 The Mercedes-Benz
4x4 armoured personnel carrier is successfully being introduced into Africa through
a high profile contract. Dubbed as the ‘Al-Kaser’, this unique vehicle is armoured to armour piercing
ballistic level, carries between 10 and 12 persons, has been designed and built in South Africa for distribution
into Africa and the Middle East and is a ‘world first’.
The project commenced early in 2005. “Although an external project, this sizable contract will
be built in South Africa for export into Africa and the Middle East. The bodybuilder designed the vehicle in
accordance with the customer requirements and the initial technical specifications.
“The Mercedes-Benz 4x4 has undergone stringent off-road and severe obstacle maneuverability
tests at the Gerotek testing facilities in Pretoria West and has surpassed all expectations.
“The arduous and harsh conditions for which the vehicle is built confirms its suitability for this particular
contract.
The Mercedes-Benz is renowned for its agility, economy and reliability. The durable and low-maintenance engines and
the tried-and-trusted Telligent engine management system are in a class of their own. The Mercedes-Benz 4x4 off-road
vehicle, has a powerful 6 litre engine with a 5-speed Allison 2000 automatic transmission.
High performance is reached with figures of 0 – 80 km/h in 20 seconds with a governed top speed of 120 km/h -
vehicles of this size are geared to attain a top speed of 90 – 100 km/h.
Maneuvering harsh terrain is made easy with a turning circle of 14,9 metres, an incredible approach angle of 39
degrees, a departure angle of 32 degrees and the above average ground clearance of 320 mm. Coping with Africa’s
harshest of conditions is made light with single tyres and safety is enhanced with run-flat inserts.
 Compact dimensions of
5,800 mm length, 2,300 mm width and a height of 2,504 mm (excluding the turret) on a wheelbase
of 3,260 mm make it a superb handling and agile performer. Fitted with two fuel tanks of 130 litres each, they are
fully protected against ballistic fire and inflammable risks.
The ergonomic cab is a fully integrated armoured shell and is specially built on to the chassis. A Mercedes-Benz
integrated air conditioning system is a standard feature in the cab area with a further powerful air conditioner
included in the crew area for added comfort when the vehicle is stationary. In addition to the air conditioner,
the interior is covered in foam-backed vinyl to reduce the heat in the vehicle.
The door locks are tamperproof and is armour plated on the inside to stop penetration and the two-piece windscreen
comes with transparent armoured glass.
 The driver and co-driver
seats are complete with headrest and seat belts as standard and are fully adjustable
Mercedes-Benz designed seats. The increased interior width of the vehicle at 1,980 mm, allows for two
crew seats back to back, facing outwards. The interior height of 1,425 mm ensures that the crew are not cramped
and allows a higher seat base, which greatly increases leg and seating comfort when sitting for long periods.
“The versatile Mercedes-Benz 4x4 armoured personnel carrier is a sure winner, already proving
itself by winning two International awards.
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