- Australia’s Supacat has developed a Toyota Hilux-based 6×6 truck for regional defense forces.
- The MUV is designed to be affordable and easy to maintain by utilizing off-the-shelf components.
- With a 3-ton payload capacity, this truck is suitable for both off-road and littoral operations.
Military vehicles are usually funded by taxpayers, so it only makes sense to offer some affordable options. Australian company Supacat has stepped up with a Hilux-based military truck that promises to keep costs down throughout its lifecycle.
Enter the MUV, short for Medium Utility Vehicle, which is built on a dual-cab chassis-cab version of the Toyota Hilux and packed with accessories. The standout feature? An extra set of wheels at the back, transforming it into a 6×6 powerhouse.
More: The 6×6 TAC-6 Is The Ultimate Toyota Land Cruiser 79
The three axles paired with grippy tires allow this truck to tackle tougher terrains while benefiting from Toyota’s reliable ladder-frame chassis. Supacat claims that the model is suitable for “off-road and littoral operations”, which explains the snorkel and off-road bumpers.
Additional accessories include a rugged bull bar at the front, extra LEDs complementing the halogen headlights, metal side steps, a GPS antenna, and a proper military wrap. The custom rear bed provides ample space for weapons and military equipment, neatly arranged in modular shelves and racks.
The modularity of the MUV means it can be easily reconfigured and updated when new technologies become available. Plus, its availability of parts and serviceability promise to make maintenance a breeze for regional defense forces. Affordability was the driving force behind its development, leading Supacat to utilize as many commercial-off-the-shelf components as possible.
With a payload capacity of 3 tons (6,614 pounds) and a gross vehicle mass rated at 6.5 tons (14,330 pounds), the MUV is no lightweight. While technical specifications are still under wraps, Supacat offers an upgrade for the 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine, which produces 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS) and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque in the standard Toyota Hilux. The engine can be paired with either a manual or automatic transmission.
Matt Grech, Supacat Head of Future Business, stated: “We believe the MUV will find favor with regional forces seeking to maximize capability while being able to support the product locally from existing resources and infrastructure.”
As reported by Drive.com.au, the Australian Defence Force recently announced the addition of the Polaris Dagor to its fleet, following the rejection of military-spec Toyota Land Cruiser 79 Series 6×6 trucks built by Queensland-based AEP Engineering. It remains to be seen if New South Whales-based Supacat will have better luck with its Hilux-based MUV.
