AutoCult M113 Genius Tank 63

In the early 1960s, there was an urgent need for suitable vehicles to transport the armored infantry. Prototypes from Saurer and Mowag were tested alongside the American M-113, but unfortunately, both were not sufficiently developed. Ultimately, the decision was made in favor of the M-113, as the technical and financial risks associated with the Swiss prototypes under evaluation were deemed too high. The military relied on the troop carrier that had already been produced thousands of times in the USA, which accommodated a crew of 3 and 7 infantrymen. In 1963, the Swiss Army procured around 800 infantry fighting vehicles in combat configuration as part of the first tranche of the armament program, including command vehicles, engineer vehicles, and other versions.

The command version is visibly different from the combat version of the infantry fighting vehicle due to additional communication equipment, antennas, cable reels, canisters, etc., and internally features lighting in the troop compartment, a built-in table, 2 monitors, and a stand heater. Initially, 60 engineer vehicles were ordered, which were later increased to 120 units in the second tranche. The vehicle was equipped with a plow blade that could be moved hydraulically, allowing for leveling and clearing operations.

Technical specifications:
Empty weight: 11,000 kg
Towing capacity: 6,600 kg
Length: 4,860 mm
Width: 2,680 mm
Height: 2,500 mm
Engine: General Motors 6-cylinder diesel
Displacement: 5,200 cc
Power: 204 hp
Top speed: 65 km/h.