West German Trucks: A definition

Leichtes Artillerie-Raketen-System (LARS) 110 SF1 der Bundeswehr auf einem Magirus-Deutz 178 D 15 A Lkw.

West Germany as a sovereign state existed from 1949 to 1990, so most of the cold war. During this time, a number of truck manufacturers still based in West Germany (which possessed the bulk of the territory before the partition of occupation areas between allies in 1945 and the iron curtain fell. These were already old and proven manufacturers such as Mercedes-Benz, MAN, and Iveco Magirus. These companies produced a range of trucks for various industries, including transportation, construction, and logistics.

Mercedes-Benz, in particular, is known for its high-quality trucks, with a reputation for durability, reliability, and advanced technology. The company produces a range of trucks, including the Actros, Atego, and Axor models, which are used in various industries.
MAN is another major truck manufacturer in West Germany, known for producing heavy-duty trucks for long-distance transportation. The company also produces buses, engines, and other products.
Iveco Magirus, which is now part of the Iveco group, also produced a range of trucks and firefighting vehicles. The company was known for its innovative designs and advanced technology.
Overall, West German truck manufacturers were known for their high-quality products and advanced technology, and many of their trucks are still in use today.


Magirus-Deutz 170


Magirus-Deutz 232

Manufacturers

Mercedes-Benz Trucks

Mercedes LA

Mercedes-Benz Trucks is a division of the German automotive company, Daimler AG, which is one of the largest producers of commercial vehicles in the world. Mercedes-Benz Trucks is specifically focused on producing heavy-duty trucks for various applications, including transportation, construction, and logistics. Mercedes-Benz Trucks produces a range of truck models, including the Actros, Atego, Arocs, Antos, and Econic, each designed to meet specific needs and requirements of different industries. The Actros is the company's flagship model and is known for its advanced technology, high fuel efficiency, and excellent safety features.


Mercedes LG 315

In addition to producing high-quality trucks, Mercedes-Benz Trucks is also committed to sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of its products. The company has introduced a number of innovative technologies, such as the Predictive Powertrain Control system, which uses GPS data to optimize fuel consumption, and the Econic NGT, a natural gas-powered truck that emits significantly lower levels of CO2 and other pollutants. Overall, Mercedes-Benz Trucks is a leading manufacturer of heavy-duty trucks, known for their reliability, durability, and advanced technology, and their trucks are widely used in various industries around the world.

Mercedes Unimog (1949)

(To come). Main article here.

MAN

MAN TGM Mil 18 4x4

MAN Truck & Bus is a division of the German engineering company, MAN SE, which produces commercial vehicles, engines, and other products. MAN trucks are known for their durability, reliability, and high-quality engineering, making them a popular choice for transportation and logistics companies worldwide. MAN produces a wide range of truck models, including heavy-duty trucks, medium-duty trucks, and vans. The heavy-duty trucks, such as the TGX and TGS models, are designed for long-distance transportation and heavy hauling, while the medium-duty trucks, such as the TGL and TGM models, are ideal for urban and regional distribution.

In addition to producing high-quality trucks, MAN is also committed to sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of its products. The company has introduced a range of innovative technologies, such as the EfficientLine package, which includes features like aerodynamic design, optimized drivetrain, and intelligent cruise control, to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

MAN also offers a range of after-sales services, including maintenance, repair, and training, to ensure that its trucks are always in top condition and that customers have the support they need to operate their fleets efficiently. Overall, MAN trucks are a popular choice for transportation and logistics companies around the world, known for their durability, reliability, and advanced technology.

