They were introduced for the electrification of the Eastern Suburbs, South-Western and Western lines.

Between 1906 and 1914, all were converted to L class trams at Randwick Tramway Workshops with the open seating altered to a cross-bench configuration, like the K and O class trams, rather than the original cable-tram style outward-facing longitudinal seating.

In 1920, 16 were allocated to the Rockdale Line while 98 were transferred to the Newcastle network between 1923 and 1926.

Ten of those at Newcastle had air hoses installed at their number 1 end, enabling them to tow trailers, including two hearses, as explained in the Newcastle electric text.

On the main system they operated out of Dowling Street, Newtown, Tempe and Waverley depots.