Editing Unimog (section)

== Users ==
=== Military ===
The Unimog was never meant to be a military vehicle; Allied permission to develop the Unimog was granted only because Albert Friedrich, inventor of the Unimog, ensured that the Unimog would not have any military purpose.<ref name=Vogler_2015 />{{rp|6}} However, the Unimog has always been used as a military vehicle. 44 Unimogs of the first model, the [[Unimog 70200]], served as combat engineer tractors in the Swiss army. They proved successful, and the Swiss army purchased 540 units of the 70200's successor, the [[Unimog 2010]]. These early Swiss military vehicles were known as ″Dieseli″. The Dieseli-Unimogs remained in service until 1989.<ref name=Vogler_2015 />{{rp|32}} Officers of the French army, then occupying forces in Germany, noted the Unimog testing at the Sauberg in the early 1950s and considered the Unimog useful for patrolling purposes. Soon after, the French army purchased Unimogs of the series 2010 and 401. The Unimog proved to be so successful that Daimler-Benz was ordered to develop an entirely new Unimog just for military purposes. This new model was supposed to be a small 1.5-tonne truck, capable of carrying 10 to 12 soldiers on its bed, at a speed of up to 90&nbsp;km/h, rather than being an agricultural tractor. Being a NATO member state, France demanded that the military Unimog would have an engine running on petrol.<ref name=Vogler_2015 />{{rp|41}} Daimler-Benz decided to use an Otto cycle engine, the M 180, displacing 2.2 litres, and producing 85&nbsp;PS (63&nbsp;kW).<ref name=Vogler_2015 />{{rp|47}} The military Unimog would later be known as [[Unimog 404]] or Unimog S.

In total, 64,242 units of the Unimog 404 were produced, which makes it the Unimog with the highest production figure. 36,638 Unimog 404 were purchased by the German Bundeswehr.<ref name=Vogler_2015 />{{rp|43}} Apart from the Bundeswehr, many different [[Military|military forces]] have either used the Unimog in the past or still make use of it today. In addition to the military series 404, several civilian models have been adapted for military use. In Argentina, the series 426, actually a version of the civilian series 416 produced under licence, was made for the Argentinian, Chilean, Peruvian and Bolivian military. In total, 2643 units of the series 426 were made. The Argentinian made Unimog 431, which was a licensed version of the civilian series 421, was also used as a military vehicle, mainly as a self-propelled [[howitzer]]. Another civilian Unimog that was mainly used a military vehicle, is the series 418.<ref name=Vogler_2016 />{{rp|122}}

The military Unimogs are used as troop transportation vehicles, [[ambulance]]s, and mobile [[command center]]s equipped with [[Military communications#Military communications equipment|military communications equipment]]. The [[United States Marine Corps]] and [[United States Army]] uses the [[Unimog 419]] as an engineer tractor, while the [[United States Army]] also uses Unimog vehicles to access remote installations. In total, 2416 Unimog 419 were made, and only used by United States Forces.<ref name="Vogler_2009">{{cite book |author-first=Carl-Heinz |author-last=Vogler |title=Das Unimog-Typenbuch: Die komplette Modellgeschichte |lang=de |publisher=GeraMond |place=München |date=2009 |isbn=978-3-7654-7699-0}}</ref>{{rp|81}} Modern Unimogs also serve as military vehicles, and the current Unimog 437.4 chassis is used for the [[ATF Dingo]]. More than 5,500 Unimogs are in active service in the [[Turkish Armed Forces]]. They were produced by Mercedes-Benz Türk.