Ford Germany

Ford already produced in Germany well before the war. Ford Germany was setup to produce parts in Hamburg in 1912. By the fall of 1924 the US Ford Motor Company established a sales office in Berlin to import 1,000 tractors. From August 1925 the Ford Motor Company Aktiengesellschaft entered the Berlin Companies Register and setup a factory at Westhafen, Berlin, to assemble kits and components with the first Model T (1,177 delivered in 1926) and more in 1927, Ford Model A in 1928, then a new factory at Cologne (Niehl) for 250,000 cars annually, marred by the 1929 Wall Street crash. It started production in May 1931 with the Ford Model A and in 1932 Model B. In 1933 the Ford Köln and the truck Model B V-8 and the Eifel in 1935-1940, making the company Germany's 4th largest automaker. The company was re-organised in 1939 and became Ford-Werke. With a strong support of Ford as late as 1941, the company severed its links with the US and focused on Military trucks for the German war effort until 1945, notably the Maultier half-track. Production restarted in May already and by 1948, Ford USA had reinvested in the company which best seller became the Taunus in Europe. The G398 was its first postwar military truck.


Ford G 398, the filiation with the later models is obvious. When the Bundeswehr was formed in 1956, the procurement of trucks in the 3t payload class was ordered, Daimler-Benz and Magirus-Deutz offered trucks in this class but already received orders in other segments and thus, Ford Germany was chosen to produced the cheaper G398SAM. 8,000 were built total, sharing with the Mercedes, MAN and Magirus the same boxy cabin. The chassis, along with the side-controlled V8 petrol engine, was a pre-war development by Ford (V 3000 S). It is comparatively narrow, but the Bundeswehr required the use of the standard driver's cab and case of the three-ton variant. This prompted Ford to widen the axles, but this did not significantly improve off-road handling. Due to the combination of insufficient track width and high center of gravity, the vehicle tended to tip over. With its angular bonnet, the vehicle was reminiscent of the much larger MAN 630 L2A/L2AE, and had an eight-cylinder V engine with an output of 68 kW (92 hp) and switchable all-wheel drive.

Of the 8,000 vehicles built, around 2,580 vehicles were equipped with a box body (G398SAM-S3). This served to use the vehicle as a workshop vehicle, field kitchen, staff vehicle or medical vehicle. Some vehicles were also used as carriers for various radars. The remaining approximately 5,440 vehicles were provided with platforms and tarpaulins/bows (G398SAM) for material transport or as tractors. A few vehicles were manufactured by the Meiler company as three-way tippers. With the exception of a few special vehicles, the trucks were phased out by 1975. Successor models to the Bundeswehr's three-tonner series were no longer pursued.

Magirus

Magirus-Deutz Jupiter 6x6

Magirus Trucks is a former German truck manufacturer now part of the Iveco Group. The company was founded in 1866 and known for producing high-quality firefighting vehicles, as well as other commercial vehicles such as trucks and buses. Magirus Trucks produced a range of trucks for various applications, including transportation, construction, and firefighting. The company was particularly known for its innovative designs and advanced technology, including its air-cooled engines, which were used in many of its trucks.

In the firefighting industry, Magirus Trucks was a leading manufacturer, producing a range of firefighting vehicles, including aerial ladder trucks, pumper trucks, and tankers. The company's firefighting vehicles were known for their advanced technology, such as their turntable ladders, which were capable of reaching heights of up to 70 meters.

In 1974, Magirus Trucks merged with Iveco, which is now part of the CNH Industrial Group. Today, the Magirus brand is still used for firefighting vehicles, and the company is a leading manufacturer of firefighting equipment worldwide. Overall, Magirus Trucks was a well-respected German truck manufacturer, known for its high-quality commercial vehicles and advanced technology. While the company is no longer producing trucks under the Magirus brand, its legacy continues in the firefighting industry.


Magirus-Deutz Jupiter 6x6


Magirus-Deutz KHD Jupiter


Magirus-Deutz semi-armored SPRL truck RakArtBtl 122


Magirus-Deutz A 6500

Its range of military trucks included the Magirus-Deutz Jupiter 6x6, and Magirus-Deutz A 6500 and TLF 3500, 170 and 232.

Bundeswehr's Trucks: Types and Use

Postwar Ford 3 tons G398 (used by the Bundeswehr 1955-78 as a 4x4). The MAN 630 was an enhanced copy of the latter.

