Rapid Intervention Vehicle unveiled as military jeep

Power is provided by an uprated version of the 3.0-litre V6 diesel found in the Maserati Ghibli. It produces 296bhp and 443lb ft, and drives the RIV’s four wheels via a ZF eightspeed automatic gearbox, Torsen T2R torque-sensing differentials and a transfer ’box with a lockable diff. All can withstand desert temperatures of up to 55deg C.

Despite weighing 4000kg the RIV can do 0-62mph in 10.5sec on the way to a maximum speed of 100mph, with or without windscreen. As it accelerates, the RIV’s aerodynamically styled body guides sand over the top of the vehicle to avoid clogging the interior. Winglets at the front reduce drag around the wheels. At 62mph, it will cover about 600 miles on a tank of fuel.

“It’s the fastest vehicle across the desert,” said Jim Hopton, the project’s chief engineer. “Its secret is getting into and out of combat quickly, reliably and safely, going where few other vehicles can, so avoiding the Improvised Exposive Devices that cripple those using traditional routes.”

Horiba-Mira has built three development vehicles, two of which are currently undergoing evaluation by the UAE military.

“A lesser vehicle lasts about six months in the hands of the military before it’s wrecked,” said Hopton. “Not one frame has broken during testing and we believe an RIV could last at least three years.” 

Price £200,000 (est) Body Steel spaceframe with composite panels Engine Fiat-Chrysler 3.0 V6 diesel Power, torque 296bhp, 443lb ft Transmission ZF 8-spd auto, four-wheel drive, Torsen differentials Suspension Independent, variable ride height Weight 4000kg Dimensions Length: 5250mm; width: 1820mm; height: 1850mm Performance 0-62mph 10.5sec; top speed 100mph; range 600 miles

DRIVING THE RAPID INTERVENTION VEHICLE

To climb aboard the RIV you grab the rollcage, place a foot on the sidestep and swing up and into the deep bucket seat, before clipping yourself into the racing harness.

The functional design extends to the cockpit which, despite a wealth of dials and buttons and a large centre screen, wouldn’t impress EuroNCAP due to its unyielding bare metal construction. Still, at least the steering wheel adjusts for rake.

The dashboard is home to fuel, speed, revcounter and engine temperature gauges. At the top of the centre console is a multi-function screen showing the status of the RIV’s power distribution management system. Below that are the controls for the tyre inflation system and the RIV’s ride height. To their left is the stubby ZF shift lever.