LiteFoot ATV tracks part of Military review and evaluation program
Several models of the LiteFoot ATV track system are slated for review and evaluation by the U.S. Military as part of an anticipated Army TACOM (Tank-automotive and Armaments Command), procurement contract.

Products included in the testing are from both the Mattracks truck tracks and LiteFoot ATV tracks systems product groups. Participates in the evaluation program include the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers at the Waterways Test Center, the North Dakota National Guard, Navy Seals as well as The U.S. Army Tank Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center (TARDEC).

MATTRACKS T4-3500 Robotic Project Demonstrated at TARDEC
DETROIT ARSENAL, WARREN, MI - The TACOM Life Cycle Management Command is the center for Department of Defense-based ground vehicle robotics projects. The U.S. Army Tank Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center (TARDEC) Track and Suspension Team, Ground Vehicle Power and Mobility Directorate, in conjunction with the Intelligent Ground Systems Directorate, are exploiting opportunities for near-term technology solutions to satisfy a broad range of operational needs in developing ground vehicle robotic platforms and platform components, to include advanced chassis, suspension and robotic drive systems.

TARDEC has been working with MATTRACKS, a Karlstad, MN-based company, for more than a year on a Tracked Unmanned Ground Vehicle project to develop a chassis and electric drive system with superior off-road performance.

During the May 20 demonstration, the 3,100-pound robot whirred to life as it glided down a ramp onto the pavement making less noise than a remote-controlled child’s toy.

The T4-3500 was put through its paces, successfully performing 360-degree pivot turns, crab walking and driving over moguls. It also navigated up and down hills. During testing attended by TARDEC Program Manager Munira Mesiwala on April 1, 2008, the T4-3500 was also able to navigate a one-meter step with ease.

The T4-3500 has five unique components:

• A four-track drive system that allows for maximum mobility and greater stability.
• A walking beam suspension that allows flexibility when encountering mogul-like bumps.
• A modular track system with interchangeable tracks that can be easily replaced by removing only one bolt.
• A passive dual rocker, shape-changing suspension that absorbs road shock.
• Four MATTRACKS electric wheel motors to power the vehicle.

MATTRACKS designed the track system, suspension system, in-hub drive motors, chassis and power source. It will continue over the next year to develop a second version of the T4-3500 that will incorporate installation of common Military Communication Language and hardware, the ability to remotely control the vehicle, higher-powered in-hub motors and high-energy batteries and the ability to operate in a manned and unmanned capacity.

For more information about the TARDEC MATTRACKS program, please contact us.

“The original 4 season all-terrain ATV rubber track conversion system”

Mattracks supports responsible use and operation of All-Terrain Vehicles. We recommend you follow your ATV Manufacturers operational instructions. Use proper safety equipment including a helmet and respect private property and the environment while operating your ATV.

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Karlstad, MN 56732
Phone 218-436-6000