Torsus has introduced its Praetorian TG3 third-generation 4×4 off-road bus, a model that the Czech manufacturer says is suitable for the world’s harshest terrain and toughest environments.
That includes an ability to handle 65% inclines and ford 68cm deep rivers. It is built on a MAN chassis and uses the 6.9-litre D0836 engine coupled to a 12-speed ZF automated manual gearbox.
The latter unit comes with an efficiency mode for on-road driving, but at the other end of that performance scale is an “emergency mode.” It sees shifts made faster and at higher engine speeds. Between them is an off-road mode and a low-range mode.
The body is made from polymer and the vehicle is available in what the manufacturer describes as Shell, Transporter and Minesite specifications.
Over 50 all-new technical updates are present on the 8.7m-long Praetorian TG3, with Torsus saying that the chassis and powertrain are fully warranted and serviceable by all MAN dealerships “anywhere in the world.”
Up to 34 passengers and a guide can be carried via 14 possible seating configurations. The bus comes with 19.5-inch disc brakes on both axles and new rear air suspension in place of leaf springs. The front axle is also now mounted on airbags.
Torsus says that bespoke chassis and superstructure mountings “transform” handling, usability and comfort across any terrain, while heating, ventilation and air-conditioning has been upgraded. A 12,000kg, 30-metre front winch is also fitted.
The chassis and suspension system have been upgraded, while Torsus Technical Manager Tomas Micuda says that the Praetorian TG3 has “a special algorithm” to reduce the vehicle’s top-heavy feel.
Mr Micuda adds that the latest variant of the Praetorian is the fruit of a 20-month research and development programme and follows feedback from customers globally. Front axle, rear axle and inter-axle differential locks are fitted and the engine bay has a Blazecut automatic powder fire suppression system.
Torsus Founder and CEO Vakhtang Dzhukashvili describes the Praetorian TG3 as “the toughest off-road bus in the world” and says that the manufacturer collects data from customers “all the time.”
He adds: “This data enables us to design and engineer highly focused technical enhancements that deliver mission-specific, real-world advantages as clearly demonstrated by the next-generation Praetorian, and our smaller, faster, and even more nimble Terrastorm.”
While confirmation is awaited whether the model will be built in right-hand drive, the manufacturer gives pricing in GBP starting from £192,000. The Praetorian TG3 is already in service in markets including Germany, Spain and Ukraine.