Bundeswehr trucks are the military vehicles used by the German armed forces, known as the Bundeswehr. The Bundeswehr operates a wide range of trucks for various applications, including logistics, transportation of troops, and equipment. The Bundeswehr uses trucks from a range of manufacturers, including Mercedes-Benz, MAN, and Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles (RMMV), formerly known as MAN Trucks & Bus Defense. RMMV is a joint venture between MAN Truck & Bus AG and Rheinmetall AG, focused on producing military vehicles, including trucks and armored vehicles.

Some of the commonly used Bundeswehr truck models include the Mercedes-Benz Unimog, which is a multi-purpose off-road truck used for a range of applications, including troop transportation and logistics, and the RMMV HX series, which includes a range of trucks specifically designed for military use, with high mobility and off-road capabilities. Bundeswehr trucks are designed to meet the specific needs of the military, with features such as armored cabs, off-road capabilities, and advanced technology for communication and navigation. The trucks are also designed to be reliable and durable, able to operate in extreme conditions and in harsh environments.

Overall, Bundeswehr trucks are an important part of the German armed forces' logistics and transportation capabilities, and they play a crucial role in the Bundeswehr's ability to deploy and sustain its troops in a range of situations, both domestically and abroad.

Bundeswehr's Staff/recce cars

Canadian G-class

The Bundeswehr also operates a range of cars for various purposes, including transportation of personnel and equipment, as well as for use in training and other activities. Some of the commonly used Bundeswehr car models include the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, which is a multi-purpose off-road vehicle used for a range of applications, including transport of personnel, reconnaissance, and command and control, and the Volkswagen Amarok, which is used for transport of personnel and equipment in both urban and off-road environments.

The Bundeswehr also operates a number of specialized cars, such as the Audi A6 Avant and the BMW 5 Series Touring, which are used for VIP transport and other purposes, such as reconnaissance and surveillance. In addition to their specific features and capabilities, all Bundeswehr cars are designed to meet strict military standards for reliability, durability, and safety. They are also equipped with advanced technology for communication, navigation, and other purposes, and are regularly maintained and serviced to ensure they are always in top condition.

Overall, the Bundeswehr's cars play a crucial role in the German armed forces' ability to deploy and sustain its personnel and equipment, and they are an important part of the Bundeswehr's logistics and transportation capabilities.

Bundeswehr's Motorcycles

The Bundeswehr also operates motorcycles for various purposes, including reconnaissance, transport, and training. One of the commonly used Bundeswehr motorcycle models is the BMW R 1200 GS, which is a multi-purpose motorcycle with off-road capabilities. The R 1200 GS is used for reconnaissance and transport of personnel and equipment, particularly in off-road and rugged terrain.

Another commonly used model is the KTM 690 Enduro, which is a lightweight and agile motorcycle that is particularly useful for scouting and reconnaissance in difficult terrain. The KTM 690 Enduro is also used for training purposes, particularly for training motorcycle riders in off-road driving techniques. All Bundeswehr motorcycles are designed to meet military standards for reliability, durability, and safety. They are equipped with advanced technology for communication, navigation, and other purposes, and are regularly maintained and serviced to ensure they are always in top condition.

Overall, the Bundeswehr's motorcycles play an important role in the German armed forces' reconnaissance and transportation capabilities, particularly in difficult terrain where other vehicles may not be able to operate. They also play a role in training military personnel in motorcycle driving techniques, which is an important skill for many military roles.

Src/Read More

German cold war trucks

The MAN (Maschinenfabrik Augsburg Nürnberg) 630 L2 is a military truck produced in West Germany from 1952 to 1972. The L1 and L3 were both civilian variants. It was widely used by the German military, as well as by Belgium. The truck was designed to be a versatile, all-terrain vehicle that could carry troops, supplies, and equipment over rough terrain. The MAN 630 L2 had a 6-cylinder, 7.7-liter diesel engine that produced 125 horsepower and a top speed of 60 km/h (37 mph). It had a payload capacity of 5 tons and could tow a trailer weighing up to 7 tons. The truck also had a 4x4 drive system and a 5-speed manual transmission. It was also to replace the Ford G398 in production postwar.


