The drive of the locomotive consists of four three-phase asynchronous squirrel-cage traction motors. The traction motors are powered from traction converters. The auxiliary drives (compressors, fans) are driven by three-phase asynchronous motors. Traction is controlled by a microprocessor, and the locomotive can be controlled in manual, automatic speed control (ARR) or in automatic train control (AVV).
Locomotives 381 have a lower maximum speed (160km/h) and are fitted with ETCS L1 safety equipment. Škoda Pars carries out regular periodic berthing repairs on these locomotives.
