Mercedes-Benz 1017

The Mercedes-Benz 1017 is a series of medium-duty 'New Generation' (NG) cab-over trucks widely used for military and commercial purposes since the late 1970s. The model designation '1017' reflects its specifications: '10' for the maximum gross weight of approximately 10 tonnes and '17' for the engine power of roughly 170 horsepower (specifically 172 hp).

The 'A' in 1017A denotes models with selectable all-wheel drive, known in the German military as 'teilmilitarisiert geländegängig', meaning 'partially militarized, cross-country capable'.

Technical Specifications

• Engine: Mercedes-Benz OM 352 A, a water-cooled, 6-cylinder inline turbocharged diesel engine.
• Displacement: 5,675 cc.
• Power: 127 kW (172 hp) at 2,800 rpm.
• Torque: 540 Nm at 1,600 rpm.
• Transmission: Pneumatically synchronized 5-speed manual gearbox.
• Drivetrain: Available in 4×2 or 4×4 (selectable all-wheel drive) configurations.
• Dimensions: Typically over 7 meters in length (e.g., 7.14 m).
• Payload: Capable of carrying approximately 5.4 tonnes.
• Wading Depth: Approximately 500 mm (0.5 meters).

Military and Operational History

Procurement: The German Bundeswehr began procuring the 1017 and 1017A series in 1977, with total deliveries eventually reaching approximately 22,000 units.

Versatility: Designed as essentially commercial vehicles with minimal modifications for military service, they were used for various roles, including cargo and personnel transport, communication shelters, fuel tankers, NBC-detection vehicles, and fire-fighting vehicles.

Cab Design: The truck features a short steel cab with three individual seats, with the middle seat foldable to allow a gunner to man a roof hatch. Rear windows were often replaced with storage bustles for personal equipment.

Legacy: Many units have seen long service lives, and due to their simple mechanics and reliability, they are frequently refurbished and repurposed for civilian use, such as overland expedition vehicles, cranes, or dumpers.