Modernized in the 1950s, the class lasted almost until the end of steam operation at the West German Deutsche Bundesbahn (DB).

With the introduction of high speed services on an increasing number of lines Deutsche Reichsbahn required powerful express steam locomotives.

This was more than the existing Class 01 and 03 two-cylinder engines could cope with, having no sufficient power reserves and rough riding qualities at higher speed, Hence the 01.10 was designed with a three-cylinder layout.

Parts of their streamlined claddings were missing and the boilers, made of steel that was not age-resistant, showed signs of fatigue.

However, as a result of the post-war locomotive shortage, the class was partially reprieved and several engines with minor damages were overhauled.

The new front view looked unusual for a German steam engine with the smokebox door being cut off in the upper third to provide space for the retained feedwater heater.

These were built by Henschel of Kassel between 1953 and 1956 and installed at the Brunswick rmaintenance works, along with a mixing preheater system.

On 31 May 1975, the remaining engines from Rheine shed ran the last scheduled services, being celebrated by a large number of railway enthusiasts.