Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks has broadened its acclaimed Zetros product line, introducing the formidable Mercedes-Benz Zetros 8×8 truck. This expansion ensures the Zetros series now encompasses two-axle, three-axle, and four-axle configurations, with the added option of factory-installed protected cabs. The new Zetros 8×8, along with the protected cab variant, significantly strengthens Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks’ portfolio in military logistics and support vehicles, offering robust and versatile solutions for modern defense forces. Showcased at Eurosatory, the world-leading defense and security exhibition, were the Zetros 8×8, a Zetros equipped with a protected cab, the Zetros 4×4, alongside the Arocs, Unimog troop transporter, and the adaptable FGA chassis, demonstrating the breadth of Mercedes-Benz’s offerings for military applications.
Expanding the Zetros Family: The Power of the 8×8 Mercedes Military Truck
From 2025, the Zetros range will officially include the 8×8 all-wheel-drive variant, available in two distinct models. This evolution stems from a substantial order from the Canadian Ministry of Defence, a testament to the Zetros’s reliability and performance in demanding military operations. Over 1500 Zetros vehicles are slated for delivery to Canada in the coming years, highlighting the vehicle’s crucial role in modern military logistics. The Zetros 8×8 is engineered to deliver a significantly enhanced payload capacity, reaching up to 25 tons, without compromising its exceptional off-road capabilities. This makes it an ideal Mercedes Military Truck for transporting heavy equipment, supplies, and systems across challenging terrains.
The increased payload capacity of the Zetros 8×8 is complemented by a larger body space, thanks to an extended vehicle frame. This expanded area allows for a wider array of tactical and logistical applications, making the Zetros 8×8 a highly adaptable asset for military forces. Powering the Zetros 8×8 is the robust OM 460 in-line six-cylinder diesel engine, delivering between 265 to 375 kW (360 to 510 hp), and an impressive maximum torque of up to 2,300 Nm from its 12.8-liter displacement. This powertrain ensures reliable performance under heavy loads and in demanding off-road conditions. Drivers of the Zetros benefit from excellent slope and ramp angles, substantial fording depth, and engageable longitudinal and transverse differential locks. These features collectively maximize traction and maneuverability, ensuring the Zetros 8×8 maintains its legendary off-road prowess while significantly boosting transport efficiency.
The Zetros 8×8 Mercedes military truck will be available in two configurations: a version with two steered axles at the front and two fixed axles at the rear, and another featuring one steered front axle and three rear axles, with the last rear axle also steerable to minimize the turning radius. Both variants will be offered as both tractor units and carrier vehicles with ample body space, catering to diverse operational needs.
Enhanced Protection: Factory-Integrated Protected Cabs for Mercedes Military Trucks
Responding to the critical need for crew protection in modern military operations, Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks now offers factory-installed protected cabs for all Zetros models. This significant enhancement ensures that drivers and crew are shielded from ballistic threats and landmines. Previously available for the Zetros 6×6, the protected cab option will be progressively extended across the entire Zetros high-terrain series from 2025 onwards, available on a project-specific basis. This integration means that military customers can now procure a complete Mercedes military truck, including a protected cab, directly from a single source, simplifying procurement and ensuring seamless component integration.
This streamlined approach offers numerous advantages, including a single point of contact, unified manufacturing and quality control, harmonized components, and consolidated invoicing. Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks also guarantees comprehensive service and spare parts availability, reinforcing its commitment to supporting military operations. While offering factory-protected cabs, Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks will continue collaborations with specialized manufacturers of protected driver cabs and cells to accommodate specific customer requirements and national defense standards, ensuring tailored solutions for diverse military needs.
Eurosatory 2024: A Showcase of Mercedes-Benz Military Vehicles
Eurosatory 2024 in Paris served as the perfect stage for Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks to display its cutting-edge military vehicle offerings. Among the highlights was the Zetros 8×8, presented with a container system as part of the major Canadian order. This Zetros 8×8 model measures 11.15 meters in length, 2.60 meters in width, and 3.70 meters in height, powered by a Euro V OM 460 six-cylinder in-line engine producing 376 kW (510 hp). It features an Allison 4500 SP automatic transmission for superior driving dynamics and a tire pressure regulation system for optimal performance across varied terrains, including sand and mud. With a fording depth of 1.50 meters, the Zetros excels in water crossings and maintains high off-road mobility. Equipped with a hook lift system, it ensures rapid container loading and unloading, vital for efficient logistics.
Also on display was a Zetros 6×6 featuring a protected cab and a self-sealing tank from Lindner & Fischer, developed in partnership with WEW Westerwälder Eisenwerk GmbH. This self-sealing technology enhances operational safety by automatically sealing breaches in the tank, minimizing liquid loss. The interchangeable tank body, secured by twistlock fasteners, allows for quick mounting and removal, increasing vehicle versatility. Another Zetros variant, the 4×4 flatbed, was presented with a Mercedes-Benz OM460 Euro III engine producing 265 kW (360 hp), configured with a low-torsion platform body and tarpaulin, illustrating its utility for troop and material transport.
The Mercedes-Benz Arocs 6×6 semitrailer tractor, equipped with a double winch and the powerful OM460 engine delivering 310 kW (421 hp), demonstrated its heavy-duty off-road capabilities. Designed for challenging environments, the Arocs 6×6 is ideal as an armored tractor unit, with the double cable winch facilitating vehicle recovery and load handling. The Unimog U 5000 troop transporter, a staple in military fleets for nearly 75 years, was showcased with a Euro 3 OM 924 engine and a flatbed body from EMPL Fahrzeugwerk GmbH. Finally, the FGA chassis, designed for protected superstructures, highlighted its role as a foundation for armored tactical military wheeled vehicles (APCs), supporting gross vehicle weights from 9.5 to 14.8 tons. This chassis, derived from the Unimog, is favored by international military vehicle manufacturers for its off-road capability, robustness, and the comprehensive support provided by Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks.
Conclusion: Setting New Standards in Military Vehicle Technology
The introduction of the Zetros 8×8 and the availability of factory-protected cabs across the Zetros range underscore Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks’ commitment to providing cutting-edge, reliable, and versatile Mercedes military truck solutions. These advancements not only enhance the Zetros’s operational capabilities but also streamline procurement and support for military customers. With a comprehensive portfolio showcased at Eurosatory, Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks reaffirms its position as a leading provider of military vehicles, ready to meet the evolving demands of modern defense forces worldwide.
