| Damiler-Benz carried out a research study during the mid-1980s to see if it was feasible to produce an armoured wheeled vehicle larger than the, then
20-ton, theoretical weight limit. Once they had established that it was possible to produce wheeled armoured vehicles in the 30-35-ton class they
developed the EXF [Lit; Experimentalfahrzeug or experimental vehicle]. Subsequent to its production it was entered in the Bundewehr's Panther tank
destroyer program but was not successful mainly because of a lack of commonality with existing vehicles.
The design is a modular concept that features standard components including Daimler-Benz OM400 series water-cooled, turbo-charged diesel engine.
The variable drive train allows it to be installed as a front or rear engined vehicle and has sufficient flexibility in its output to allow heavier armour or
armament to be fitted to the vehicle. The design of the vehicle allows turrets of up to 14.5-ton to be fitted.
The vehicle is equipped with CTS combat wheels which allow the tyre pressure to be raised or lowered at will to suit the terrain being crossed.
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