Fleischmann - 731177 - Locomotive, Electric, Siemens ES64 U Taurus - Hamburg-Köln-Express - 64 U2-034

Model Information: The Fleischmann electric locomotive class 1116 is a very impressive model with exceptional running performance and extensive detail. The model is equipped with a powerful motor with flywheel, full cab interiors, intricate roof details and much more. Model has sound decoder with many sound files recorded from the original loco. LED headlights that coordinate with direction of travel.

- Highly detailed body featuring 2 metal pantographs;
- Bi-directional LED head- and tail- lights;
- Five pole motor with flywheel;
- All four axles powered; two with traction tires;
- NEM close coupler pockets and mechanisms on both ends.

DCC Information: 6 pin NEM 651 decoder interface.

Prototype History: Based on the Siemens Eurosprinter concept, the ES 64 U was developed as a universal electric locomotive with a top speed of 230 km/h (140 mph). The ÖBB assigned the protected name Taurus to Class 1016 (and later to the Classes 1116 and 1216); since then all ES 64 U+ series are widely known as 'Taurus' locos.
The locomotives of this type are multi-system electric locomotives of the latest generation, which can be used for heavy freight traffic and the fast travel across borders. They currently operate in Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech republic, Germany, Italy, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia and Switzerland.

They have been produced in three different variants:

U64U - ÖBB BR 1016 - only operating on 15 kV 16 2/3 Hz AC supply in Austria.
Built: 1999–2006 - more than 300 produced for ÖBB (combined with BR 1116)

U64U2 - ÖBB BR 1116 - can also operate on 25 kV 50 Hz AC.
- also referred to as (Germany) Deutsche Bahn AG Class 182, (Hungary) MÁV Class 470, GySEV Class 1047
Built: 1999–2006 - more than 300 produced for ÖBB (combined with BR 1016)

U64U4 - ÖBB BR 1216 - can operate under 4 different 3-phase supplies.
- also referred to as (Slovenia) Slovenske železnice (SŽ) Class 541, (Poland) PKP Intercity (PKP IC) Class EU44 "Husarz", (Italy) FS E 190.
Built: 2005–2011 - initial order of 50 by ÖBB

On 2 September 2006 the locomotive 1216 025-7 (prior to delivery to ÖBB) set a new world record for conventional electric locomotives, when, during the trials near Nürnberg, it reached a top speed of 357 km/h (222 mph).
The locomotive was not modified for the record. Since then, this type has become the fastest locomotive in the world.

From Wikipedia
Read more (in German) about ES64U2 and ES64U4

Road Name History: Hamburg-Köln-Express GmbH (HKX) was a Cologne-based open-access train operating company providing long-distance railway passenger services in Germany. It was founded in October 2009 as a joint venture by Railroad Development Corporation (RDC) Deutschland GmbH, an affiliate of USA-based Railroad Development Corp., Locomore rail GmbH & CO. KG, and British railway investor Michael Schabas.

Since 23 July 2012, HKX has operated regular services between Hamburg-Altona and Cologne. The journey takes about 4h 20min, similar to that of services operated by DB but with lower fares. On 24 March 2018, Flixmobility, the parent company of Flixbus, took over the operations of HKX, whose route was subsequently rebranded under the Flixtrain branding, complementing the former Locomore train service operated by Leo Express on behalf of Flixmobility since 2017.From Wikipedia

Brand/Importer Information: As a high-quality company we set the standard when it comes to prototype fidelity and functionality. Our aim is to enthrall novices and experts alike and to be the enduring long-term partner for a fascinating hobby that spans all generations. We achieve this with the true-to-detail design and the reliability of our models and with innovations that offer a new dimension in the play value and fun factor. The high commitment to quality that has characterised Fleischmann for more than 125 years has ensured our company?s position as an internationally leading brand for model railways.

Small-scale greatness. Its comprehensive range in the N scale makes Fleischmann the international market leader in this sector. There are over 350 highly detailed models to choose from in the space-saving 9-mm gauge. Continuous and targeted extension of the range will allow Fleischmann to expand its competitive edge in the future.