<gallery class=center>
File:Gaggenau 2016 -Unimog-Museum- by-RaBoe 049 (cropped).jpg|Swiss army ″Dieseli″ [[Unimog 2010]]
File:Unimog S 404 (Sp 2014-06-15) (cropped).JPG|The first Unimog solely designed for military purposes, the [[Unimog 404]] from 1955
File:UNIMOGEA.JPG|[[Argentine Army]] Unimog 426
File:Unimog 4x4 engineering vehicle.JPEG|Unimog 419
File:Dingo 2.jpg|[[ATF Dingo]]
File:Mercedes Benz Unimog 2 (cropped).JPG|Mercedes Benz Unimog locally produced in Turkey and still widely used by [[Turkish Land Forces]]
File:Belgian Army, BAS 24, Brussels (P1170145).jpg|A 2022 model of [[Jankel]] Light Transport Tactical Vehicle used by [[Special Forces Group (Belgium)]]
File:Mercedes-Benz_Unimog_U_5000.jpg|An Unimog U5000 of the [[German Army]] with an armoured cabin.
</gallery>

=== Civilian ===
Unimogs are used by the German emergency management agency [[Technisches Hilfswerk]] (THW),<ref>[http://www.bagger-und-bahnen.de/lkw-unimog/Unimog-THW-Straubing-BA.jpg] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061019205149/http://www.bagger-und-bahnen.de/lkw-unimog/Unimog-THW-Straubing-BA.jpg|date=October 19, 2006}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.thw-worms.de/ov/ausstattung/mog.jpg |format=JPG |title=Photographic image |publisher=Thw-worms.de |access-date=2015-09-05}}</ref>(literally ''Technical Relief Organization''), by [[fire department]]s<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.unimogfreunde.de/Bildergalerie/MediaService/U4000/U4000Waldbrand.jpg |format=JPG |title=Photographic image |publisher=Unimogfreunde.de |access-date=2015-09-05}}</ref> and [[municipality|municipalities]] as utility vehicles. They can be used as material handlers, auxiliary power providers ([[Electrical generator|generators]]), and equipment carriers.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.unimogfreunde.de/News_Ticker/2003/101103/Maehwerk.jpg |format=JPG |title=Photographic image |publisher=Unimogfreunde.de |access-date=2015-09-05}}</ref> Their ability to operate off-road, in high water, or mud, makes it easier to access remote areas in emergency situations.<ref>Weinand, Georg - [https://www.eurotransport.de/artikel/hochwasser-in-bosnien-unimog-erweist-sich-als-katastrophenfest-6559169.html Hochwasser in Bosnien Unimog erweist sich als katastrophenfest (High Water in Bosnian Unimog proves catastrophe-proof)] Eurotransport.de, July 1, 2014. Translation: ''According to Mercedes-Benz, the Unimogs were able to demonstrate their characteristic properties during their mission in Bosnia. This included the high off-road mobility, traction, twisting and climbing ability as well as the fording depth of up to 1.20 meters. In addition, the large ground clearance and the short frame overhang with a slope angle of up to 44 degrees were an advantage.''</ref> They are commonly used in snow removal where other vehicles might not be able to operate. Many [[Alpine climate|Alpine]] towns and districts are equipped with one or more Unimog snow blowers to clear narrow mountain roads that have drifted closed.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.unimogfreunde.de/Bilder_Veranstaltungen/2005/Henne_Unimog_Leristungsschau/Fotoalbum/Winterdienst_Leistungsschau.htm |title=Henne-Unimog Winterdienst-Leistungsschau in Inzell Oberbayerische Unimogfreunde |publisher=Unimogfreunde.de |access-date=2011-01-02}}</ref>

In [[construction]], Unimogs are used as carriers of equipment and, with the optional extended cabin,<ref>[http://www.bagger-und-bahnen.de/lkw-unimog/Unimog-KBT-BEARB.jpg] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927044751/http://www.bagger-und-bahnen.de/lkw-unimog/Unimog-KBT-BEARB.jpg|date=September 27, 2007}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.unimog-forever.com/Specialties/6x6-CrewCab/dLesa.htm |title=6 x 6 Doppelkabine |publisher=Unimog-forever.com |access-date=2011-01-02}}</ref> also of workers. They can be equipped with a [[backhoe]], [[Loader (equipment)|front loader]], or other contracting equipment. On [[rail transport|railroads]], Unimogs are used as [[rail car mover]]s and [[road-rail vehicle]]s. They have also been used in [[mining]] areas, like seen in Gold Bridge, BC{{huh|date=June 2023}}, Canada.

