The new Iveco Defense Veichle Military Utility Vehicle (MUV) SPECIAL FORCES was presented during the Egyptian EDEX 2021 show which was held in Cairo in December 2021. The vehicle was born from the collaboration between the Italian car manufacturer and the Dutch Duch Military Vehicle (DMV) company specializing in superstructures.
The two companies have already collaborated in the development of the MUV ANACONDA vehicle adopted by the Dutch Marines in 46 units in 2019.
The SPECIAL FORCES version comes with a tarpaulin rear body suitable for accommodating soldiers sitting on 10 seats. The windshields are foldable and the structure can be modified in the field.
The MUV is the result of the Iveco vast experience in the sector of light vehicles, highlighted by the extraordinary commercial success of its predecessor, the M40E15-WM, which has sold more than 18,000 units worldwide over the last 30 years.
With three options of GVW, up to 7 tons, the MUV is designed to offer a maximum payload of 4 tons. VAN and crew-cab (single and double) configurations are designed to accommodate every possible requirement, and a maximum of 14+2 personnel with equipment can be transported and rapidly deployed. The offering is broad and diverse to suit a range of different missions.
It can be equipped with a choice of FPT Industrial engines featuring leading EURO VI technology developing 175 hp, or EURO III technology generating either 146 hp or 175 hp. The engines are specially designed to operate in demanding environments, including extreme temperatures ranging from -32°C to +49°C. They can be coupled with either an FPT six-speed manual gearbox or a eight-speed automatic with torque converter.
Mobility is enhanced by a permanent 4×4 drive with front/rear lockable differential and a PTO equipped transfer case, as well as with the independent front suspension system with torsion bar, which ensures balanced off-road mobility, handling and reliability. ESP and ABS further enhance performance and runflat options are also available. The electrical system is designed for both civil and military use, with 12V and 24V circuits and a double battery for the main switch. NATO compliant sockets and blackout systems have been installed.
The MUV is available in both left and right hand drive in six different wheelbase configurations, from 3080 mm to 4175 mm. The result is an extremely mobile and agile vehicle, capable of operating across a wide range of demanding terrains and climates. Other features include a high level of gradeability on extended steep slopes, as well as the capacity of fording depths of 650mm.
The MUV is also available for civilian use as it fully complies with the required safety and environmental regulations through features such as ergonomic seats, good soundproofing, seatbelts, airbag system and Euro VI diesel engines. The vehicle can be used as a rescue vehicle, a medical asset, for snow clearance, as a light recovery vehicle or by the emergency unit command post.