• The Mercedes-Benz Atego is the base vehicle for more than 100 new equipment trucks for the German Federal Agency for Technical Relief (THW)
• BINZ Automotive GmbH produces the individual superstructure
• The new equipment trucks support operations such as floods, fires or earthquakes

Leinfelden-Echterdingen/Plauen – The German Federal Agency for Technical Relief (THW) recently received the 75th Atego equipment truck based on the Mercedes-Benz Atego – in line with the 75th anniversary of the German Federal Agency for Technical Relief. The anniversary vehicle went to the local association Amberg. As part of the order, 120 identical vehicles with special superstructures will be delivered by BINZ Automotive GmbH; the THW can order up to 60 additional vehicles if required. Equipment trucks are the central emergency vehicles for the THW rescue teams and are therefore equipped with all-wheel drive, high payload, and storage space for extensive material.

In close cooperation between Daimler Truck and BINZ, a complete vehicle was developed for the THW that combines high transport capacity, modern accommodation for the crew, and tactical versatility. The Atego equipment truck is thus an important component in strengthening the operational capability of the disaster relief organization.

Mercedes-Benz Atego: reliable basic vehicle

The new equipment trucks are based on the Mercedes-Benz Atego 1530 AF 4×4.
The chassis has a 6-cylinder diesel engine with 220 kW (299 hp). Thanks to all-wheel drive, differential locks and a fording capability of 800 millimeters, the vehicle can also be used in rough terrain. The permissible gross vehicle weight is 16 tons with a payload of over 3.6 tons, distributed over the single-tyred front axle and the twin-tyred rear axle. For additional autonomy or operations that require recovery, a hydraulic cable winch with 50 kN tensile force is installed. A change in direction doubles the tensile force towards the rear to 100 kN, while simultaneously halving the cable length to 25 meters.

Superstructure by BINZ: Spacious interior for team and technology

BINZ has been involved in special vehicle construction for over 85 years. As one of the leading enterprises in the industry, BINZ develops highly customized vehicles for rescue services, fire brigades, police and the mobile medical technology unit. The superstructure concepts are developed in close consultation with the customer and are realized individually and precisely to fit. This also applies for THW’s new equipment trucks, which BINZ manufactures in Plauen.

The aluminum structure of the body ensures durability and anti-corrosion protection for the demanding operations of rescue teams. The aluminum profile design results in a reduced dead weight and a high payload of the 16-ton truck. The body features numerous tailor-made stowage systems for the crew’s equipment.

For the THW order, a so-called docking cabin was installed for the first time in the largest version to date as a group cabin behind the driver’s cab. It offers seven seats at a distance of seventy centimeters from the opposite seat. This means increased comfort and more legroom on longer journeys and when wearing work clothing. USB sockets on the bench seats, grab handles, three-point seat belts and helmet and two-way radio holders for all seats ensure modern standards in the crew cab. Communication between the driver’s cab and the crew compartment takes place via a connecting tunnel.

Improved operational readiness

As the central emergency vehicle of the THW rescue teams, the new Atego equipment truck is designed for many potential civil protection scenarios. Building damages, bridge collapses, floods, fires or earthquakes can be combated in Germany and abroad. In addition to extensive tools for wood, metal and rock work, a portable power generator and extensive pump and hose systems are also on board. Security systems, support devices, materials for ambulance transport and personal protective equipment for helpers also have their firm and safe place in the BINZ superstructure. This means that the rescue team, which is part of the THW in each local association, can bring material, electricity and light to the scene of the incident and provide the best possible support. With the Atego equipment trucks, trained helpers can lift large loads, create access to deployment sites, secure houses at risk of collapse or rescue people in floods – in short: they can fulfill their technical and logistical civil protection tasks better.