Each power driving car (designated as DR2800s) was equipped with a Cummins NT855-R4 diesel engine producing 310 horsepower (230 kW) to move the train.

The trailer (designated as DR2850s) has a diesel engine to provide head-end power for the entire three-car set.

The DR2800 series operated as Tze-chiang limited express between Taipei and Hualien on June 1, 1982.

With a top speed of 110 kilometres per hour (68 mph) and air-conditioning, the demand was so high that Taiwan Railways Administration ordered another 5 sets (15 cars) in 1984.

As of February 2025, only one DR2800 series is in service operating as TRA track evaluation train.