The Mercedes LG 315/46, which succeeded to the Mercedes-Benz L 4500 still produced postwar (1939) was designed as a replacement and produced by Mercedes-Benz from 1958 to 1964. It was a medium-duty commercial and military vehicle that was primarily used for hauling goods and materials over short to medium distances. The LG 315/46 was powered by a 5.7-liter diesel engine that produced 125 horsepower and a top speed of 70 km/h (43 mph). It had a payload capacity of 3.5 tons and a wheelbase of 3.46 meters (11.4 feet). The truck also had a 4x2 drive system and a 4-speed manual transmission.

Despite being produced for a relatively short time, the Mercedes LG 315/46 was a popular and highly-regarded truck. It was known for its reliability, durability, and versatility, and was widely used by businesses and transportation companies throughout Europe. Today, the truck is a rare and highly-coveted collector's item, prized for its unique styling and historical significance. 1
Hanomag AL28 LKW of the Bundeswehr

The Hanomag AL 28 was produced by the German automaker Hanomag from 1953 to 1967 (L28 from 1951). It was designed a the replacement for the popular Opel Blitz. A popular commercial vehicle that was used for a variety of purposes, including as a delivery van, a camper van, passenger van, minibus and pickup, powered by a range of petrol and diesel engines, ranging from 1.5 to 3.3 liters in displacement. The top speed of the AL 28 was around 90 km/h (56 mph), and it had a payload capacity of up to 1.5 tons. It was also used by the Bundeswehr but in specialized roles.

One notable feature of the Hanomag AL 28 was its advanced for its time design, with a unibody construction and a front-wheel-drive layout. An immediate postwar truck later sold as Lloyd EL3000, with an electric drive, derived from the wartime Borgward B 3000, a 6600 lb or 3000 kg mid class truck. From 1950 it was produced from Hastedt, a district of Bremen-Hemelingen as the Lloyd EL3000 with a slow output of about 30 vehicles yearly, mostly used by the British Army of the Rhine (BOAR). It had a range of 70 km (43 miles) loaded, 100 km (62 miles) unladen, used 7.50×20" tires, had a 5m turning radius and a electrical-induced hydraulic brake from Lloyd Dynamowerke Bremen. Albeit it was designed for the Bundeswehr there is little evidence or data on its use by the latter. 1

The Henschel HS 115 was a light to medium-duty truck produced by the German manufacturer Henschel from 1951 to 1958. It was designed as a successor to the Henschel HS 100, which was produced before World War II. The HS 115 was available in various body styles, including flatbed trucks, box trucks, and pickups. It was powered by a range of petrol and diesel engines, with displacements ranging from 2.5 to 4.6 liters. The top speed of the HS 115 was around 80 km/h (50 mph), and it had a payload capacity of up to 2.5 tons.

One notable feature of the Henschel HS 115 was its robust construction, with a strong ladder frame chassis and a rugged suspension system. It was also known for its reliability and durability, making it a popular choice among businesses and individuals. Today, the Henschel HS 115 is a sought-after collector's item, prized for its unique styling and historical significance. It is often restored and used as a vintage truck, or as a display vehicle at automotive shows and events.
The MAN KAT-1 is a series of military off-road trucks produced by the German company MAN Truck & Bus AG. It was developed in the 1970s and was primarily designed for use by the German military, but has also been exported to other countries. The KAT-1 is a 8x8 all-wheel-drive truck with a payload capacity of up to 10 tons. It features a cab-over-engine design, with a turbocharged diesel engine located under the cab. The truck is equipped with a manual or semi-automatic transmission, and has a top speed of around 80 km/h (50 mph).

One of the key features of the KAT-1 is its excellent off-road capabilities, thanks to its high ground clearance, independent suspension, and differential locks on all axles. It can traverse difficult terrain, including mud, snow, and rocky terrain, making it ideal for military applications in challenging environments. The KAT-1 has been used by the German military in a variety of roles, including as a troop carrier, logistics vehicle, mobile command center, and recovery vehicle. It has also been exported to other countries and used in peacekeeping missions and disaster relief efforts. Today, the KAT-1 remains a popular choice for military and civilian applications around the world, thanks to its robust design, excellent off-road capabilities, and versatility.

