx. 600 g for maximum traction
• Motor: powerful coreless motor with flywheel
• Decoder: LokSound 5, including extensive sound functions

The four variants

• ESU 31035 – BR 151 070 DB, A classic in original green livery.
• ESU 31036 – BR 151 088 DB, The elegant two-tone version from the 1980s.
ESU 31037 – BR 151 087 DB, Modern and powerful in striking red.
• ESU 31038 – BR 151 162004 Hectorrail, The international variant for today’s enthusiast.