UNIQUE but REAL - This is solely to satisfy our curiosity about a unique classic custom car originating from Brno, a city nestled in the south of the Czech Republic, apart from the previously discussed Netik 600 Raketa, which is equally unique. The mentioned automotive marvel once symbolized luxury and speed before being transformed into firefighting vehicles, some of the fastest of their time.
Under the expertise of Czechoslovakian coachbuilder T. Lepil, the Horch 853 underwent a remarkable transformation into Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil firefighting vehicles. (Picture from: Bangshift)
Well, the Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil is not your average car; it's a captivating fusion of history, innovation, and resilience. Its distinct exterior may seem like something from a science fiction movie, but this exceptional vehicle has a compelling backstory. Originally, it was a luxurious Horch 853 Sport Cabriolet, abandoned by a German commander during World War II amidst the turmoil of Czechoslovakia's changing political landscape.
The remarkable Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil fire truck has a distinct exterior may seem like something from a science fiction movie, and captivating fusion of history, innovation, and resilience. (Picture from: Bubblemania.fr)
Horch, formally known as A. Horch & Co., was a renowned German automotive manufacturer founded in Cologne in 1899. By 1904, the company had relocated its operations to Zwickau, Saxony. Among the Auto Union brands (Audi, DKW, Horch, and Wanderer), Horch specialized in luxury vehicles, and the Horch 853 Sport Cabrioletwas the final model introduced before passenger car production ceased in March 1940.
The Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil fire truck was built based on an abandoned Horch 853 Sport Cabriolet, as seen in the picture.(Picture from: Autoweek)
Despite its history, the Brno firefighters noted that this particular model was from 1941, suggesting it was among the last units produced. The Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil emerged during a time when a 100 hp engine was a remarkable achievement. However, the aftermath of the war cast doubt on anything linked to Germany, including this elegant convertible.
The narrative took an intriguing turn in November 1945 when the Brno-Komín fire brigade made the decision to repurpose this modified Horch 853 convertible for firefighting tasks. The scarcity of specialized vehicles in the post-war era prompted organizations to adapt existing cars for essential roles. Thus, the Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil evolved from a symbol of luxury to a testament of human ingenuity, seamlessly combining elegance with functionality. Who was behind this remarkable transformation?
The remarkable Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil is pictured alongside its sibling fire truck from the Brno-Komín fire brigade. (Picture from: Bubblemania.fr)
Well, under the expertise of Czechoslovakian coachbuilder T. Lepil, known for their innovative designs, the Horch 853 underwent a remarkable transformation. Guided by Tomáš Lepil's sons, Bedřich and Josef, the Lepil team embarked on a journey of creativity and reinvention. They meticulously redesigned the convertible, incorporating features such as a separate rear entry and expanded space to accommodate firefighting equipment efficiently.
In the cabin of the Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil fire truck, you'll find a straightforward dashboard featuring a four-spoke steering wheel, a standard instrument panel, gauges, and knobs.(Picture from: Bubblemania.fr)
Interestingly, the transparent cabin bears a resemblance to a section of the Junkers Ju-388 bomber's cockpit. Was this part taken from there? So far, there's no information about that yet; time will reveal the truth. What distinguishes the Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil is its ability to accommodate six crew members under its transparent roof, alongside a fire hose, making it an exceptionally efficient firefighting apparatus.
The transparent cabin of the Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil bears a resemblance to a section of the Junkers Ju-388 bomber's cockpit, leading to speculations that it may have come from the German plane. (Picture from: Pinterest)
Today, the legacy of the Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil endures as one of the most remarkable fire vehicles ever created. It exemplifies the intersection of automotive history and human innovation, illustrating how a neglected plush convertible found a new purpose and became an iconic figure in firefighting. This narrative underscores the resilience of human creativity, exemplified by the visionary work of the Lepil family and their team.
The Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil was once a symbol of luxury and speed, standing out as one of the fastest firefighting vehicles of its time, featuring a powerful eight-cylinder engine.(Picture from: Bangshift)
In conclusion, the journey of the Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil reminds us of the limitless potential of innovation. Even in adversity, humans can elevate the ordinary to the extraordinary, showcasing enduring ingenuity and adaptability. It's a story that continues to inspire, emphasizing the timeless spirit of innovation and resilience. Moreover, if you're interested in exploring another stunning Horch car creation,click here!*** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MOTOR.ES | BUBBLEMANIA.FR | WEIRDWHEELS | CHOICEGEARS.ORG | BANGSHFT | AUTOWEEK ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.
Autonomous Dumper - Automotive enthusiasts worldwide are no strangers to the renowned name KamAZ, a dominant force in the Dakar Rally with a staggering 19 victories under their belt. However, their recent foray into the spotlight involves more than just conquering desert terrains. The latest venture of the Russian truck manufacturer is a driverless dump truck prototype nicknamed 'Robocop,' and marking a significant leap into the realm of autonomous driving technology.
KamAZ 'Robocop' is an autonomous dump truck for the Russian coal mines. (Picture from: Otomotif.Sindonews)
Unlike their previous exploits, this prototype is not destined for the racetrack but rather the rugged terrain of Russian coal mines. Riding on the foundation of the KamAZ Atlant 49 tipper truck, boasting a cab-over design, a robust four-axle 8x4 chassis, a potent turbodiesel engine, and an impressive capacity to bear a load of up to 49 tonnes, Robocop is geared for formidable industrial challenges.
KamAZ 'Robocop' riding on the foundation of the KamAZ Atlant 49 tipper truck, boasting a cab-over design, a robust four-axle 8x4 chassis, a potent turbodiesel engine, and an impressive capacity to bear a load of up to 49 tonne. (Picture from: PhoneMantra)
Visually, the truck retains the familiar contours of its manual counterpart, with the distinguishing feature being the absence of doors and mirrors—a clear indicator of its autonomous nature. The cabin interior, however, is a testament to cutting-edge technology. Fitted with an array of sensors, cameras, and sophisticated software, Robocop is capable of executing its tasks without the need for a human driver.
KamAZ 'Robocop' dump truck is specifically crafted for deployment in quarries and coal mines. (Picture from: Carscoops)
The front of the cabin, characterized by tinted glass, serves as a home to various sensors and cameras, orchestrating the truck's autonomous navigation. The rearview mirror, repurposed for monitoring the truck's surroundings, exemplifies the meticulous design catering to self-sufficiency. Even in the event of a glitch in the fully autonomous system, the operator can take control remotely, underscoring the flexibility of this technological marvel—a giant toy in the hands of a skilled operator.
This Russian 'Robocop' dump truck is specifically crafted for deployment in quarries and coal mines. KamAZ envisions rigorous testing and operational use in Kemerovo, Russia's prominent mining city, affirming their commitment to advancing autonomous technology in demanding industrial settings.
The front of the cabin, characterized by tinted glass, serves as a home to various sensors and cameras, orchestrating the truck's autonomous navigation. (Picture from: Otomotif.Sindonews)
Remarkably, this isn't KamAZ's inaugural venture into the realm of autonomous trucks. Their earlier endeavor dates back to 2017 with the Kamaz 43118 model, a cargo truck designed and tested to navigate the challenges of cold and freezing conditions. Operating under the harshest winter environments, this autonomous truck has proven its mettle, ensuring uninterrupted truck operations even in the most extreme weather conditions.
In conclusion, KamAZ's Robocop marks a pivotal step in the convergence of automotive engineering and autonomous technology. Beyond the thrill of the Dakar Rally, KamAZ now sets its sights on transforming industrial landscapes with a driverless behemoth capable of withstanding the rigors of coal mines and quarries. As the wheels of progress turn, KamAZ continues to drive innovation, proving that their expertise extends far beyond the race track into the uncharted territories of autonomous heavy-duty vehicles. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOPRONEWS.RU | WWW1.RU | PHONEMANTRA | CARSCOOPS | BNN.NETWORK ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.
SUPER INSANE - If you have a question, the biggest and most powerful truck ever built by mankind, then the answer is Thor 24. Well, it is a unique big vehicle that is often referred to as 'the most powerful big rig ever built' because of its horsepower rating (3,974 horsepower) achieved through a 24-cylinder engine supported by 12 superchargers. When it was built, we've made an article about it.
