From 1976 to 1995, the ÖBB acquired 217 units of the four-axle thyristor locomotives of the 1044 series. With a power output of 5,120 kW and a maximum speed of up to 160 km/h, these locomotives shaped the modern image of the ÖBB for many years. Starting in 2002, all 1044 units were equipped with a push-pull control system, making the now-renamed 1144 vehicles even more versatile in their use.