Translated Description from PIKO: New for 2023: Between 1930 and 1938, a total of 298 class 03 standard express train locomotives were built for the Deutsche Reichsbahn for use on routes with a maximum axle load of 18 t. The design was based on the 01 series, whose wheelset weight was over 20 t. To reduce overall mass, the 03 series featured a lighter bar frame and a smaller boiler and cylinder. While the first 122 machines were initially approved for a maximum speed of 120 km/h, this was 130 km/h ex works for the later units. In 1959, the DB's inventory comprised a total of 145 units of the class 03. Nine years later, this had been reduced to 45 of the locomotives now known as the class 003, of which the last three were finally put into service in 1972. Arthur once dedicated himself to the elegant Pacific steam locomotives Honegger a musical composition. With the 03, such a machine is rolling into the PIKO range. The high-lying, slim boiler and the airy bar frame with a clear view also characterize the silhouette of the machine in the model. The filigree chassis with fine spokes and very plastic counterweights looks particularly graceful. The new design has suitable add-on parts such as bells, pumps and lamps. Numerous attached boiler lines complete the external impression. The drive and flywheel mass housed in the tender ensure ideal driving characteristics. The factory digital variants of the model have switchable lighting in the engine and on the driver's cab, as well as a red flickering firebox. These functions and various sounds can be controlled with the factory-integrated PIKO sound decoder. The sound variant also has an integrated steam generator ex works.
