Country of origin |
China |
Entered service |
? |
Configuration |
8x8 |
Cab seating |
1 + 5 men |
Dimensions and weight |
Weight (empty) |
1 750 kg |
Payload capacity |
1 100 kg |
Length |
3.94 m |
Width |
1.55
m |
Height |
~ 1.5 m |
Height (top of roll-over bars) |
1.8 m |
Mobility |
Engine |
diesel |
Engine power |
87 hp |
Maximum road speed |
65 km/h |
Amphibious speed on water |
4 km/h |
Range |
~ 250 km |
Maneuverability |
Gradient |
60% |
Side slope |
40% |
Vertical step |
0.4 m |
Trench |
1.2 m |
Fording |
0.6 m / Amphibious |
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Recently a
number of Chinese 8x8 all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) appeared. First
militarized designs were observed in 2008. Most likely that all of
these vehicles are based on Canadian commercial Argo designs. One of
them is produced by Yiwu Xibeihu Special Vehicles. Sometimes it is
referred as the Lynx. It seems
that the new all-terrain vehicle was developed in close cooperation
with the Chinese army. It is an 8 wheel-drive amphibious off-road
vehicle. This ATV has a bathtube-like design. It is constructed of
composite materials. It was significantly militarized comparing with
commercial Argo designs. Modifications include a strengthened body
and different top structure with storage space and weapon mounts.
Engine was relocated to the rear. The vehicle is in service with Chinese army,
marines and
some other paramilitary units. Such ATVs are typically used by
parachute brigades and special operation forces. This all-terrain
vehicle is proposed for export customers as the CS/VP4. It has been
exported to Venezuela, and possibly some other countries. South African National Defense Forces also use a
successful Gecko 8x8 ATV, which is also
based on Canadian Argo design.
The new
Chinese 8x8 all-terrain vehicle can be used for different roles,
including troop, cargo, equipment and weapon transport,
reconnaissance, resupply, or casualty evacuation. During airborne
and special forces operations this vehicle can be landed by
helicopters and briefly redeploy from landing zones to firing
positions.
The cargo space at the
rear can be used to carry troops, personal equipment or ammunition.
Payload capacity is 1 100 kg.
Seating is provided for
the driver and 5 passengers. This all-terrain vehicle can tow light
artillery pieces.
There is a
mount for general purpose or heavy machine gun, or alternatively a
40 mm automatic grenade launcher. A version of this ATV has been
observed, armed with multiple launch artillery rocket systems, or
even a 120 or 122 mm gun.
The new
Chinese ATV is powered by a small turbocharged diesel engine,
developing 87 hp.
Maximum road speed is
65 km/h. Maximum range on fuel is up to 250 km, obviously
depending on terrain.
These all-terrain vehicles can travel over all kinds of
cross-country terrain, including forests, swamps and sand. Tracks
can be fitted for travelling over ice and snow. Vehicle is fitted
with a self-recovery winch.
This
all-terrain vehicle is amphibious with 200 or 300 kg of cargo. On
water it is propelled by its wheels. Amphibious speed on water is 4
km/h.
This ATV can
be lifted internally or underslung by helicopters. It fits inside
the Chinese
Mi-8/Mi-17 helicopters. It will easily
fit inside tactical military cargo aircraft. Furthermore it can be
airdropped using a special parachute platform.
Variants
CS/VP4 is an
export version. This vehicle has been exported to Venezuela. A first
batch of over 20 vehicles was delivered in 2017. Also it is possible
that the CS/VP4 was exported to some other countries.
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