In [[agriculture]], Unimogs are used to operate [[List of farm implements|farm equipment]]. While most farm field implement operations are now performed by a [[tractor]], Unimogs are used to haul produce, machinery and animals. They are also used around the [[Barnyard|farmyard]] to run [[Tree chipper|chippers]], [[auger (drill)|grain augers]], and conveyors.

Unimogs are also used as a [[Prime mover (tractor unit)|prime mover]], to pull heavy trailers, large wheeled conveyances<ref>[http://www.bagger-und-bahnen.de/lkw-unimog/Unimog-bremen-voigt-BEARB.jpg] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927044807/http://www.bagger-und-bahnen.de/lkw-unimog/Unimog-bremen-voigt-BEARB.jpg|date=September 27, 2007}}</ref> and [[jet airliners]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.unimogfreunde.de/Bildergalerie/MediaService/U900/U900Flugzeugschlepper.jpg |format=JPG |title=Photographic image |publisher=Unimogfreunde.de |access-date=2015-09-05}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.unimogfreunde.de/Bildergalerie/Ziegler/U1600_Flugzeug.JPG |format=JPG |title=Photographic image |publisher=Unimogfreunde.de |access-date=2015-09-05}}</ref> Often, only the front half, (an OEM part), is combined with a tailor-made rear.<ref name=Vogler_2016 />{{rp|68}}<ref name=Vogler_2014 />{{rp|94-95}}

Unimogs are used as tourist transport<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.medicont.de/templates/kundenbilder/475_1080128946_big.jpg |format=JPG |title=Photographic image |publisher=Medicont.de |access-date=2015-09-05}}</ref> for jungle [[ecotourism]] or [[safaris]].

<gallery class=center>
File:2010-04-07 Unimog at Arthur Ibbetts machinery dealership.jpg|The modular design offers attachment capabilities for various different [[List of agricultural machinery|implements]]. Here shown with a flail hedge and verge trimmer implement used in [[agroforestry]].
File:2Mercedes-Benz Unimog mit Mäharm.jpg|Unimog [[Mower|mowing]] in [[Germany]]
Two-way-vehicle unimog.jpg|Unimog 405/UGN [[road-rail vehicle]] used as a [[rail car mover]]
File:Unimog U400 at Hohenzollerndamm - Gieselerstraße in 2016.jpg|Unimog 405/UGN with [[Hydrauliska Industri AB|HIAB]] crane used at a construction site
2009 08 22 Weelde 155520 (3868876302).jpg|[[Unimog 406]] "front half" OEM part made vehicle for moving 20' containers
RW1 Marxloh.jpg|Technical rescue fire engine ''RW1'', a common Unimog-based fire engine in Germany, based on the [[Unimog 435]].115 (U&nbsp;1300&nbsp;L)
Mercedes benz unimog u4000 thw schwerin.jpg|Crew lorry ''MLW 2'' of the [[Technisches Hilfswerk|THW]], based on the Unimog 437 (U&nbsp;4000)
File:S404-300TDI-erg-chebbi.jpg|Unimog S404 used as mobile home in the Dunes of Erg Chebbi in Morocco. Note the high ground clearance due to portal gear axles
</gallery>

=== North America ===
[[File:Almost new looking UNIMOG in Baltimore, Maryland, US.jpg|thumb|left|Unimog [[Pickup truck|pickup]] in [[Baltimore, Maryland]]]]
Unimogs have been uncommon in North America because of differing vehicle regulations and requirements from those in Germany, and due to the lack of a North American sales and support network. Most Unimog models found in North America have been imported by individual dealers or independent enthusiasts.

