Mercedes-Benz Atego in operation for the Technical Assistance Agency.

Vehicles used by the Technical Assistance Agency must have certain properties. On the Mercedes-Benz Atego, the chassis, body and equipment are cleverly coordinated with each other to create a reliable tool for rescue workers. It doesn't just work in theory, but in practice too: firm plans are already in place to put 120 Atego-based equipment vehicles into operation, with scope for an additional 60 on top of that.

Atego as carrier vehicle.

The Mercedes-Benz Atego 1530 AF 4×4 is a carrier vehicle with a 6-cylinder diesel engine and an output of 220 kW (299 hp). All-wheel drive, locks and 800 mm fording all help keep the vehicle moving safely off-road. With this equipment, the permissible gross vehicle weight is 16 t with a payload of over 3.6 t. With its twin-tyred rear axle, the vehicle offers better traction and more even weight distribution. For challenging operations such as recovery, a hydraulic cable winch with 50 kN of tractive force is installed forwards. Clever deflection doubles the power of the winch to the rear to 100 kN with 25 m of cable.

Photo and cover image: © BINZ Automotive GmbH

Behind the driver’s cab is the largest version of the docking cab - it forms the group cab. This offers seven comfortable seats for the response team. Grab handles and three-point seat belts provide stability, and holders for helmets and radios are also available in every seat. With the generous seat spacing and extras such as USB sockets, the crew cab more than adequately meets modern standards of comfort.

Photo: © BINZ Automotive GmbH

Setup with system.

BINZ Automotive GmbH develops the body in Plauen in close cooperation with THW to make sure that it is perfectly aligned with recovery teams' everyday tasks. The aluminium structure provides long-term protection against corrosion. At the same time, together with the profile design, it helps keep the vehicle's dead weight low. A tailor-made system helps keep the box body tidy. Every part has its place - arranged so that it's easily accessible.

The result: a fine-tuned overall package that works excellently, shortens distances and noticeably relieves the burden on the crew, both on the journey to as well as on the job site.

Tasks and effect in use.

The equipment truck is considered to be the central vehicle for rescue teams. It is designed for many events such as collapses, floods, fires, earthquakes and major disasters. Always on hand: tool for machining wood, metal and stone. A portable generator feeds equipment, a large hydraulic unit lifts and separates heavy parts. Pumps and hoses move water. Securing devices and supports are also on board, as well as equipment for ambulance transport and personal protective equipment. Rescue teams bring materials, power and light to the scene –and help save people in the process!

The close cooperation between Daimler Truck, BINZ and THW has resulted in an overall concept that combines high transport capacity, a modern workspace for the team and a lot of clever features: the Atego implement truck.

Mercedes-Benz Atego in operation for the Technical Assistance Agency.

Atego as carrier vehicle.

Setup with system.

Tasks and effect in use.

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