Octamog utilizes the “more is better” concept to its full advantage by increasing the number of axles to a total of four; double the amount of most multi-terrain vehicles. This in turn distributes the weight of the vehicle over a larger and more uniform area. A simple lever alternates the driving torque to all axles, engaging all eight wheels for severe driving conditions, or four wheel drive for light terrain or roadway use.
A proven suspension system of trailing arms and panhard rods is utilized along with coil springs and telescoping shock absorbers to provide comfortable and safe ride characteristics during all vehicle operations. Octamog's cross-country capability, providing low center of gravity, high grade and slope operation and high approach and departure angle capabilities, is unmatched by any expedition recreational vehicle (and most so-called all-terrain SUV's) on the market today.
The rear steering axle contributes to a turning
radius unheard of in a vehicle of this size. Octamog's curb-to-curb turning radius is inside of 30 feet. Compare
this to a Honda Civic, which has a curb-to-curb turning radius of 34 feet, and you can see that Octamog, despite
it's size, is quite manueverable. This agility comes in handy when negotiating tight switchbacks on narrow
unpaved mountain roads.
Octamog uses standard components readily available nearly anywhere one might venture. From it's tried and true Cummins 5.9 liter diesel and Eaton/Fuller 5 speed transmission, to it's bullet-proof Dana 60 axles, nearly every component of the running gear is a standard off-the-shelf part. The chassis was designed and built for the rigors of the military, for use in the harshest environment and the most demanding conditions. This will assure you that Octamog won't leave you stranded waiting for parts in the event of an unexpected breakdown, off the beaten path.