Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks has broadened its acclaimed Zetros product family with the introduction of the new Mercedes-Benz Zetros 8×8 truck. This expansion means the Zetros will now be available as a two-axle, three-axle, or four-axle truck, and can be specified with a protected cab directly from the factory. The new Zetros 8×8, along with the factory-fitted protected cab, significantly enhances Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks’ portfolio of military logistics and support vehicles. The company showcased its expanded range at Eurosatory, featuring the Zetros 8×8, a Zetros with a protected cab, Zetros 4×4, Arocs, Unimog troop transporter, and FGA chassis. The press event at Eurosatory took place on Monday, June 17, 2024, at stand D127 (EXTPe6b Outdoor).
From 2025, Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks will offer the Zetros off-road truck with four axles and all-wheel drive (8×8) in two distinct variants. This addition allows the Zetros series to cover an even wider array of configurations, from two-axle to four-axle models. The Zetros 8×8, a highlight at Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks’ Eurosatory display, is a direct result of a substantial order from the Canadian Ministry of Defence, which will see over 1,500 Zetros vehicles delivered in the coming years. Alongside the Zetros 8×8, Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks presented a Zetros equipped with a protected cab. This crucial safety feature will now be available directly from the Wörth plant. Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks can now supply the complete Zetros high-terrain product range, from 4×4 to 8×8, with and without protected cabs, all from a single source. Visitors to stand D127 (EXTPe6b Outdoor) also had the opportunity to view other vehicles tailored for military applications, including a Unimog U5000 troop transporter, an Arocs 6×6 armored tractor unit, a Zetros 4×4, and the adaptable FGA chassis designed for armored personnel carriers (APCs).
Franziska Cusumano, Head of Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks, stated, “Expanding our portfolio allows us to offer customers the complete spectrum of the Zetros high-terrain truck series. The new Zetros 8×8 provides a robust and highly mobile logistics solution with significant payload capacity for military operations. The availability of the Zetros with a protected cab from a single source further streamlines procurement for our clients. And importantly, all of this is ‘made in Germany,’ ensuring top quality and reliability.”
Enhanced Payload and Body Space with the New Zetros 8×8
The new 8×8 vehicle variant of the Mercedes Military Vehicles boasts a considerably increased payload capacity of up to 25 tons, while maintaining exceptional off-road capabilities. The extended vehicle frame also provides greater body space, broadening the Zetros’ utility for diverse tactical and logistical missions.
Image: The new Mercedes-Benz Zetros 8×8 military truck, showcasing its container carrying capabilities for military logistics.
The Zetros series, powered by the robust OM 460 in-line six-cylinder diesel engine, delivers between 265 to 375 kW (360 to 510 hp) and a maximum torque of up to 2,300 Nm from its 12.8-liter displacement. This engine is engineered for demanding operations. Off-road performance is further enhanced by generous slope and ramp angles and impressive fordability. Engageable longitudinal and transverse differential locks optimize traction and maneuverability across varied terrains. The Zetros 8×8 amplifies transport efficiency without compromising its renowned off-road prowess, making it a superior choice for military applications requiring heavy lifting and agility.
Two 8×8 Variants: Maximizing Versatility
The Zetros 8×8 will be available in two distinct configurations to cater to specific operational needs. The first variant features two axles at the front and two at the rear, with both front axles being steerable for enhanced maneuverability. The second configuration includes one steerable front axle and three rear axles, with the last of the three rear axles also steerable to minimize the turning radius. Both variants will be offered as both tractor units and carrier vehicles with substantial body space, providing maximum flexibility for different military roles.
Protected Cab Option Across the Zetros Range
The introduction of the Zetros 8×8 coincides with the new availability of factory-protected cabs for the Mercedes military vehicles. This armored cab option shields the driver and crew from ballistic threats and landmines, significantly enhancing crew safety in hostile environments. Initially available for the Zetros 6×6, the protected cab will be progressively rolled out across the entire Zetros high-terrain series from 2025 onwards, adaptable to specific project requirements.
Image: Mercedes-Benz Zetros 6×6 military vehicle equipped with a factory-installed protected cab, highlighting enhanced crew safety.
Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks is expanding its product range to provide comprehensive vehicle solutions, including protected cabs, directly from a single source, even for large-scale orders. This single-source approach offers customers numerous benefits: a single point of contact, one manufacturer ensuring component harmony, and consolidated invoicing. Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks also guarantees extensive service and spare parts availability, underpinning the reliability of their military vehicles. For specialized requests and national requirements, Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks continues to collaborate with established manufacturers of protected driver cabs and protected cells for military trucks and chassis.
Mercedes-Benz Military Vehicles on Display at Eurosatory
Eurosatory, Europe’s leading Security & Defence trade fair, held in Paris from June 17–21, 2024, served as the platform for Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks to showcase six of their advanced vehicles.
Zetros 8×8 with Container: Canadian Order Specimen
The showcased Zetros 8×8, part of the major Canadian order, measures 11.15 meters in length, 2.60 meters in width, and 3.70 meters in height. It is powered by the Euro V OM 460 six-cylinder in-line engine, displacing 12.8 liters and producing 376 kW (510 hp). The Allison 4500 SP automatic transmission ensures superior driving dynamics. The tire pressure regulation system allows for on-the-move adjustments for optimal performance in sand and mud. With a 1.50-meter fordability, the Zetros excels in water crossings and maintains high off-road mobility. Equipped with a hook lift system and front spreader, it facilitates rapid container loading and unloading, crucial for efficient military logistics.
Zetros 6×6 with Protected Cab and Self-Sealing Tank
The Eurosatory display also featured a Zetros 6×6 equipped with a protected cab from Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks and a self-sealing tank from Lindner & Fischer, developed in partnership with WEW Westerwälder Eisenwerk GmbH. This self-sealing technology reacts with the coating to automatically seal damage areas, preventing critical leaks. The tank body, secured via an interchangeable frame with twistlock fasteners, allows for quick mounting and dismounting, enhancing the vehicle’s adaptability in the field.
Zetros 4×4 Flatbed / Tarpaulin
Another Zetros variant on display was the 4×4 model, powered by a Mercedes-Benz OM460 Euro III six-cylinder engine, delivering 265 kW (360 hp) from its 12.8-liter displacement. This model featured a low-torsion platform body with tarpaulin and benches, configured for transporting both personnel and materiel efficiently.
Image: Mercedes-Benz Zetros 4×4 military truck configured with a flatbed and tarpaulin for versatile transport of personnel and equipment.
Arocs 6×6 Semitrailer Tractor with Double Winch
The Mercedes-Benz Arocs, known for its heavy-duty drive components and robust chassis, is well-suited for demanding off-road operations. At Eurosatory, the Arocs 6×6 was showcased with the same powerful OM460 engine as the Zetros models, producing 310 kW (421 hp). Equipped with twin tires and a double winch, this semitrailer tractor is designed for heavy off-road transport, functioning effectively as an armored tractor unit. The double cable winch system is invaluable for recovering damaged vehicles and facilitating loading and unloading onto low-loaders in challenging conditions.
Unimog U 5000 Flatbed / Tarpaulin: A Legacy of Military Service
Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks also presented the Unimog, a vehicle with nearly 75 years of service in state armed forces. The Unimog U 5000 on display featured the Euro 3 OM 924 engine producing 163 kW (222 hp) and a torsion-free flatbed body from EMPL Fahrzeugwerk GmbH, configured as a troop transporter.
FGA Chassis: Foundation for Armored Personnel Carriers
The FGA chassis, designed for “protected superstructures,” serves as the base for armored tactical military wheeled vehicles (Armored Personnel Carriers, APCs) with gross vehicle weights from 9.5 to 14.8 tons. Numerous international military vehicle manufacturers utilize this chassis, derived from the Unimog, for their products. They benefit from its exceptional off-road capability, robustness, comprehensive service and spare parts network, and expert support from Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks engineers. The driveline of the 14.8-ton special chassis includes the Euro III six-cylinder OM 926 LA diesel engine, delivering 240 kW (336 hp), paired with the Allison 3500 automatic transmission. The chassis is equipped with mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic interfaces, accommodating a wide range of superstructures, making it a versatile platform for diverse military applications.
