Among the first generation of diesel locomotives built in Belgium was the HLD 59, later designated type 201. With four axles it was designed for flat lines in Flanders, as opposed to the six-axle EMD locomotives which were used in hilly regions. The engine was built under license from Baldwin and the electric part had been designed in Belgium. With an output of 1,700 hp and a top speed of 120 km/h, they were suited for passenger and freight service. Passenger service ended in 1984 with the introduction of new train types. At the beginning of the 2000s, they had also been removed from regular freight service and were only used for work trains. After that, five were preserved of which one is in working condition today.