Here's a 4,000 horsepower Peterbilt truck named Thor 24, the 'most powerful big rig ever.' (Picture from: PikiranRakyat)
Can you imagine the 'God of Thunder' in the form of a super truck? This super big 44-foot rig was built by Mike Harrah, along with his colleagues Tim Spink, and Paul Abram. As quoted from OddityCentral, the funds spent to built this super truck are more than $7 millions and take about seven years with a donor of 1984 Peterbuilt 359 Semi-Truck. And this super truck is powered by two 852 cubic inch V12 diesel engines coupled with 12 superchargers.
Mike Harrah posed along with his created super big 44-foot rig, Thor 24. (Picture from: BusinessInsider)
Thanks to those two diesel engines attached, so it capable of pushing the 32,000 lbs (16 tons) truck up to a top speed of 160 kph. If coupled with a nitro boost, the Thor 24's speed jumps up to 209 kph. There are as many as eight nitrous oxide bottles installed between the middle banks of the superchargers. So to tame the run, it also takes four drag parachutes that come out of the rear bumper.
As you can see at almost half of the body of Thor 24 covered in shiny chrome and aluminum accents. (Picture from: Otomotif.OkeZone)
Once you look at the Thor 24 and anyone can tell it's no ordinary big truck. Just take a look at almost half of the body covered in shiny chrome and aluminum accents which are very eye-catching, coupled with the booming sound of the two V12 diesel engines making this 'God of Thunder' really attract attention.
The Thor 24 is powered by massive 24-cylinder engine of 3,974 horsepower and supported by 12 superchargers. (Picture from: BusinessInsider)
While inside of this Thor 24 metal monster is no less interesting. There you can see there's a four-spoke steering wheel and , with the gear shifter shaped like a badass sword, coupled with the dashboard features no less than 24 gauges, including a speedometer, tachometer, multiple pressure gauges, and a compressor operating indicator, and not only that the entire cabin is illuminated with LEDs.
The Thor 24 's cabin has a four-spoke steering wheel and , with the gear shifter shaped like a badass sword, coupled with the dashboard features no less than 24 gauges. (Picture from: Otomotif.OkeZone)
This super truck is also equipped with a variety of interesting features, one of which is a 40-inch TV and another 1,500 watts electrical system. Therefore, the manufacturer added the Hawker Jet Helicopter engine which functions as an additional generator.
Rear view of the most insane Peterbilt custom truck ever made, Thor 24 with its creator Mike Harrah. (Picture from: FleetOwner)
Because the front of the truck is so long, four front bumper-mounted cameras provide live footage onto four 4x6-inch viewing screens mounted above the windshield so the driver can see clearly ahead. Thanks to its size and performance, in 2019 the Thor 24 set a new world record for the highest-priced custom vehicle ever sold.
Well, at that time this super truck was auctioned by Worldwide Auctioneer for an initial price of $12 millions, then as the auction took place the price continued to increase until it was hammered at $13.2 millions and the auction house got 10 percent of the buyer's premium. After that Thor 24 officially became the property of a billionaire from Saudi Arabia. WOW..! *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ODDITYCENTRAL | BUSINESSINSIDER | FLEETOWNER | PIKIRANRAKYAT ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.
BIG TOYs Russia has recently introduced a new all-terrain vehicle (ATV) has capablity of crossing different types of extreme terrain snowing up to the surface of the water can be crossed by this vehicle with ease.
The Sherpcan get you anywhere is a very broad description,even swim, it describes it accurately. (Picture from: CarScoops)
As quoted from CarScoops, Alexei Garagashyan created one of the most impressive vehicles we saw in recent years in the form of the Sherp, designed to have the same performance as ATV but the Sherp is equipped with 4 huge custom self-inflating tires for easy devour the obstacles with a maximum height of 70 cm (2.3 ft).
