Off-road vehicles are vehicles designed for tackling difficult terrain or unconventional, such as rough paths, sand, mud, rocks or unpaved surfaces. These vehicles have specific characteristics that make them suitable for these contexts: one greater ground clearance to overcome obstacles, robust suspension to adapt to uneven terrain, all-wheel drive or 4×4 to improve grip, tires designed to perform on different surfaces but above all they must be equipped with reduced gears.
The reduced gears
Reduced gears in off-road vehicles have the task of increasing torque by reducing the speed of the vehicle. This system is commonly known as a “reducer”. They allow you to tackle difficult terrain or steep slopes. Low gears are especially useful when driving on rough, muddy, sandy or rocky terrain, where you need more control and better traction. By activating low gears, the vehicle gains more driving force, allowing it to overcome more challenging obstacles without overheating the engine or damaging the transmission system.
Off-road characteristics
Off-road vehicles, thanks to their ability to tackle various types of terrain, can access otherwise inaccessible places for traditional vehicles. These characteristics make them valuable in various sectors such as civil (rescue, firefighting), law enforcement (Army, Police, Carabinieri, etc.) and professional (mining, shipbuilding), as well as for private and recreational uses.
The main features of an all-terrain vehicle include:
- Four-wheel drive: All-wheel drive provides traction to all four wheels, which is essential for tackling difficult terrain.
- Reduced gears: off-road vehicles are equipped with a reducer located at the gearbox output which has the task of reducing the ratios of all the gears, including reverse.
- High minimum ground clearance: the minimum ground clearance must allow the off-road vehicle to overcome obstacles such as rocks and potholes.
- Short wheelbase: the short wheelbase provides greater agility and allows the off-roader to negotiate sharp turns and rough terrain.
- Approach, ramp and departure angles: The attack, breakover and departure angles measure the off-road vehicle's ability to deal with slopes and obstacles. I have to be elevated and mirrored.
- Wide travel suspension: the wide travel suspension allows the off-road vehicle to absorb shocks and rough terrain.
- Off-road tires: Off-road tires are designed to provide greater traction and grip on difficult terrain.
In addition to these features, off-road vehicles can be equipped with a number of other accessories that enhance their off-road capabilities, including:
- Winch: a winch can be used to pull the off-road vehicle out of difficult situations.
- Tow hitch: a tow bar can be used to tow other vehicles or equipment.
- Protections: the protections have the task of protecting the bottom of the vehicle and the mechanical parts from impacts.
- Snrokel: born for sand, it is an extension of the engine's air intake which raises the intake point from the ground. It allows you to easily overcome any type of ford.
- Roll Bar: also called roll-cage, it is a tubular metal cage that protects the passenger compartment and the integrity of the vehicle in the event of a rollover or accident.
(complete test in ELABORARE4x4 magazine 95 Jan. Feb 2024)
The versatility of off-road vehicles
Off-road vehicles are very versatile vehicles that can be used for a variety of purposes, including:
- Transport: 4x4s can be used to transport people and equipment to remote areas.
- Work: 4x4s can be used for work purposes, such as transporting goods or construction.
- Hobby: 4x4s are popular among 4×4 enthusiasts, who use them to explore nature and tackle the challenges of off road.
Today's off-road vehicles
The off-road vehicles on the market today are: Ford Bronco, Gonow GA200 Pick Up 4×4 and GX6 4×4, Ineos Grenadier, Isuzu D-Max, Jeep Wrangler 4xe, Land Rover Defender 90, 110 and 130, Mercedes G-Class, Suzuki Jimny PRO, Toyota Land Cruiser, X K2.
The off-road vehicles of yesteryear, the hard and pure ones
Off-road vehicles of yesteryear were rugged, reliable vehicles designed to handle the toughest conditions. They were often gifted with frames with side members and crosspiecespowerful engines and robust suspension.
Here is an overview of some of the most iconic off-road vehicles of yesteryear:
- Jeep Wrangler: The Jeep Wrangler is one of the most popular and enduring 4x4s of all time. It was introduced in 1986 and has been constantly updated since then. The Wrangler is known for its versatility, capability and iconic style.
- Land Rover Defender: the Land Rover Defender is another legendary 4×4. It was introduced in 1948 and has served as a military and civilian vehicle throughout the world. The Defender is known for its robustness, reliability and ability to tackle any terrain.
- Toyota Land Cruiser: the Toyota Land Cruiser is another legendary 4×4. It was introduced in 1951 and has been constantly updated since then. The Land Cruiser is known for its reliability, durability and ability to deal with any weather conditions.
- Nissan Patrol – the Nissan Patrol is another legendary 4×4 that was introduced in 1951. It was an instant success and continued to be produced for over 70 years.
These off-road vehicles were often used for military, agricultural and relief purposes. They were also popular with 4×4 enthusiasts, who used them to explore nature and tackle off-road challenges.
Why choose an off-road vehicle from times gone by
Here are some of the reasons why old-time (historic) off-road vehicles are still popular today:
- They are robust and reliable: Old-time 4x4s are built with high-quality materials and are designed to last. They are less likely to break or get damaged than modern 4x4s. They have very little electronics, almost nothing in older off-road vehicles.
- They are able: Old-time 4x4s are designed to handle the toughest conditions. They have large wheels and tires, sturdy suspension and powerful engines.
- They are iconic: old-time 4x4s have a classic design that has remained popular for decades. They are often considered collector's items and are highly sought after by enthusiasts.
Old-time off-road vehicles are an important part of off-road history. They are rugged, reliable and capable vehicles that have inspired generations of enthusiasts.
Read also:
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