Mercedes-Benz » Sd.Kfz.6

Half-tracked artillery tractor Sd.Kfz.6 (models DB L5/L7/L8) with a pulling force of 5 tons was developed by german designers of Buessing-NAG and Daimler-Benz companies in the early 1930's. It was used to transport artillery units on highways or in off-road conditions. Production of the new vehicle was launched in 1935 and lasted until 1943 on the factories of Buessing-NAG and Daimler-Benz. The machine had half-tracked mover, which increased rough-terrain performance of the vehicle. The transporter had six wheels from each side, mounted in checker way. Front driving wheels had caterpillar pull mechanism. Behind the driver's cab, which was separated from the rear by a low partition, there was a place for 6-7 people. An awning could be open over the body to protect from rain and snow. Crew of the vehicle consisted of 1 driver and 6-14 passengers (depending on a version). Artillery tractor Sd.Kfz.6/1 had a body with a compartment with ammunition for towed guns. The vehicles for Corps of Engineers (PF 10, PF 11 and PF 12) were equipped with a passenger body (usually technical equipment was placed on a towed trailer). All transporters were equipped with Maybach NL 35 engine with an output of 90 hp (Model L5) or Maybach NL 38 with power of 100 hp (Model L7). The Model L5 was produced only in 1935, whereas the L7 was produced in 1936-37. In 1938 the L8 model was produced. Totally about 1300 Sd.Kfz.6 transporters were made.