However, in anticipation of the higher loads, the suspension was strengthened and power output increased by 500 kW (671 hp).

Length over buffers is the same as E 18, and external differences are mainly in the arrangement of fans and windows.

Since the Reichsbahn also wanted to make a comparison between the two biggest electrical companies in Germany, especially in the field of power electronics, the delivered locomotives were slightly different from each other.

The enclosure panels were welded instead of riveted and the engines were fitted with a modified precision regulator, which, despite smoother switching transitions, only had 20 speed steps (compared to 29 on the E 18).

The E 19 01 entered service in 1938 with a black frame and burgundy body with white pinstripes.

The top speed had already been reduced to 140 km/h in the 1950s by a gearbox and motor conversion, to make them more suitable for their new main application on the Franconian Forest Railway.