In the mid-1960s, the E 03 series was developed, designed to be the strongest DB locomotive for heavy passenger trains at that time. From 1970 to 1974, 145 series locomotives were put into service. The last 30 locomotives (from 103 216) received an enlarged cab, making them 700 mm longer. At the end of the official service period, a machine was created at the suggestion of many fans of this series, featuring a new traffic red livery with a contrasting colored frame, similar to the classic 103 in red/beige. The company ROCO acted as the sponsor for this paint scheme. As a special feature, the machine was presented with a dedication text under the right side cab window.