The SLT 50 Elefant is a heavy-duty military tractor unit produced by the German company Faun in collaboration with Mercedes-Benz. It was designed primarily for use as a heavy hauler in military operations, particularly for moving tanks and other heavy equipment. The SLT 50 Elefant is a 10x8 tractor unit, powered by a Mercedes-Benz diesel engine that produces 1,000 horsepower and 3,700 Nm of torque. It is equipped with a ZF automatic transmission and has a top speed of 80 km/h (50 mph). The truck also features an advanced suspension system that provides excellent stability and maneuverability, even with heavy loads.

The SLT 50 Elefant is capable of towing loads of up to 200 tons, making it one of the most powerful and capable military tractor units in the world. It has been used in a variety of military operations, including in Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Norway.

In addition to its military applications, the SLT 50 Elefant has also been used in civilian applications, such as in the oil and gas industry for transporting large equipment and machinery. Overall, the SLT 50 Elefant is a powerful and versatile heavy-duty truck that has proven its reliability and durability in a variety of applications.
Liebherr 4x4 FKL (Crane) Variant

Two main models were used by the Bundeswehr such as the Liebherr 15t mil glw 6x6 truck, which is used by the Bundeswehr for a variety of transport tasks. This truck is powered by a Liebherr diesel engine and has a payload capacity of 15 tons. It is equipped with a 6x6 drive system, allowing it to operate on rough terrain.

Another example is the Liebherr 100t glw 8x8 truck, which is also used by the Bundeswehr for heavy-duty transport tasks. This truck has a payload capacity of 100 tons and is powered by a Liebherr diesel engine with a power output of 680 horsepower. It is equipped with an 8x8 drive system, making it suitable for use in off-road environments.

Introduced in 1988, the LX was designed as a light weight truck for the the Bundeswehr, C-130 Hercules transportable, with good cross country mobility. Based on the M2000 medium weight commercial truck chassis it was militarized as required and available in 4x4 and 6x6 chassis and 3.5- to 10-tonnes payload capable. On three axle chassis the rear ones are sprung individually by leaf springs, improving off-road mobility. Its modular military cab is a 3-seats with roof hatch for a MG, and is offered a small block diesel engine with its cooling pack behind the cab. The FX was introduced in 1990 but production ceased and from 2004 it was replaced by the MAN TG-based HX range.

German cold war staff/recce cars

Mercedes G-Type Wolf of the Bundeswehr

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, also known as the G-Wagon or Geländewagen, is a multi-purpose off-road vehicle that has been in production since 1979. Originally designed as a military vehicle, it has since become a popular luxury SUV for civilian use. The G-Class is known for its rugged design and off-road capabilities, with features such as all-wheel drive, differential locks, and high ground clearance. It is available in a range of models, including a four-door SUV and a two-door convertible.

The G-Class has been used by a number of militaries around the world, including the German Bundeswehr, which uses it as a multi-purpose vehicle for transport, reconnaissance, and command and control. The Bundeswehr's G-Class vehicles are equipped with features such as a winch, all-terrain tires, and a communications system, among other specialized equipment.

In addition to its military applications, the G-Class is also popular with civilian drivers who appreciate its luxury features and iconic design. The latest models of the G-Class include advanced technology such as a digital dashboard, touchscreens, and driver assistance systems. Overall, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class is a versatile and capable off-road vehicle that has a long history of use in military and civilian applications. Its rugged design, off-road capabilities, and advanced technology make it a popular choice for a wide range of drivers.
VW Iltis

The Volkswagen Iltis is a military vehicle that was designed and produced in the 1970s and 1980s by Volkswagen in collaboration with the German Bundeswehr. The Iltis was developed as a replacement for the aging DKW Munga and was used by a number of militaries around the world, including the German Bundeswehr, Canadian Armed Forces, and Belgian Armed Forces. The Iltis is a light-duty, all-wheel drive vehicle that was designed for use in off-road and rugged terrain. It has a compact design, with a short wheelbase and high ground clearance, making it highly maneuverable in difficult terrain. The Iltis is powered by a four-cylinder, water-cooled gasoline engine that produces around 75 horsepower.