The Sherp is powered by a four-cylinder 1.5-litre Kubota diesel engine with maximum power up to 44 hp. (Picture from: CarScoops)
With tiny body and huge tires also allow the Sherp remained agile over snow-slippery roads to drive on the surface of the water and pretty light too, weighing just 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs). While on the water surface this vehicle can swim at a maximum speed of 6 kph.
This Russian truck has the ability to mount obstacles as tall as 70 cm (2.3 ft) thanks to its huge custom self-inflating tires and can even swim with a maximum speed of 6 kph. (Picture from: CarScoops)
For the machine section, Sherp only rely on a four-cylinder 1.5-litre Kubota diesel engine with maximum power up to 44 hp. And has a top speed reaches 45 kph (28 mph), by using the 4WD system.
The Sherp, an ATV which can tackle almost every surface. (Picture from: CarScoops)
A skid-steer system allows it to turn in its own length which is 3.4 m but also to claim the title of the most fun tank-like vehicle we’ve ever seen.
To bring this reliable ATV on various terrains, consumers must redeem it with a price tag of US. $65,000 or approximately Rp.874 million as a pickup with a tent while the hardtop version costs $70,000 (Rp.936 million). *** [EKA [14022016] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SHERP | CARSCOOPS ]
Weird ONES - Sedan has been known as a classy, elegant vehicle, and is used to transport officials or dignitaries. But you know, that the largest sedan in the world is actually used to pull the plane (strange isn't it?)
The Soviet aircraft tug MAZ-541 was known as was the largest sedan ever built with a weight over 3,5 ton, and powered by a 38.8 litres, 12 cylinder 300hp D-12A diesel engine. (Picture from: Wikiwand)
In the mid-1950s, when aircraft evolved into large jet aircraft and where the airport had to find a larger vehicle to pull the plane. And in Russia (the Soviet Union at the time) offered one of the most curiously revolutionary solutions ie making sedan-shaped cranes with large bodies and machines outside the tank.
Yes, these weird sedan is the MAZ-541, that made by the Minski Autamabilny Zavod (Minsk Automobile Plant). This car is only produced as many as three units and was first launched in 1956. In some articles indicate that the car manufacturer has produced 13 units, but other sources claim that 10 other cars have been planned to be produced but never implemented.
A Soviet sedan-shaped tow truck called MAZ-541 with a TU-144 supersonic aircraft or Soviet Concorde. (Picture from: Wikiwand)
With a box-shaped body, it seems to be tailored to its function as an aircraft tow truck. With this function, the car has two drivers, just like a train that has two engineers to facilitate the operation of the car at the airport.
A Soviet MAZ-541 tow truck on action at Sheremetyevo International Airport. (Picture from: Flickr)
But for a tow truck class, driving style and features installed on this car was more surprising. Yes, seen on the sedan-shaped tow truck has a wide body, there are chrome features in some parts, and a stylish grille shape. These MAZ-541 uses a Soviet-made T-34 liquid-cooled V12 diesel engine that has capacity of 3,888 liter. The machine is capable of supplying the power for MAZ-541up to 500 horsepower assisted by a five-speed transmission with three forward gears and two gears for retreat.
MAZ-541 sedan-shaped tow truck appearance from front, side and back. (Picture from: Devianart)
On some articles explain that these car is used to serve at Sheremetyevo International Airport located near Moscow, which became one of the Soviet way to boast these weirdo vehicle, especially to the foreigners who visited Russia at that time. So, it is quite possible that the stylish appearance (in quotation marks) is deliberately made.
This car is clearly shown in a promotional footage of the TU-144 supersonic plane, also known as Soviet's concorde. As time goes by and as the aircraft continued to be grown (its size and weight), then in the 1970s those three sedan-shaped tow trucks were no longer in use. The MAZ-541 may be the largest, powerful, and arguably charming design and weird as well that the Soviets once made. Did you know, until now the MAZ-541 still holds the title as the world's biggest (and weirdest) sedan ever made. *** [EKA [04052018] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DEVIANART | ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone
FUTURE Off-Roader Today it seems, the automotive world and automakers are in high spirits to build some of the most exciting vehicles in decades. And in the midst of the rapid development of electric powertrain and battery technology, more and more people are interested in taking part and entering the competitive field.
