Mercedes-Benz UNIMOG (UNIversal-MOtor-Gerat)

History

German infrastructure went through a critical rebuilding phase after World War II. While controlling the arms production sector, more private efforts have been made to close the economic deficit.

One of these initiatives gave birth to the famous Mercedes-Benz UNIMOG - "General Motors Gerat" - a four-wheel 4x4 drive medium commercial vehicle for the agricultural market. In this role, the car is unquestionably successful, thanks to its off-road capability, high ground clearance, and versatile setup that makes it usable almost anywhere it's (and will be) needed. The Pilot (prototype) appeared in 1946, and mass production began in 1947. Since then, the series has grown over the decades, including many militarized versions.

To date (2013), Mercedes-Benz has sold hundreds of thousands of UNIMOG vehicles since the 1940s.

Initial production was taken over by Erhard and Sons in Schwaebisch Gmuend. Daimler-Benz became its main manufacturer in 1951, and its famous and easily recognizable Mercedes logo adorns the engine grilles of all vehicles.

The high center of gravity cab provides ample headroom as well as seating for up to three people and excellent visibility over the vehicle's short nose. Access is via automotive-style hinged French doors located on either side of the cabin.

The steering assembly is mounted on the left, in front of the traditional dashboard, with typical automotive status gauges, gauges and a pair of LCD multifunction units. The cab is also air-conditioned for operation in hot/humid climates and provides heaters for all other climates.

Available with square or round (optional) roof hatches.

The key to UNIMOG's success is its available onboard power, which has proven itself in driving a large number of industrial machines with running engines. As such, UNIMOG has been used in agriculture, forestry, snow removal, lawn mowing, brush/debris removal, firefighting (forest fires), humanitarian assistance (rescue), and to reach remote, hard-to-reach locations, including flooded areas and thick snowpacks (The latter are both achieved through tall exhaust ports along the sides of the cabin). The car can tow about 1,100 tons (short).

The inherent military application of this vehicle is clear.

Mercedes-Benz UNIMOG models currently on sale include the U300, U400, U500 series (part of the "Professional Implement Carriers" group) U3000, U4000 and U5000. Several major armed forces, including the U.S. Army and Marine Corps, use the handy UNIMOG in their existing assets.

Specification

Basic

Roles

Dimensions

Performance

Performance

Armor

Depends on personal weapons carried by the crew, if any.

Changes