If you're in the market for a fuel-efficient logistics vehicle that can self-load and transport 13 tons of supplies in hostile territory, the MSV is for you. MSV stands for Maneuver Sustainment Vehicle, and is the result of several contracts between TARDEC's National Automotive Center and BAE Systems. It was created to fill the U.S. Army's Future Tactical Truck System (FTTS) new vehicle requirements, which include getting a longer range between fill-ups, and finding better ways to support troops out in the field with supplies. A key feature of the MSV is it allows the operator to load and unload cargo (flat racks) from the relative safety of the armored cab.
A 360-degree camera system, the latest communications equipment, and a remote-operated semi-robotic crane with boom-tip control make this possible. Even the trailer has the operator's safety in mind since it is self-powered and remotely controlled. The Caterpillar C9 8.8L diesel engine is rated at 450 hp and is combined in parallel with a 120 kW electric motor from UQM Technology. Compared to traditional transport vehicles, the MSV can travel more than twice as far on a tank of fuel. Power is transferred to the wheels via an Allison seven-speed transmission.
Army Scenarios Prepare for Hybrid Possibilities
The U.S. Army ran through the following scenarios to test the MSV's new features. One drill had the soldiers recover a downed vehicle at night. They used the MSV as a portable generator to shed some light on the situation since it provides 30kW of exportable power. Another scripted mission had the soldiers rescue a hostage by using the electric hybrid's silent mode.
MIL-SPEC
Horsepower: 450 hp
Range: 600 to 900 miles
Engine: Caterpillar C9 8.8L
Battery: 336 volt 3 kWh Cobasys NiMH
Transmission: Allison seven-speed automatic
Electric Motor/Generator: 120 kW produced by UQM
Suspension: Adjustable height between 14 and 18 inches of ground clearance.
 Pictured are the only two...  Pictured are the only two MSVs in existence. |  Notice how the windshield...  Notice how the windshield doesn't get splashed, thanks to the cab-forward design. |  The MSV allows soldiers to...  The MSV allows soldiers to load and unload flat racks without leaving the safety of the cab. The boom is remotely controlled and can drag 13 tons of equipment onto its bed with no problem. |