While the modern Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG 6×6 has captured imaginations with its imposing presence, the concept of a six-wheeled Mercedes-Benz is not entirely new. Delving into the history of the German marque reveals an earlier, and perhaps more historically significant, six-wheeled vehicle: the Mercedes-Benz W31, also known as the G4.
Produced from 1934, the Mercedes-Benz W31 G4 was a three-axle off-road vehicle originally designed for the Wehrmacht as a staff and command car. This seven-seater touring car, or closed saloon, was primarily utilized by the upper ranks of the Nazi regime for parades and inspections. Its high production cost meant it was not practical for widespread military use. Interestingly, despite its association with the Nazi party, Mercedes-Benz doesn’t prominently feature this vehicle in modern marketing narratives.
It’s worth noting that Mercedes-Benz was not the first automaker to explore the six-wheel concept. British manufacturer Range Rover also developed six-wheeled vehicles, predating the modern G63 AMG 6×6 and serving different purposes.
Range Rover’s foray into six-wheelers focused on utility, with the first-generation Range Rover acting as a platform for specialized vehicles. One notable example is the Carmichaels International six-wheel Fire Tender. This variant, based on a two-door Range Rover, featured an extended chassis and a “lazy” third axle. Designed for use at small airfields, it included a water pump driven directly by the V8 engine’s crankshaft. The British Ministry of Defence also procured these vehicles for the Royal Air Force, designating their version the TACR2. These RAF models were four-door configurations with an internally mounted water pump. Intriguingly, some of these Range Rover Fire Tenders have been converted into full 6×6 vehicles, demonstrating the adaptability of the original design.
While the Mercedes-Benz W31 G4 served a political and ceremonial purpose, and the Range Rover six-wheelers were engineered for utility roles like firefighting, both demonstrate that the idea of a six-wheeled vehicle extends beyond the contemporary luxury and off-road prowess associated with models like the G63 AMG 6×6. These historical examples offer a broader perspective on the evolution and diverse applications of six-wheeled automotive engineering.
