As neither a true truck nor a tractor, the Unimog offers a somewhat unusual design that combines rugged 4x4 off-road characteristics with many of the capabilities found on an over-the-road truck. Mercedes-Benz Unimog specialists South Cave Tractors recently hosted an event that celebrated the Brough, East Yorkshire, dealer’s 50th anniversary of selling and servicing the Unimog as well as the 75th anniversary of the Unimog’s initial release.
“Our special anniversary event was a great success, and it was very gratifying that so many customers took time out from their busy schedules to support us,” says South Cave Tractors Co-Director Tony Levitt.
Ultimate Off-Roader
The earliest known prototype of the Unimog, originally known as the “universally applicable motorised device,” began off-road testing in 1946 and the first unit rolled off the Mercedes-Benz production line in 1951. Today, Mercedes-Benz offers the current Unimog range in gross weights from 7.5 to 16 tonnes (8.3 to 17.6 U.S. tons). The Unimog is a useful participant in a variety of sectors, including agriculture, utilities, and municipal services.
Firsthand experience with the vehicle’s unique capabilities is critical, says Levitt. “You’re not so much selling a vehicle as a concept,” he explains. “Operators need to experience the Unimog at first hand, working with equipment, to fully appreciate what it can do.”
Unimog Versatility
Mercedes-Benz offers two primary Unimog configurations: a UGE implement carrier and a UHE off-road vehicle available in several body types. Dealers like South Cave Tractors can modify the Unimog to suit highly specialised roles, from agriculture-focused machines with mower and forklift attachments to railroad maintenance and construction duties.
“I’ve spent most of my career working on and with Unimogs, and I’m as passionate about the product today as I’ve ever been,” says Levitt. “The same is true of my team; we’re all enthusiasts at heart.”
Find Mercedes-Benz Trucks
You’ll find a large selection of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, including an ever-changing selection of Unimogs, for sale on Truck Locator.
Source: Mercedes-Benz