The THW received its 75th equipment carrier based on the Mercedes-Benz Atego in August 2025. According to Daimler Truck, the handover coincides with the THW's 75th anniversary. The anniversary vehicle was delivered to the Amberg local chapter.
Extensive order with expansion option
The total contract comprises 120 identical vehicles, which will be equipped by BINZ Automotive GmbH with a special body. According to the company, there is also the option to procure up to 60 additional vehicles.
Technical basis: Mercedes-Benz Atego
The new equipment carriers are based on the Mercedes-Benz Atego 1530 AF 4×4 model. The chassis is equipped
with a six-cylinder diesel engine delivering 220 kilowatts of power (299 hp). Thanks to all-wheel drive, differential locks and a water fording capability of 800 millimeters, the vehicle is usable in rugged terrain. The permissible gross vehicle weight is 16 tons with a payload of over 3.6 tons, distributed across the front and rear axles. A hydraulic winch with a pulling force of 50 kilonewtons forward is standard. Through a redirect, the pulling force to the rear doubles to 100 kilonewtons, while the rope length is halved to 25 meters.
Aluminium construction with high functionality
For more than 85
years, BINZ has been active in special-purpose vehicle construction. The company manufactures the body for the THW in Plauen and relies on an aluminium structure that provides corrosion protection and durability. The design with aluminium profiles reduces the unladen weight and increases the payload of the 16-tonner. In the box body, numerous custom storage systems are integrated. For the first time, a docking cabin in the largest available configuration to date was installed behind the driver's cab as a group driver's cab. It offers seven seats with a 70-centimeter seating distance to the opposite side, thus providing greater comfort
on long journeys.
Deployment spectrum in disasters and major damage situations
The equipment carriers are designed for a broad range of deployments according to THW. They are to be used in building collapses, fires, floods, earthquakes and other major damage scenarios. On board there is a portable power generator, hydraulic heavy equipment, pump and hose systems as well as materials for bracing and securing. Equipment for patient transport and personal protective equipment are also integrated. With this, the rescue groups of the local associations at home and abroad can comprehensively perform their tasks in technical and logistical civil protection.