Meet the Thundertruck, an all-electric off-road concept that can be configured in a number of different ways - even with an extra component that adds a bigger battery and more wheels! (Picture from: Konfrontasi)
Not only car manufacturers, anyone who has an interest in the automotive world seems to want to be able to make electric cars. One example is what a creative advertising agency called Wolfgang LA did. Recently the firm reported to have launched an electric off-roader with a futuristic design called the Thundertruck, which is said also to be in mass production soon.
As quoted of CarScoops, this Thundertruck is a side project of co-founders Wolfgang LA, namely Colin Jeffery and Mike Geiger and has been ongoing for the past two years with the assistance of many automotive experts as well as engineers, designers, and sculptors.
There’s more than a few hints of Tesla’s Cybertruck in its design, but the Thundertruck packs more than a few of its own very clever touches. (Picture from: BlackXperience)
And this Wolfgang LA's unique electric-powered truck is said to focus on some kind of innovative creation and cutting-edge design, where through this new design they want to show a unique alternative view of today' rapidly evolving EV truck revolution with features never seen before attached on the such vehicles.
The Thundertruck says the beast has a theoretical range of 644 kilometres from its 180kWh battery pack, with a combined power and torque output from its dual electric motors of 590kW and 1085Nm. (Picture from: SlashGear)
Indeed, by providing unrestricted freedom to express ideas, allowing designers to let their minds run wild and think of interesting ideas that might be applied to the proposed vehicle. The first thing that catches the eye of the Thundertruck's design is its shape, this is interesting because it will make the Tesla Cybertruck looks ordinary and nothing.
There're the “Solar Awning” that fits into a pair of storage pods on the roof and folds out either side of the truck when it is stationary to not only provide shade, but also top up the Thundertruck’s batteries. (Picture from: OtoBandung)
How not, on this Thundertruck figure there are almost no front or rear overhangs and also no traditional hood with a windshield that extends right into the front of the truck. Elsewhere, the Thundertruck has been envisioned with LED headlights, coupled with the embedding of a set of wheels wrapped in off-road tread tires.
The ‘Solar Awning’ provides shade and a handy top-up charge for the batteries and additional tents. (Picture from: OtoBandung)
Other key design highlights of the vehicle are the unique positioning of the doors, the range extender in the form of additional set of wheels that directly connects to the back of the vehicle. The kind of a unique feature adds a range of 160 miles (257 km) for a total range of 560 miles (900 km) and also converts the Thundertruck into a 6x6 vehicle with better off-road capabilities.
Another unique features are the two large solar panel awnings that help to charge the Thundertruck during its long touring journey. Besides that, it can also function as additional tents so that it can make the camping atmosphere comfortable and easy with the additional shade of the tents. As quoted of STuff, the firm says their beast has a theoretical range of 644 kilometres from its 180kWh battery pack, with a combined power and torque output from its dual electric motors of 590kW and 1085Nm.
The Thundertruck’s smartest trick is the detachable range extender unit that not only adds more range and grunt, but also two more wheels. (Picture from: BlackXperience)
Furthermore by experimenting with new car features on this eye-catching design at least shows us what the future of trucks might look like. As You can be seen the Thundertruck takes the concept of an all-terrain EV truck to a new level with exciting concepts executed into a beautiful 3D-rendered image, making it as one-of-a-kind vehicle that's described of an off-roader in the future.
It could be said that the Thundertruck is not only a unique handy electric powered truck, also could be the perfect demonstration of how the future truck can give its users something more thanks to its increadible EV construction.
Wolfgang LA said that they have spoken to several technology companies, potential production partners and investors about the possibility to bring their Thundertruck project into a production version, which is estimated to cost around $70,000 each.👀
Putin's Batmobile Have you ever seen this Russian-made fierce car similar to the Batmobile before? It is certain that some of you have never seen it before. And we saw it for the first time in Russia Beyond's video story on Facebook social media while surfing the internet.
