The DR's V 15/101 series locomotives did not have enough power for some traction operations. As a result, they were further developed into the V 23. A new 220 HP/162 kW engine and power unit were installed in the virtually unchanged V 15. The external appearance of the new locomotive could only be distinguished from the proven V 15 at the rear, where it was fitted with a reinforced frame.
 
Locomotives feature a heavy metal frame, diecast body, three-pole skew-wound motor and NEM couplers.
 

 
Includes built-in DCC decoder socket.