Two high-speed diesel engines producing 2,000 hp each could provide this, but existing electric transmissions were unable to handle so much.

This avoided the commutator needed, which had become a limitation on power and machine speed for large locomotives.

The AC current was then rectified by arrays of silicon diodes and the DC produced was fed to the two traction motors.

The size of the alternator had also become a limitation at this time, requiring it to be either larger or spun more rapidly in order to handle the power.

The two engines each rotated in the same relative direction, but were mounted at opposite ends with their drive through Geislinger couplings, and so drove the rotors contra-rotating.