New high-mobility Unimog Model Range from Mercedes-Benz

Stuttgart, November 2002

The new high-mobility Unimog U 3000, U 4000 and U 5000 model range has been developed for difficult all-terrain operations in areas where roads and tracks are few and far between. It went into production in autumn 2002 at the new Unimog facility in Wörth, succeeding the heavy-duty Unimog U 1550 L, U 2150 L and U 2450 L range which was produced in Gaggenau until mid-year. With its superior off-road capabilities, the new Unimog model range is the natural choice for extreme-terrain operation and international security duties.

Its principal applications will be in fire-fighting - particularly in forested areas - in disaster aid, as a chassis for expedition vehicles and for carrying out service and maintenance work at out-of-the-way locations. It therefore ideally complements the Unimog U 300 to U 500 all-terrain implement carrier range first unveiled in spring 2000, which is used mainly by public services and municipal contractors, in the construction and energy industries and in intra-plant transport.

The new high-mobility Unimog U 3000 - U 5000 range combines the traditional Unimog virtues such as soundness, robustness, long life, reliability and the almost legendary four-wheel-drive concept with state-of-the-art engine and transmission technology and excellent ergonomics. More than ever before, outstanding operational reliability results in superior overall cost-effectiveness, with reduced maintenance costs and a high resale value.

The torsionally flexible ladder frame of the new high-mobility Unimog models, consisting of two Ushaped side members with welded tubular crossmembers, gives unimpeded flexing ability. Portal axles front and rear are standard, with differential locks, geared hubs, control arms, torque tubes, coil springs, telescopic shock absorbers and stabilisers. The allsteel cab with roof hatch is also available as a crewcab. Like the engine, transmission, platform and body, it is three-point-mounted and therefore follows every movement of the vehicle.

The new Unimog model range U 3000 to U 5000 is designed for permissible gross vehicle weights of up to 12.5 t (14.1 t for fire-fighting vehicles). It is powered by low-emission Euro 3 engines with output ratings from 110 kW (150 hp) to 160 kW (218 hp). The most powerful engine is a newly developed Mercedes-Benz 900-series unit now making its debut in the Unimog. This is the OM 924 LA, created by enlarging the displacement of the OM 904 LA four-cylinder turbodiesel engine. This 4.8 l unit develops its rated output of 160 kW (218 hp) at just 2200 rpm. Peak torque of 810 Nm is available at just 1200 rpm.

The Mercedes-Benz transmission with electronic-pneumatic Telligent gearshift (EPS) and pneumatically selectable four-wheel drive offers eight forward and six reverse gears. Optionally, an additional working/offroad range can also be fitted. The pre-selectable synchromesh reversing gear EQR ("Electronic Quick Reverse") makes it easier to change direction quickly and to "rock" the vehicle free in difficult terrain. Also optionally available is a single-circuit hydraulic system for implement operation. The new Unimog models are equipped as standard with a pneumatic/hydraulic dual-circuit brake system with disc brakes on all four wheels and 4-channel ABS which is disengageable in off-road terrain.