Zimbru 2000

   The Zimbru 2000 (European Bison) armored personnel carrier was developed by Romanian Romarm. The Zimbru 2000 is a further development of the B33 Zimbru 8x8 armored personnel carrier, which is in service with Romanian Army. The B33 is essentially the Russian BTR-80 APC, modified to meet local requirements. Development of the Zimbru 2000 is complete, however as of late 2008 it received no production orders.

   The Zimbru 2000 is almost identical to the B33, but has a raised roofline to provide greater internal volume.

   Vehicle is armed with 14.5-mm heavy machine gun and coaxial 7.62-mm machine gun. It is also proposed with Rafael 25-mm or Rheinmetall 30-mm remotely controlled weapon stations.

   Front arc provides protection against 12.7-mm rounds. All-round protection is against 7.62-mm rounds and artillery shell splinters. Vehicle is fitted with NBC protection and automatic fire suppression systems.

   Vehicle retains entrance and exit hatches of the previous B33, but has added doors at the rear of the hull. A number of firing ports are provided for the troops.

   The Zimbru 2000 is powered by a new Deutz BF 6M 1013 turbocharged diesel engine, developing 260 hp. This APC is fitted with a central tyre inflation system. Vehicle is fully amphibious. On water it is propelled by a single waterjet.

Variants

   Saur-1 armored personnel carrier, previously referred as Zimbru 2006. It is a further development of the Zimbru 2000 with completely redesigned hull. The first prototype was completed in 2006. The Saur-1 was tested by the Romanian Army, but failed to impress. Romanian MoD purchased MOWAG Piranha III C APCs instead.