Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks Expands Defence Portfolio with Four-Axle Zetros at Eurosatory 2024
Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks is proud to announce the expansion of its Zetros product family with the introduction of the new Mercedes-Benz Zetros 8×8 truck. This robust and highly capable off-road vehicle will be on display for the first time at Eurosatory, the leading European trade fair for security and defence.
Key Highlights:
Expanded Zetros Range: The Zetros will now be available in two-axle, three-axle, and four-axle configurations, with optional protected cabs directly from the manufacturer.
Zetros 8×8 Launch: The new 8×8 variant, designed to meet the demands of military logistics, will offer enhanced payload capacity and increased body space. Comprehensive Military Vehicle Display: Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks will showcase the Zetros 8×8, Zetros with a protected cab, Zetros 4×4, Arocs, Unimog troop transporter, and FGA chassis.
New Zetros 8×8: Enhanced Payload and Mobility
The Zetros 8×8 is designed for heavy-duty use with a significant payload capacity of up to 25 tons and increased body space due to its extended vehicle frame. Equipped with the powerful OM 460 in-line six-cylinder diesel engine, it delivers 265 to 375 kW (360 to 510 hp) and a maximum torque of up to 2,300 Nm from 12.8 liters of displacement. The truck maintains high off-road capability with large slope and ramp angles and fordability, enhanced by engageable longitudinal and transverse differential locks.
Variants:
Two Front Axles, Two Rear Axles: Both front axles are steered for better maneuverability.
One Steerable Front Axle, Three Rear Axles: The last rear axle is steerable to reduce the turning radius. Both variants are available as tractor units or carrier vehicles with a large body space.
Protected Cabs from a Single Source
Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks will now offer the entire Zetros range with the option of a protected cab. This feature provides ballistic and landmine protection for the driver and crew, ensuring safety in hostile environments. The protected cab option, already available for the Zetros 6×6, will be extended across the entire Zetros range from 2025. This move allows customers to obtain a complete vehicle solution with harmonized components directly from Mercedes-Benz.
Eurosatory 2024 Display
At Eurosatory, taking place in Paris from June 17–21, 2024, visitors can explore the following Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks:
Zetros 8×8: Featuring a container from a major Canadian Ministry of Defence order, this model boasts high off-road mobility, a 1.50-meter fordability, and a tire pressure regulation system for challenging terrains.
Zetros 6×6 with Protected Cab: Displaying a self-sealing tank by Lindner & Fischer, built in collaboration with WEW Westerwalder Eisenwerk GmbH.
Zetros 4×4: Equipped with a low-torsion platform body for personnel and materiel transport.
Arocs 6×6: A semitrailer tractor with a double winch for heavy off-road transport.
Unimog U 5000: A versatile troop transporter with a flatbed and tarpaulin body from EMPL Fahrzeugwerk GmbH.
FGA Chassis: A tactical chassis for armored personnel carriers (APCs), derived from the Unimog, suitable for a wide range of military applications.
Conclusion
Statement from Franziska Cusumano, Head of Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks
The new Zetros 8×8 provides a robust and highly mobile logistics vehicle with a large payload for military use. Customers will benefit from the availability of a protected cab directly from the manufacturer. And all of this is made in Germany, of course.”
Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks continues to lead in providing versatile and reliable vehicles for military and defence purposes. The new Zetros 8×8, along with the extended range of protected cab options, underscores the company’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. Visit stand D127 (EXTPe6b Outdoor) at Eurosatory to witness these advancements firsthand.