In a significant move to modernize military logistics, Allison Transmission Holdings, Inc. has secured a multi-million dollar deal to equip the next generation of tactical trucks for the French Land Forces. The company, renowned for its high-performance mobility solutions, will provide its Specialty Series™ (SP) fully automatic transmissions for these trucks.
The French Ministry of the Armed Forces has placed a substantial order under the "Porteurs Logistiques 6 Tonnes" (PL6T) program, awarding the vehicle contract to Arquus in collaboration with Daimler Truck for the "Zetros by Arquus" vehicle. This partnership highlights a shared vision of delivering superior logistical capabilities in an era marked by rapid defense modernization and increasing operational demands.
Over the course of more than a decade, the PL6T initiative will see the production and delivery of around 7,000 defense trucks, with initial deliveries slated to commence in 2027. Each of these vehicles will utilize a three-axle configuration powered by the highly efficient Mercedes-Benz OM 460 engine, paired with Allison’s 4500 SP automatic transmission. This advanced combination is engineered to ensure operational readiness and to provide the reliability, durability, and improved driving performance essential for challenging defense operations.
Daniel Zittel, Head of Defense Sales at Daimler Truck, expressed that the decision to use the Zetros platform equipped with Allison's state-of-the-art transmission technologies underscores their commitment to deliver unparalleled solutions for the French Armed Forces. Zittel emphasized that the partnership embodies a mutual trust and commitment to producing exceptional military vehicles suitable for modern-day challenges. With the proven reliability of Allison’s transmissions, these vehicles will be well-prepared for diverse field missions.
One standout feature of the Allison 4500 SP transmission is its fully automatic functionality, allowing for seamless gear transitions without the need for manual shifting. This system employs Allison's Continuous Power Technology, ensuring that power is consistently directed to the wheels. As such, operators can maintain focus on mission objectives, smoothly navigating various terrains without disruption.
Taner Gider, Allison's Executive Director for Sales in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia Pacific, lauded the collaboration between Allison, Arquus, and Daimler Truck, describing it as a pivotal milestone in supporting evolving defense needs. He reinforced the company's global leadership position in defense vehicle propulsion and reiterated their commitment to partnering closely with clients to deliver reliable and valuable propulsion solutions for the most critical military applications. The 4500 SP transmission has already demonstrated its efficacy in some of the harshest environments, and Allison is proud to play a supporting role in the modernization of the French military's tactical capabilities.
Allison Transmission Holdings, Inc., headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, operates as a leading provider of high-performance mobility and work solutions. With over 110 years of experience, the company is dedicated to serving various sectors such as infrastructure, agriculture, energy, and national security, maintaining a vital presence in more than 150 countries worldwide. To learn more about Allison Transmission and its innovative products, visit
Allison Transmission's website.