The Class 3E was the first six-axle electric locomotive in SAR service and, with a maximum safe speed of, was designed for use where higher speeds were possible on track with less severe curvature than on the lower Natal mainline.
The Class 3E was the first six-axle electric locomotive in SAR service and was geared for a maximum safe speed of. It was designed for both goods and passenger working on the Western Transvaal System, where higher speeds were possible on track with less severe curvature than on the lower Natal mainline.