[3] The original classification as VT 2.09 refers to the general type of vehicle (VT = Verbrennungstriebwagen = railcar with internal combustion engine), the power output (approximately 1/100 of the engine power, measured in PS) and the top speed (approximately 1/10 of the value in km/h).

The series had multiple nicknames, among them Ferkeltaxe ("piglet taxi") due to it being commonly used on rural lines, or Blutblase ("blood blister") because of their original dark red paint.

The six-cylinder engines of type 6 KVD 18 SIHRW, built by Elbewerk Roßlau and nearly identical to those used in the shunting locomotives of DR Class V 15,[5] were mounted beneath the floor.

The electrical systems of the powered car were supplied by a 24 V / 1.2 kW alternator, those of the trailers by generators which were driven from the axle by a belt.

Thermostat-controlled heating was provided by oil-fired radiators, in the powered cars also by the engine cooling water.

For easier manufacturing, later vehicles were equipped with flat glass windows overall, and have pillars in the cab corners.

Some driving trailers were motorised, and two powered cars that were used on the lines on Usedom island were converted to use natural gas as engine fuel.