Ex-Swiss Army Saurer 2DM 4x4 Cargo Truck

The Saurer 2DM is a legendary Swiss military 4x4 truck that served as the backbone of the Swiss Army’s logistics for decades. Introduced in 1964, it earned a reputation for near-indestructible reliability and exceptional off-road performance in the challenging alpine terrain of Switzerland.

## Core Specifications

### Key Design Features

• Alpine Engineering: Designed specifically for the Swiss mountains, the 2DM features a short wheelbase and excellent ground clearance (270 mm) to navigate narrow, steep passes.

• Reliability: The 2DM is widely considered one of the most reliable military trucks ever built. Many units remained in active Swiss service until 2009—a staggering 45-year lifespan.

• Cargo Back (Bridge & Tarpaulin): The standard "cargo back" version was the workhorse for troop transport and material logistics. It typically featured a wooden or steel bridge with removable bench seating for up to 30 people (including the cab).

• Advanced Gearbox: The mechanical 8-speed gearbox included a pneumatic shifting aid and two-stage reduction for road and off-road driving.

### Operational History

• Production: Approximately 3,200 units were manufactured between 1959 and 1976.

• Special Variants: Beyond the standard cargo truck, the 2DM chassis supported snow plows, aircraft tankers, fire engines, and dump trucks.

• Post-Military Life: Due to their robust nature, many ex-Swiss 2DMs have found a second life as extreme off-road overland campers, heavy-duty commercial workhorses, or are preserved by collectors for historical displays.

Note: The 2DM is a right-hand drive vehicle, a traditional Swiss military configuration that allowed drivers a better view of the road edge when navigating precarious mountain cliffs.