Leinfelden-Echterdingen / Bonn – The German Federal Agency for Technical Relief (THW) is receiving 66 new highly off-road-capable emergency response vehicles based on the Unimog U 5025 for civil protection purposes. One of the key features is a more powerful engine with 21 hp more compared to the previous series production vehicle. The Unimog base vehicle is manufactured in Wörth am Rhein, while the bodies are built by F&B Nutzfahrzeug-Technik GmbH in nearby Hagenbach in the Palatinate region.

The vehicles are scheduled to be delivered in stages to the 66 regional THW offices throughout 2026 and will be used in particular for flood situations, evacuations, and operations in difficult terrain.

Sabine Lackner, THW President: “The devastating floods in the summer of 2021 following heavy rainfall have shown how important off-road capable vehicles are in flood response to quickly reach people in need. With the powerful new Unimog U 5025 from Daimler Truck for all our 66 logistics units, THW is expanding its civil protection capabilities and strengthening its nationwide capacity for handling cargo logistics as well as rescue operations.”

Daniel Zittel, Chief Sales Officer Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks: “Together with our partner F&B, we are delivering the right vehicles to the THW to further enhance operational capability in civil protection. The Unimog will be deployed particularly in crisis situations where difficult access conditions require rapid assistance and support. This project underlines the importance of reliable technology and close cooperation for civil protection in Germany.”

Standardised vehicle concept for a wide range of mission scenarios

The vehicles are designed as a unified platform and feature standardised equipment depending on the mission profile. This includes blue light systems at the front and rear, in-cab radio equipment, a reversing camera, as well as additional mission-critical components such as fire extinguishers, protective grilles for lighting systems, and a hydraulic system. A civil protection emblem on the doors clearly identifies the vehicles as assets of the civil protection system.

Focus on off-road capability

The Unimog U 5025 has been specifically designed for demanding operational conditions. With a fording capability of up to 1,200 mm, axle articulation of up to 500 mm, and ground clearance of 480 mm under the axle differential thanks to portal axles, the vehicle can also operate in extremely difficult terrain. These characteristics enable driving through flooded areas as well as forest and woodland environments. The combination of high articulation and ground clearance ensures operational capability even when encountering unexpected obstacles. Power is provided by a four-cylinder OM 934 engine with 252 hp and 1,000 Nm of torque. Compared to the previous standard model, this represents an increase of 21 hp.

Robust technology for extreme conditions

The vehicle features a torsionally flexible frame design with portal axles and enclosed drive shafts, making it suitable for operation under extreme conditions or in water. This robust construction, combined with an underbody protection plate, allows the Unimog to continue operating even after ground contact or contact with obstacles in rough terrain.

In addition to its strong off-road capability, urban usability was also taken into account. With an overall height of under 3,400 mm, the vehicle can generally also be used in urban deployment scenarios.

Flexible body with crane and interchangeable modules

The body combines a permanently installed flatbed with an integrated loader crane. The platform features integrated twist-locks for standardised 10-foot interchangeable containers, while removable side panels allow use as a flatbed platform. Two access ladders facilitate entry and can also be used for rescue of people and animals if required. The crane, a model from manufacturer HMF, is installed by conversion partner F&B and stabilised via a four-point outriggers system. Overall, the loading area enables flexible transport of various modules such as generators, pumps, or other mission equipment, making it adaptable to different operational requirements.

Continuity in cooperation

Recently, THW has already placed large-scale orders for Daimler Truck vehicles: the Mercedes-Benz Atego serves as the basis for more than 240 specialist equipment carrier vehicles that support operations such as floods, fires, and large-scale disasters, thereby contributing—like the new Unimog vehicles—to strengthening civil protection.

Daimler Truck and F&B Nutzfahrzeug-Technik share a long-standing, close partnership. F&B is known for high-quality conversions and outfitting of Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles and is part of the Daimler Truck Custom Tailored Trucks network.