There are some pretty cool ways to get to remote and difficult to navigate jobsites, like helicopters and this blimp-like aircraft, but I’ve never seen something quite as relatively affordable and attainable as the Fat Truck.
The Fat Truck 2.8 C, created by Zeal Motor Inc., is a four wheeled all-terrain off road vehicle that can not only haul materials and 8 total passengers to a remote job site, but can also float on water. The vehicle is designed for transporting work crews to difficult to navigate sites, where a bus would have trouble driving to and where a helicopter might be too expensive.
Specializing in power line, pipeline, telecommunications, wind farm, and first responder rescue missions, the Fat Truck is not only useful, but something people that aren’t even in their target audience can appreciate and enjoy.
The vehicle weighs a hefty 6,000, can haul 2,200 pounds of material or people inside, and can reach a top speed of 20mph. It’s controlled by a one-handed joystick and has a built-in compressor in order to inflate or deflate the tires, which are 5 feet tall and 2 feet wide, based on the needs of the terrain.
via CAT and Zeal Motors, Inc.
Fuel consumption is not measured by miles per gallon on a piece of equipment like this, but the manufacturer says that it will use 1.1 to 1.5 gallons per hour of use, enough efficiency for a full days work.
For safety, the Fat Truck is certified as a Rollover Protective Structure and also includes a glass hammer to break the tempered glass windows in case passengers are trapped inside.
The Fat Truck is powered by a Cat 2.2C industrial engine, which delivers 67 horsepower to push the vehicle over the rough terrain. The engine is positioned in the center of the vehicle’s interior for better balance. There is a removable panel surrounding the engine to access for service.
A variety of customization options are available, including roof racks, lights, rear seat belts, radio, roof hatch, back up camera, and amphibious trailers, among others. The base price of the vehicle starts at $127,500.
For more information, you can check out the Fat Truck 2.8 C in action below:
Shane is the creator of Construction Junkie and an active construction project manager. In his career, he has managed interior remodel projects, site development, construction safety, governmental project compliance, and facility maintenance. He has a strong passion for construction technology and safety, as well as sharing the knowledge or insights he has gained throughout his career.