Mahindra has unveiled a Thar Roxx-based ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle). Anand Mahindra, Chairman of Mahindra Group, stated that the vehicle is purpose-built for India’s security forces. The carmaker has said that the vehicle will be pitched to the Indian Army for their trials, post which it may take orders based on the army's requirement.
- Mahindra ATV gets all-terrain tyres, a roll cage, and rock sliders.
- Powered by a 172hp, 400Nm 2.2 diesel with 4x4 drive layout
This isn't the first time that Mahindra has developed a vehicle for the Indian armed forces. Previous models include the Armado, Marksman, and the Scorpio Classic.
Mahindra ATV: What’s different?
Though the ATV is based on the Thar Roxx, Mahindra has made several changes for usage in the line of defence. Starting with the exterior, the front retains the LED headlamps and six-slatted grille from the standard Roxx, but the bumper gets a chunkier design. The bumper features a winch to pull the vehicle out of challenging terrain. The windshield gets additional protection via a metal tube for additional rigidity, and it features lighting mounts. On the bonnet is a farm jack to fix the vehicle in remote areas.
The doors have been stripped off and replaced by metal pipe doors that reduce overall weight, enhance visibility and ease ingress/egress. Like the doors, the roof has been removed and in its place is a modular roll cage that can also be used to mount a 360-degree turret, which is compatible with a 7.62mm calibre medium machine gun. Additionally, there are 18-inch all-terrain tyres with a raised ground clearance. The regular models' door hinge points have been replaced with grab handles for easier access to the roof and load handling.
Metal rock sliders on the sides of the vehicle allow the vehicle to smoothly navigate through rocky terrain. Furthermore, there’s underbody protection that takes care of the car's mechanics. Mounted on the boot lid at the rear is a jerrycan holder for extended range and an additional spare wheel carrier. MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) storage on the rear fender allows for organising and securing military gear, while reinforced hoist brackets enable airdrop readiness.
Powering the Mahindra ATV is Thar Roxx’s 2.2-litre diesel engine delivering 172hp and 400Nm of torque. The engine is paired to a 6-speed torque converter automatic, and there’s a 4x4 drive layout on board. While there’s a double wishbone suspension at the front and a multi-link suspension for the rear, the latter can also be opted for with independent springs. While Mahindra hasn't revealed what the interior looks like, the pictures reveal an army green finish for the seats, and it is expected to carry over a similar dashboard layout as the standard model.
Dipan Sur
Uday Singh
Viraaj Bhatnagar
