By combining two available subsystems, Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles (RMMV) and Slovakia’s CSM Industry have collaborated to create the new HX 8×8 EXCAVATOR multipurpose vehicle. RMMV contributed the 8×8 chassis from the HX series for mobility. The military-off-the-shelf vehicle is designed for the toughest military operations and offers excellent mobility even in demanding terrain, Rheinmetall describes the vehicle. The company sees combat engineer and disaster relief forces as potential users.
The vehicle, which weighs 28 tonnes including crane, is powered by a 387 kW engine. According to Rheinmetall, it can reach a top speed of 90 km/h on the road. Overcoming gradients of up to 60 per cent and fording waters up to 1.5 m deep, the all-wheel-driven vehicle thus can reach almost any deployment site thanks to its comparatively low weight.
For military requirements, the vehicle can be fitted with a STANAG-compliant, protective-ventilated cabin, which Rheinmetall offers under the name Integrated Armoured Cabin, or it can be prepared for equipping. In addition, a remote-controlled weapon station could be integrated. The total weight then increases by about two tonnes to 30 tonnes.
The UDS 214 excavator superstructure from the Slovakian crane and excavator manufacturer CSM Industry was placed on the chassis in such a way that it can be rotated 360 degrees. The telescopic arm can be extended to a length of up to 14.60 metres, writes Rheinmetall. It can be used with various tools – not only excavator shovels but also hooks or hydraulic drum cutters (for making round, deep holes).
Used as a makeshift crane, the HX 8×8 EXCAVATOR can lift loads of up to 7.5 tonnes.
