If the SandCat was available to the public, it might just restart the sport utility craze. Who wouldn't want a Ford Super Duty-based SUV with a 116-inch wheelbase and a 19.7-foot turning radius? Let's not forget the most important part, which most early SUVs lacked-a diesel engine. The designers of the SandCat took advantage of all the positive aspects of the Super Duty. For example, the front suspension, front and rear axles, steering, and frame (shortened) are all from the Ford factory. Even the dash was left intact. This provides the new driver with a level of familiarity and shortens the time it takes for operator training. Oshkosh was also able to retain Ford's airbags and anti-lock brake system (ABS).
The SandCat is a vehicle for any mission because it comes in a variety of different configurations. Plasan Sasa, an Israeli company that creates armor for all kinds of vehicles, developed the overlapping armor shell found on the SandCat. Armor adds weight to the vehicle, which decreases payload. So depending on the assignment, the SandCat can add or shed layers to match the perceived danger level. Every SandCat comes standard with a V-shaped belly deflector. Its job is two-fold: first it collapses and absorbs the blast, then it directs the explosive force out the wheelwells. It's a common misconception that the blast itself, and the shrapnel that goes along with it, is what causes the most harm to passengers. According to Jack Reiff (Oshkosh SandCat Program Director) it is the vehicle's violent acceleration up into the air and then back down that causes the most harm from an explosion. That being the case, the SandCat has collapsible and suspended seats to lessen the intense acceleration created by the explosion. DP
Mil-Spec
Vehicle: Oshkosh SandCat
Based on: Ford F-550 Super Duty
Engine: 6.4L Power Stroke
Horsepower: 325 hp
Torque: 650 lb-ft
Transmission: 5R110
Transfer Case: NVG 273 (Two-speed with electronic shift)
Front Axle: Dana 60 (with ARB locker)
Rear Axle: Ford 10 1/2-inch (with limited-slip or ARB locker)
Suspension Front: Coil spring
Suspension Rear: Trailing arm (instead of leaf springs)
Tires: 285/70R19.5
Electric System: 200A 12V and 200A 24V
Dimensions
Passengers: Utility 4-5 person and transport 4-8 person
Length: 198 inches
Height: 88 inches
Width: 85 inches
Wheelbase: 116 inches
Ground Clearance: 13 inches
Fuel Capacity: 31.7 gallons
Curb Weight: 13,300 pounds
Payload Capacity: Utility 4,650 poundsand transport 3,650 pounds
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): 17,950 pounds
Maximum Governed Speed: 74.6 mph
Turning Radius: 19.7 feet
Approach Angle: 38 degrees
Departure Angle: 30 degrees
Options: Gunner protection kit, remote weapons station, fire suppression system, nuclear biological chemical (NBC) safety system, central tire inflation system, rearview camera, and external intercom system