GM to build new Jeeps Infantry Squad Vehicles
The Army has awarded GM a contract to build and maintain the Army’s new Infantry Squad Vehicle (ISV). The vehicle, essentially a specialized, larger form of jeep, is an all-terrain group carrier which can move nine soldiers through the battlefield. It must be light enough to be slung from a UH-60 “Blackhawk” helicopter, and small enough to fit within a CH-47 Chinook helicopter.
The contract is for $214 million, which buys 2,065 ISVs. The vehicle is based off the Chevy Colorado ZR2, and 90% of the parts are off the shelf, including dual spool-valve dampers. The engines will be GM 2.8 liter diesels producing 186 horsepower (torque was not released, but is likely to be over 200 lb-ft), coupled to six-speed automatics. The contract was won in partnership with Ricardo Defense, which helped develop the vehicle and will provide logistical support.
Clark Westfield grew up fixing up and driving past-their-prime American cars, including various GM and Mopar V8s. He has ghostwritten auto news for the last few years, and lives in Farmingdale, New York.