To increase speeds in passenger train traffic, the Deutsche Bundesbahn developed the E03 series in the 1960s. The prototype locomotives E03 001 to E03 004 became available starting in 1965. These locomotives, designated as 103 001 to 103 004 from 1968, differed from the series machines built from 1970 in several details. A very noticeable external feature was the second fan row on the series locomotives. The main area of operation for the beige/red painted locomotives was the TEE as well as the IC/EC traffic. Starting in 1987, the locomotives were gradually painted in the orient red color, with various design versions applied. In 1997, the star of the former "Starloks" of the DB began to fade. They were replaced by the BR 101. In 2003, regular service in train operations ended, but the locomotives 103 001, 103 113, and 103 245, which are assigned to the DB Museum, are still used sporadically.