The locomotives were produced with an intention of being fuel efficient and to be used for light to medium duties such as short passenger runs along with occasional shunting.
[2] It was planned that the initial two locomotives would be produced by Diesel-Loco Modernization Works, Patiala (DLMW) while the remaining units would be built at a factory in Sherpur of Sehore district.
The locos, for the first time in India, featured a Nathan K5LA multi-chime horn, which proved to be a little quieter for Indian operations.
On the inside, the locomotive features 3 prime movers, each of Cummins QSK-19 type which is a 6 cylinder four stroke engine producing a power of 800 HP.
This also means that the resultant nitrous oxides emission is lesser in these locos making them more environmentally friendly than the previous diesel locomotives of Indian Railways.
The chief reason why production was not continued was due to the persuasion of route electrification in Indian Railways.