The Mercedes-Benz G-Class was born as a military vehicle, with the first civil version launched in 1979. Mercedes-Benz still builds army versions of the G-Class, and they are still being purchased by various military forces.
The latest armed forces to buy G-Class vehicles are those from Switzerland, which have chosen the G 300 CDI to replace the Puch 4189 PUCH 230 GE all-terrain vehicles. The G-Class models follow the same essential vehicle concept as the Puch, but are technologically more advanced.
The Swiss Army said it chose the Mercedes-Benz model after conducting tough tests where three rival contenders also participated. The army went for the G-Class 300 CDI as it was deemed to have well-proven, robust technology, components that are scaled down to the essentials and suitability for simple operation by soldiers.
Four sample vehicles were tested at sites that included trials on rough terrain in the area of mountain passes, low-temperature tests and tough deployment with troops.
About 75 percent of the planned procurement volume for Mercedes-Benz G-Class models will be made up of the 4-seater station wagon variant, with the chassis variant for shelter-type bodies making up the remaining 25 percent. G-Class models will be used to transport personnel and equipment throughout all areas of operations.
The Mercedes-Benz G 300 CDI is powered by a six-cylinder OM 642 diesel engine developing 181 hp (184 PS) at 3,800 rpm and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque from 1,600 to 2,800 rpm. The Gelandewagen can reach a top speed of 160 km/h (99 km/h) on surfaced road. The engine is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission.
With a ground clearance of 210 mm (8.2 in), the military variant of the G-Class has a fording capability of 600 mm (23.6 in). Its inclination gradient of 64 percent and maximum climbing gradient of 100 percent are possible thanks to the permanent all-wheel drive, standard-specification reduction gear and three differential locks.
By Dan Mihalascu
PHOTO GALLERY
