It is the DC version of the 'Nez Cassé' family of locomotives built between 1976 and 1985 by Alstom.

Another relative is the NS Class 1600 operated in the Netherlands, a DC locomotive based on the BB 7200.

BB 7200 operations are limited to the French 1.5 kV DC electrified network in southeastern France, from Paris southwards.

7411-7440 are fitted with regenerative brakes for use on the steep Maurienne line in the Alps.

[1] Fourteen locomotives numbered 7311, 7312, 7314, 7325, 7326, 7327, 7330, 7331, 7332, 7335, 7337, 7339, 7341 and 7342 were modified for push-pull operation and become BB 7600 locomotives, to be operated on Transilien Paris – Montparnasse lines.