https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siemens_Velaro#Velaro_Novo https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siemens_Velaro#Velaro_Novo They have distributed traction, meaning power

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siemens_Velaro#Velaro_Novo https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siemens_Velaro#Velaro_Novo They have distributed traction, meaning powered bogies in every second wagon for the current variants. There is no 'engine/locomotive' in the classical sense. All of these also have electronic anti-slip/traction control. Edit: Even if a quarter of the powered bogies are defect for whichever reason, the remaining ones still suffice to accelerate from full stop at 4% grade. By design. For current variants. It's a variable platform. They could use more powered bogies. Stronger motors. Whatever.