One of the most unique features of the Iltis is its all-wheel drive system, which is a predecessor to Volkswagen's modern 4Motion system. The Iltis' all-wheel drive system features a self-locking center differential that can be manually locked, allowing for improved traction in off-road conditions. In addition to its military applications, the Iltis was also used by civilians, particularly in Canada where it was sold as a civilian vehicle. The Iltis was known for its durability and off-road capabilities, and it was particularly popular with outdoor enthusiasts.
VW 181

The Volkswagen Type 181, also known as the Volkswagen Thing or Safari in some markets, is a small, open-top, four-door, all-terrain vehicle that was produced by Volkswagen from 1968 to 1983. The Type 181 was based on the Volkswagen Beetle and was designed to be a versatile and durable vehicle for military and civilian use. The Type 181 was originally developed for the German military and was used by the Bundeswehr as a light-duty transport and liaison vehicle. It was also used by a number of other militaries around the world, including the US military, which used it in Vietnam. The Type 181 was appreciated for its off-road capabilities, compact size, and reliability.

The civilian version of the Type 181 was marketed as a fun and adventurous vehicle for outdoor enthusiasts. Its unique and rugged design made it popular with beachgoers, campers, and hikers. The Type 181 featured a removable soft-top roof, fold-down windshield, and all-terrain tires, making it suitable for use in a wide range of environments. The Type 181 was powered by a rear-mounted, air-cooled, flat-four engine that produced around 46 horsepower. It had a four-speed manual transmission and all-wheel drive, with a manually operated differential lock for improved traction in off-road conditions.

Overall, the Volkswagen Type 181 was a versatile and durable vehicle that was appreciated for its off-road capabilities and unique design. Its military origins and rugged features made it a popular choice for a wide range of civilian users, from outdoor enthusiasts to beachgoers. Today, the Type 181 is considered a classic and is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
1964 Vehicle showcased on the Zandvooort track

The DKW Munga is a military vehicle that was produced by Auto Union (now known as Audi) from 1956 to 1968. The Munga, which stands for "Mehrzweck-UNiversal-Geländewagen mit Allradantrieb" (multi-purpose universal off-road vehicle with all-wheel drive), was developed as a replacement for the Volkswagen Kubelwagen, which was used by the German military during World War II. The Munga was a small, lightweight, all-wheel drive vehicle that was designed for use in off-road and rugged terrain. It was powered by a two-stroke, three-cylinder, water-cooled engine that produced around 44 horsepower. The Munga had a top speed of around 50 miles per hour and a range of around 250 miles.

One of the most unique features of the Munga was its all-wheel drive system, which was designed to be used in both two-wheel drive and all-wheel drive modes. The Munga's all-wheel drive system featured a self-locking center differential that could be manually locked, allowing for improved traction in off-road conditions. The Munga was used by a number of militaries around the world, including the German Bundeswehr, which used it as a multi-purpose vehicle for transport, reconnaissance, and command and control. The Munga was also used by civilian organizations, particularly in Germany, where it was used by the police and fire departments.

Specialized Vehicles

General Dynamics M3 Amphibious Rig

The M3 Amphibious Rig is a self-propelled, amphibious bridging vehicle that is used for the projection of tanks and other vehicles across water obstacles. It was designed in 1982, but only introduced from 1999.

WW1 Vehicles

Allied ww2 Vehicles

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Axis Trucks

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Sd.Kfz 2, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11 were half-tracks designed just before the war as prime movers, to carry supplies, ammunition, personal, and tow artillery. Many were also converted during the war as armored versions carrying AA FLAK guns (Flakvierling, 37 mm, or the legendary 88 mm Rheinmetall als used as tank hunters), or were converted as nebelwerfer (rocket launching armored vehicles). They were built by Hanomag, Steyr, Mercedes-Benz, Bussing and many other manufacturers until 1945, over 20,000 half-tracks.

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Cold War & Modern Vehicles

Modern Trucks