For the serial conversion of some examples of the popular V-160 family, DB ordered powerful turbines of the type AVCO Lycoming T53-L13 from the then Klöckner-Humboldt-Deutz works. Starting in 1970, these units were used in the locomotives that were reclassified as series 210. The locomotives with operational numbers 210 001–008 quickly entered service on their intended main routes. Their daily schedule included the express train "TEE Bavaria" as well as other heavy express trains between the Bavarian capital Munich and Lindau.