[2] The locomotives were based on the Class DE10-0 design and were equipped with a 1,250 hp (930 kW) engine and train-heating steam generator.

[1] Six Class DE15-1000 locomotives were built between 1971 and 1973 by Nippon Sharyo using the DML61ZB engine uprated to 1,350 hp (1,010 kW).

[2] Type for clearing double-track lines, fitted with 1,350 hp (1,010 kW) engine and train-heating steam generator.

[1] From 1976, a further batch of locomotives was built by Kawasaki Heavy Industries and Nippon Sharyo with snowplough units at both ends and designed for clearing double-track lines.

[2] As of 1 April 2016[update], one Class DE15-2050 locomotive remains in service, DE15 2052, operated by JR West.

[1] This subclass was built between 1976 and 1979 by Kawasaki Heavy Industries and Nippon Sharyo with snowplough units at both ends and designed for clearing single-track lines.

[2] As of 1 April 2016[update], one Class DE15-2550 locomotive remains in service, DE15 2558, operated by JR West.