Country of origin |
Sweden |
Entered service |
1964 |
Configuration |
Tracked |
Cab seating |
2 + 8 men |
Dimensions and weight |
Weight (empty) |
3.2 t |
Payload capacity |
1 t |
Length |
6.18 m |
Width |
1.76
m |
Height |
2.21 m |
Mobility |
Engine |
Vovlo B18 petrol |
Engine power |
82 hp |
Maximum road speed |
39 km/h |
Amphibious speed on water |
6.5 km/h |
Range |
200 km |
Maneuverability |
Gradient |
60% |
Side slope |
40% |
Vertical step |
1.1 m |
Trench |
3.6 m |
Fording |
Amphibious |
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The Bandvagn
202 or Bv 202 articulated all-terrain tracked carrier was developed
by Volvo for the Swedish Army. Production commenced in 1964 and
ceased in 1981. This all-terrain carrier was purchased by Sweden,
Canada, Finland, the Netherlands, Norway and the United Kingdom. It
is also referred as the Snowcat. It
still remains operational with some of these countries. The Bv 202
was employed in Arctic, Antarctica, as well as Middle East.
This
articulated all-terrain tracked carrier was designed to transport
troops, cargo and equipment through difficult terrain, snow and boglands in the
northern parts of Sweden. This twin-unit articulated tracked vehicle
can carry 10 troops or 1 000 kg of cargo. Front unit is fully
enclosed, while the rear unit is covered with bows and canvas cover.
The front
unit contains engine and gearbox. Initial version (Mk.1) was powered
by a Volvo B18 1.8-liter petrol engine, developing 82 hp. Later
version (Mk.2) was fitted with a more powerful Volvo B20 2.0-liter
petrol engine, developing 97 hp. These were a standard car engines.
Both engines are coupled with manual gearboxes. Power is provided both to the front and rear unit tracks. The front
unit accommodates driver and commander.
The rear
unit is connected via an articulated joint which is also used for
steering. It gives great flexibility in all axles and extremely good
maneuverability. It has bench seats and carries 8 troops or cargo. It can also be
adapted for other applications.
The Bv 202
has incredible mobility over rough terrain. Vehicle uses wide tracks
and has lees ground pressure than a skier, that allows it to go over
snow and marshes. This
all-terrain tracked carrier is fully amphibious without preparation. On water it is
propelled by its tracks.
Variants of
the Bv 202 include a Bv 203
mobile radio communication vehicle.
Production
of the Volvo Bv 202 ceased in 1981 and it has been succeeded by a
more capable Hagglunds
Bv 206.
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