# Introducing the Toyota Hilux-Based 6×6 Military Utility Vehicle
## Overview of the MUV
Australia’s Supacat has unveiled an innovative military vehicle based on the popular Toyota Hilux. This new 6×6 truck is designed specifically for regional defense forces, offering a cost-effective and easy-to-maintain solution for military operations.
## Key Features of the MUV
– **Affordability and Maintenance**: The MUV is built with off-the-shelf components, ensuring that it remains budget-friendly and straightforward to service.
– **Impressive Payload Capacity**: With a payload capacity of 3 tons, this vehicle is well-suited for both off-road and littoral missions.
– **Enhanced Mobility**: The addition of a third axle transforms the Hilux into a robust 6×6 vehicle, providing superior traction and stability on challenging terrains.
## The Design and Functionality
The Medium Utility Vehicle (MUV) is constructed on a dual-cab chassis-cab version of the Toyota Hilux, featuring a range of military-grade accessories. The standout characteristic of this vehicle is its six-wheel configuration, which significantly enhances its off-road capabilities.
### Off-Road Capabilities
Equipped with three axles and specially designed tires, the MUV is engineered to navigate difficult landscapes. The vehicle utilizes Toyota’s renowned ladder-frame chassis, ensuring durability and reliability in various operational environments. Supacat emphasizes that the MUV is ideal for both off-road and coastal operations, which is evident in its design that includes a snorkel and rugged bumpers.
## Additional Accessories and Customization
The MUV comes with a variety of enhancements, including:
– **Rugged Bull Bar**: Provides additional protection in challenging environments.
– **Enhanced Lighting**: Equipped with extra LED lights to improve visibility.
– **Military Wrap**: Offers camouflage and protection from the elements.
– **Modular Rear Bed**: Designed for efficient storage of weapons and military equipment, featuring shelves and racks for organization.
## Modularity and Future-Proofing
One of the key advantages of the MUV is its modular design, allowing for easy reconfiguration and upgrades as new technologies emerge. This adaptability, combined with the availability of parts, ensures that regional defense forces can maintain the vehicle with minimal hassle.
## Performance Specifications
The MUV boasts a gross vehicle mass of 6.5 tons (14,330 pounds) and can carry a payload of 3 tons (6,614 pounds). While specific technical details are still pending, Supacat plans to offer an upgraded version of the Hilux’s 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine, which currently delivers 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS) and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque. Buyers will have the option of a manual or automatic transmission.
### Insights from Supacat
Matt Grech, Supacat’s Head of Future Business, expressed confidence in the MUV’s potential, stating, “We believe the MUV will find favor with regional forces seeking to maximize capability while being able to support the product locally from existing resources and infrastructure.”
## Conclusion
As the Australian Defence Force explores new additions to its fleet, the Supacat MUV stands out as a promising option. With its combination of affordability, modularity, and robust performance, this Toyota Hilux-based military vehicle is poised to meet the demands of modern military operations. The future of military utility vehicles looks bright with innovations like the MUV leading the way.
For more information on military vehicles, visit [Military Vehicles](https://www.carscoops.com/tag/military-vehicles/).