The model name stands for broad gauge (W), AC Current (A), Passenger traffic (P) locomotive, 1st generation (1).

A total of 65 WAP-1 were built at CLW between 1980 and 1996, which made them the most numerous class of mainline electric passenger locomotive until its successor, the WAP-4.

In the early 1980s, Indian Railways began considering developing a passenger version of its WAM-4 class.

[1][failed verification] Designed for both passenger and goods trains the WAM-4 was one of the most successful locomotives of the 1970s and a mainstay of the Indian Railways.

[3] The locomotive is powered by six axle-hungs, nose-suspended forced ventilated type DC traction motors.