The model name stands for broad gauge (W), Direct Current (C), Passenger traffic (P) engine, 2nd generation (2).

Powerful locomotives were required to transport the express trains on the mountain railway to overcome the Western Ghats.

The tender and evaluation was monitored by the UK electrical engineering firm Merz & McLellan in London.

After the voltage test, the locomotive body was lifted off the driving wheels and the bogies and the engines removed.

The engines could be removed laterally through maintenance openings in the lower area of the machine room side wall.