Tatra Phoenix 16-Wheel Semi Truck: A Centipede-Like Heavy Hauler with Eight Axles

The Volkswagen Beetle isn’t the only car that looks like a bug, but fortunately, most designers have stopped short of anthropomorphizing creepy and crawly critters. Form and functionality must rub up against each other occasionally, though. Such is the case with this 16-wheel-drive Tatra Phoenix semi truck, whose eight axles give it the appearance of a hundred-legged centipede.

It certainly doesn’t help that the cab lacks a long hood. Instead, since it sits over the engine, the truck appears to be rearing up on its hind quarters like it’s about to devour an ant or a worm or something. Gah, it’s giving me the creeps!

I’m sorry to even put a picture of that bug on the screen, but I thought it was helpful. Y’know, for reference.

Tatra Acknowledges the Insect Influence

Tatra itself admits the insect influence.

“One of these is multi-axle vehicles [sic], known as ‘Centipedes,’ which serve as a robust base for mounting special-purpose superstructures, such as cranes, drilling rigs, or aerial work platforms,”

Designed for Heavy-Duty Tasks

The Tatra Phoenix 16-wheel semi truck is already in use in Australia, where it supports a Bronto Skylift aerial platform. These platforms are essential for servicing high-rise buildings and tall windmills, requiring a sturdy base. With 16 wheels, the truck provides the stability needed for such demanding tasks.

The truck’s eight driven axles ensure it can navigate loose ground effectively. While it may struggle in extremely sloppy conditions due to its weight, it handles grass and mud with ease, thanks to its 12.9-liter Paccar turbodiesel engine. The Tatra Phoenix is also available with 6.7-liter and 10.8-liter Paccar engines, though the largest mill is likely standard for this model.

Maneuverability and Steerable Axles

Maneuverability is a key feature of the Tatra Phoenix. The truck is equipped with eight steerable wheels, including the rearmost axles, which enable it to make a complete turn with a radius shorter than a football field.

Until this centipede-like truck becomes a Snowrunner DLC, I’ll probably stay stuck in the mud and ice. Golly, that game is hard.

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