How is the 1989-built Chinese USRA Mikado more efficient?

What purpose do those rectangular sheets that are installed at the front end have, such as on that model 5AT model ? (They remind me of "horse blinders" in the days of horse cars.)

They are "smoke lifters" or "deflectors" and do basicaly that. By creating a bit of a draft they help lift the smoke above the cab and out of the crews way.
And you're not the only one to be reminded of that. The various forms of lifters have been called "horse-blinders," as well as "elephant ears" and other names I'm sure.

Thank you.

NP.