This is a Russian-made Batmobile likened vehicle bears unusual name of the Falcatus and is said to be the most secret custom-built vehicle for the Russian government's Federal Security Service (FSB). (Picture from: ArmyRecognition)
As quoted of the Russia Beyond, this Russian-made Batmobile likened vehicle bears unusual name of the Falcatus and is said to be the most secret custom-built vehicle for the Russian government's Federal Security Service (FSB) is built and developed by a Russian automaker Zil. This tactical armored vehicle is also known as 'Putin's Batmobile' or 'Karatel,' which means 'chastener,' and was first tested on a series of special missions of the Dagestan conflict areas in April 2016.
The Falcatus is built and developed by Zil based on the KAMAZ Master armored vehicle platform. (Picture from: Defence-Blog)
It looks like this armored tactical vehicle was developed from the ZIL Futuristic Assault Wagon Concept, and the Russian Falcatus 4-wheeled armored monster is also equipped with a number of weapons, besides being able to be used as a tactical personnel carrier in various urban missions, it can also be used as a light attack vehicle to attack or break enemy fortifications.
The Falcatus is used as a a tactical personnel carrier in various urban missions, it can also be
used as a light attack vehicle to attack or break enemy fortifications. (Picture from: Behance)
From the outside, the Falcatus tactical vehicle looks aggressive similar to the Bruce Wayne's Batmobile and includes to the Armored Personnel Carrier (APC) category. This 12-tons weighted armored vehicle is built on the KAMAZ Master platform with a four-wheel drive system powered by an eight-cylinder engine with more than 700 horsepower. So it is not surprising, if the Falcatus is rumoured capable run up to 200 kph while carrying 12 personnel at once inside its belly.
The Falcatus is powered by by an eight-cylinder engine with more than 700 horsepower coupled with four-wheeled drive system. (Picture from: Behance)
In general, this Russian armored personnel carrier is specially made with a design that would be protected all crew inside from heavy machine gun fires, while its V-shaped bottom section will break the waves of mine explosions. Unfortunately the detailed specifications are kept secret (due to since the beginning this is the most secret Russian's military-purposed vehicle).
The Falcatus is rumoured capable run up to 200 kph while carrying 12 personnel at once inside its belly. (Picture from: Behance)
Meanwhile the Falcatus driver is protected by three armored glass plates, although somewhat blocking the view, these plates can ensure the driver is completely protected from enemy bullet targets. Not to mention the hood of this armored monster is made very long. Therefore, to overcome blind spots or parts that are not visible when driving the vehicle, the designer then added a number of cameras. That way, the driver will get a fully 360-degree view of the situation suround the vehicle.
The Falcatus is specially made with a design that would be protected all crew inside
from heavy machine gun fires, while its V-shaped bottom section will
break the waves of mine explosions. (Picture from: Behance)
In addition to the driver, the 12 soldiers who were carried inside the Falcatus' cabin reportedly also equipped with night vision equipment and rifle slots on the sides of the vehicle which were protected by bulletproof glass. The machine gun can be fired from two places, namely the gun slot in the rear door and the hole in the roof (where the shooter climbs out and opens fire). Not only that, at the bottom there is a special weapon that can shoot fire.
For an urban raid mission, the soldiers inside Falcatus could exit through five doors, two on each side and one at the back of the vehicle. Uniquely, the doors open in different directions so that they can also be functioned as an extra protection during a firefight.
This futuristic tactical vehicle will replace the outdated Russian army APCs used for urban missions and also said that the vehicle is stronger and faster than ordinary Soviet-made vehicles, and is claimed to be able to follow and even chase the Western countries-made cars like Mercedes-Benz and BMW, etc. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | RUSSIA BEYOND | BEHANCE | ARMY RECOGNITION | DEFENCE-BLOG ]
In conclusion, the journey of the Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil reminds us of the limitless potential of innovation. Even in adversity, humans can elevate the ordinary to the extraordinary, showcasing enduring ingenuity and adaptability. It's a story that continues to inspire, emphasizing the timeless spirit of innovation and resilience. Moreover, if you're interested in exploring another stunning Horch car creation, click here! *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MOTOR.ES | BUBBLEMANIA.FR | WEIRDWHEELS | CHOICEGEARS.ORG | BANGSHFT | AUTOWEEK ]
