Brit bruiser’s US Army call-up

Rugged Hummer rival is ready for action on the front line.

Auto Express Car Reviews

28th April 2008

If a Hummer’s not tough enough, check out this mean-looking off-roader! The eight-tonne bruiser is a British-built prototype which could eventually see action as the replacement for the US Army’s legendary HUMVEE military vehicle.

It’s called the BAE Navistar Proto-type, and is as wide as the roadgoing Hummer H1, but is longer for added troop carrying capability.

It features a V-shaped underbody, designed to deflect mine blasts and prevent components penetrating the cockpit. Inch-thick armoured body panels provide protection from bullets, grenades and bombs.

Other equipment includes height-adjustable air-suspension with 43cm travel, all-wheel-drive and heavy-duty run-flat tyres. The Navistar is built on an ultra modern modular platform, so all the electrics, powertrain and armoured panels are easily interchangeable.

British-based military engineering giant BAE Systems is one of seven firms that are competing for the lucrative contract with the US armed forces to make the HUMVEE replacement. Proposals are due to be presented by 14 April, and the winner will be commissioned to produce an entire range of Joint Light Tactical Vehicles for safely transporting troops in war zones.