Between 1975 and 1980 the [[Case Corporation]] (now merged into [[CNH Industrial#CNH Global|CNH Global]]) imported the U-900 model into the United States and sold it through Case tractor dealerships as the MB4/94.

In 2002 [[DaimlerChrysler]] tried to re-enter the North American market with the Unimog and engaged in four years of aggressive marketing, which included activities such as; truck and trade shows, exposure on the television show ''[[Modern Marvels]]'', numerous magazine articles and extensive demonstrations (both touring and on an individual basis). They were generally sold through [[Freightliner Trucks|Freightliner]] truck dealerships.<ref>{{Cite web |first=Bill |last=Cawthon  |url=http://www.allpar.com/model/ram/unimog.html |title=Freightliner and the Unimog |date=2001 |website=allpar.com |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080517042926/http://www.allpar.com/model/ram/unimog.html |archive-date=2008-05-17 |quote=Freightliner LLC expects to sell about 300 Unimogs in the U.S. in 2002}}</ref> Freightliner is a Daimler AG subsidiary. The UGN series was specifically manufactured for the North American market and was significantly different mechanically from its European counterpart.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.parker.waaps.com/uk/lit_page705c.html?page=2095&id=158 |title=DaimlerChrysler Unimog: all-Parker connectors for braking system |publisher=Parker.waaps.com |access-date=2011-09-23 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111002153602/http://www.parker.waaps.com/uk/lit_page705c.html?page=2095&id=158 |archive-date=2011-10-02}}</ref> The UGN faced stiff competition in North America by manufacturers whose truck or equipment lines performed some of the same duties as the Unimog. Some of them are [[Caterpillar Inc.|Caterpillar]], [[John Deere]], [[AM General]], [[Sterling Trucks]] (also a Daimler AG subsidiary), and [[General Motors]]. After five years and selling only 184 Unimogs, Freightliner LLC exited the market. Daimler AG cited non-compliance with EPA07 emission requirements as the main reason for ceasing North American sales.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://allthingsgerman.blogspot.com/2009/03/unimog-in-usa-no-more.html |title=All Things German: UNIMOG in USA no more |publisher=Allthingsgerman.blogspot.com |date=2009-03-18 |access-date=2015-09-05}}</ref>

=== Motorsport ===
[[File:Unimog u500 dakar 2006.jpg|thumb|Unimog in the [[2006 Dakar Rally]]]]
[[File:Unimog U1600.jpg|thumb|left|Mud bogging Unimog 427]]

Unimogs have been used in three kinds of competition: [[Dakar Rally]] and other desert [[:Category:Rally competitions|rally competitions]], [[mud bogging]], and slow-moving [[Off-roading#Trials|Truck Trials]] over obstacles.

Unimogs have won the truck class of the Dakar in 1982 and 1986, the latter an unexpected victory as the vehicle participated for Honda, primarily to provide support for the motorcycles of the team.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.dakar.com/2009/DAK/presentation/docs/histo_1979_2007_us.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110515053140/http://www.dakar.com/2009/DAK/presentation/docs/histo_1979_2007_us.pdf |archive-date=2011-05-15|title=Dakar Retrospective 1979-2007|quote=Vismara-Minelli, on their Mercedes Unimog, are the unexpected winners in the truck class.}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Minelli, passion to the nth degree |url=https://www.dakar.com/en/news//stage-11/car/minelli-passion-to-the-nth-degree/166820 |quote=No matter how hard that edition or how late they reached the bivouacs in Africa, Giacomo and Giulio, then in their prime, started their night shift after sunset: "We provided support for the Italian factory Honda bikers, Orioli, Balestrieri and De Petri, so we used to maintain and repair their bikes at the end of each stage".}}</ref> High-powered factory-sponsored entries of truck companies aiming for the overall win have since taken the laurels, with Unimogs used mainly for service purposes.