“Is this an Unimog?”
It’s probably the most frequently asked question when someone approaches our Mercedes-Benz expedition truck.
So, what exactly is a Unimog?
The term “Unimog” is an acronym for the German phrase UNIversal MOtor Gerät. The word “Gerät” translates to “equipment” in English and can also refer to a device, machine, instrument, gear, or apparatus. The name was coined by German engineer Hans Zabel, who first wrote “Universal-Motor-Gerät” on one of the technical drawings for this groundbreaking vehicle.
The Unimog was designed to be a versatile, go-anywhere vehicle that could handle a wide range of tasks, from farming and forestry to off-road expeditions and heavy-duty industrial work. Today, it remains an icon of engineering, renowned for its durability, agility, and ability to traverse the most challenging terrains.
It’s no surprise that people often assume any robust and capable off-road truck must be a Unimog. But while our Mercedes-Benz expedition trucks share some of the same spirit and ruggedness, they are tailored for a very specific purpose: exploring the world in comfort and style.
The Unimog’s most distinctive design feature is its chassis, engineered for versatility and off-road performance. Here’s what sets it apart:
Chassis Design
=> Flexible Ladder Frame: The Unimog features a robust ladder frame that is designed for flexibility, allowing it to handle extreme terrain without compromising structural integrity.
=> Short Overhangs: These provide excellent approach and departure angles, enabling the Unimog to navigate steep inclines and obstacles with ease.
Portal Axles
A standout feature of the Unimog is its portal axles, which provide several key advantages:
=> Raised Axle Clearance: The tires’ centers are positioned below the axle centerline, giving the Unimog high ground clearance without requiring oversized tires.
=> Improved Obstacle Handling: This design allows the Unimog to clear obstacles such as boulders up to one meter in height with ease.
Suspension and Axle Movement
=> Coil-Sprung Beam Axles: These are supported by torque tubes and transverse links, allowing for an axle angle offset of up to 30°.
=> Vertical Wheel Movement: The suspension provides significant vertical travel, enabling the vehicle to maintain stability and traction over extremely uneven terrain.
Drive System
=> The classic Unimog is primarily a rear-wheel-drive vehicle, with the rear axle directly connected to the gearbox.
=> When front-wheel drive is engaged, both axles are locked simultaneously, ensuring equal torque distribution. However, this system lacks torque compensation, making it ideal for situations where maximum traction is required, such as off-road environments.
Unimog vs. Regular Commercial Trucks
Unimog
=> Purpose: Built for extreme off-road conditions.
=> Off-Road Capability: Unparalleled, thanks to features like portal axles, high ground clearance, and exceptional axle articulation.
=> Ideal Use Case: Overland expeditions with heavy off-road focus.
Regular Commercial Trucks (Mercedes-Benz NG/SK or LK Series)
For those who plan on spending more time on paved roads but still need off-road functionality, commercial trucks with 4WD are a great alternative:
=> Off-Road Features: Equipped with 4WD, differential locks, hi/lo gearing, and 46”–48” tires, offering off-road capabilities comparable to a Unimog.
=> Driver Comfort: Larger, more comfortable cabs with better sound insulation.
=> On-Road Performance: Superior to the Unimog, with higher cruising speeds and smoother handling.
=> Engines: Wider range of engine options, including:
=> 6L inline-6 engines (also used in the Unimog).
=> 11L V6 and 15L V8 engines, available naturally aspirated or with turbo and intercooler.
=> Output up to 500 horsepower.
=> Simplicity: No portal axles mean easier preparation and maintenance (e.g., no need for a bleeder kit).
Summary
=> Choose a Unimog if your focus is predominantly on extreme off-road use.
=> Opt for a commercial truck if you want a balance of on-road comfort and robust off-road capability. These trucks provide a more versatile solution for mixed-use travel with added comfort and power.
Unimog
NG/SK Class