Occasion 4x4

The MAN KAT 1 range was specially developed to meet military needs

The MAN Category 1 or KAT 1 range includes high mobility tactical trucks with 4x4 (5 t), 6x6 (7 t), and 8x8 (10 t) configurations. They all stem from a West German Army staff requirement drawn up during the early 1960s. The main goal was to design a family of support trucks that could carry loads over rough terrain and could keep up with main battle tanks. The first model produced had 8x8 configuration. Its production began in 1976. Production of the 4x4 and 6x6 variants followed soon after. All trucks share a modular design. Ever since then these trucks have rolled off in thousands and by the end of 1984 the German armed forces received over 14 000 units and thousands more have been exported. License-built version of the KAT 1 have been produced in Austria by OAF.

All models share a common cab and many other components including a low torsion chassis frame, axles and suspension. Many components have commercial origins. The end result was a range of powerful multi-purpose trucks that are uncompromisingly military in appearance and function.

The basic MAN KAT 1 trucks with 4x4 configuration has a 5 000 kg payload capacity. It comes with a general service troop/cargo body. It is used to carry troops and supply combat units with ammunition and other military supplies. The cargo area is covered with bows and canvas cover. The truck has a standard NATO towing hitch and can tow trailers and artillery pieces. It can tow loads even over rough terrain. This tactical truck can be also used for a number of other military applications, carry shelters and special equipment.

All MAN KAT 1 series trucks are fitted with the same forward control cab. It is entirely made of steel. The cab accommodates driver and 2 passengers. Separated windscreens are designed for easier replacement. Also these are installed vertically in order to minimize light reflections. A roof hatch with a machine gun mount was fitted as standard. Optional equipment includes an armored cab.

Vehicle is powered by a 12.7-liter MAN turbocharged diesel engine, developing 256 hp. Engine is mounted behind the cab. This feature allowed to reduce overall height of the vehicle. Engine is mated with a ZF manual gearbox. Vehicle has a permanent all-wheel drive. A winch was fitted as standard.

Follow-up of the original KAT 1 was the KAT 1 A1. These trucks used more components from heavy commercial truck in order to reduce the unit price and keep servicing costs low. These vehicles can be easily identified by an updated cab.

In the early and mid 1990s two interim LX2000 and FX2000 ranges of military trucks were developed. Both of these had a 4x4 model.

Eventually the KAT 1 series trucks later evolved into MAN HX and SX ranges of tactical military trucks. Modern equivalent of the KAT 1 with 4x4 configuration is the MAN HX60.