Although the Ultra AP looks like it was built on a different planet, you might be surprised to find out that it's based on a Ford Super Duty pickup. This concept vehicle was created at the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) and was sponsored by the Office of Naval Research. GTRI decided not to reinvent the wheel, and instead focused on designing a survivable crew capsule. The Ultra AP was unveiled to the public on September 12, 2005.
The main purpose of this vehicle was to put forth cutting-edge technology in an effort to counteract the improvised explosive devices (IED) attacks in Iraq. These technologies included lightweight, cost-effective armor, and a diamond-shaped passenger compartment engineered to deflect pressure waves caused by explosions. This configuration puts the soldiers the farthest distance away from the wheels. The lightweight body armor is made of layered aluminum, steel, Linex, and an advanced plastic and aluminum oxide mixture.
The Ultra AP's blast bucket...
The Ultra AP's blast bucket is set in the middle of the Super Duty chassis.
The placement of the cab (called the blast bucket by GTRI designers) is safer should a mine be set off by one of the tires. The seat positioning is also designed to increase survivability, since each of the four passengers sit with their backs to each other, giving them 360 degrees of visibility. Other safety features include rollover protection and on-board computers that integrate steering, suspension, and brakes to provide increased control of the vehicle.
The designers include Dave McLellan, a former Corvette chief engineer, scientists studying advanced materials from Georgia Tech Research Institute, and experts from NASCAR. DP
Mil-Spec
Chassis: '05 Ford F-350 Super Duty
Engine: 6.0L Power Stroke V-8 turbodiesel
Horsepower: 325 hp
Torque: 570 lb-ft
Fuel Type: JP-8
Transmission: Torque Shift 5R110W five-speed automatic
GVWR: 12,700 pounds
Tires: Michelin XZL 390/80R20
Wheels: Hutchinson double beadlocks
Front Axle: Dana 60 with coil springs
Rear Axle: Ford 10 1/2-inch with leaf springs