Tatra 813 Kolos – Photos & Video

Photo gallery of a Tatra 813 Kolos, Tatra T813 was a truck produced in Czechoslovakia by the Tatra company. The first prototype already built in 1960 utilized existing Tatra T138 assemblies in 4×4 full-time all-wheel drive, which was also another first for Tatra. After the initial trials however the designers decided to develop and expand the concepts onto 8×8 all-wheel-drive all-terrain vehicle. The basis of the design thus became the modular chassis of T813. Successor is the Tatra T815 model.

Source: Tatra 813 Kolos on Wikipedia

The Tatra 813 Kolos was a heavy-duty off-road truck produced by the Czechoslovakian company Tatra from 1967 to 1982. It featured a unique central load-bearing tube and independent suspension system, allowing for exceptional off-road capabilities. The Kolos was designed for military and civilian use, with a robust 8×8 drivetrain and a powerful diesel engine.

Design and Features:

The Tatra 813 Kolos had a distinctive appearance with its central load-bearing tube running through the middle of the vehicle. This innovative design provided superior torsional rigidity and allowed for a lower center of gravity, enhancing stability on rough terrain.

The truck was equipped with an air-cooled V12 diesel engine, producing around 180 horsepower. It had a payload capacity of up to 16 tons and could tow trailers weighing up to 32 tons, making it suitable for heavy-duty hauling tasks.

Variants and Applications:

The Tatra 813 Kolos was available in various configurations, including:

• Cargo truck
• Tractor unit for semi-trailers
• Fire engine
• Recovery vehicle
• Missile launcher

It was widely used by the Czechoslovak military and found applications in construction, mining, forestry, and other industries that required a rugged and capable off-road vehicle.

Legacy and Impact:

The Tatra 813 Kolos was renowned for its exceptional off-road performance and durability. Its unique design and capabilities made it a popular choice for demanding environments and challenging terrain. Despite its production ending in the 1980s, the Kolos left a lasting legacy in the world of heavy-duty off-road vehicles and is still highly regarded by enthusiasts and collectors.