The Shadow knows hybrid tech and Rat Patrol styling
(Credit:
Army Technology)
From Basra to Kabul, no environmentally aware burkha babe is going to be able to resist this 4x4, turbo-charged, hybrid, diesel-electric recon hotrod.
Created by General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS,) the Shadow RST-V (Reconnaissance, Surveillance and Targeting Vehicle) boasts stealth, survivability and low mileage. That's big, considering that about half the military's money--and a third of its manpower--is devoted to hauling stuff around, 70 percent of that stuff being fuel.
The aluminum-bodied RST-V seats four (seating by Oregon Aero), does 70 mph and has a 470-mile range. Bulletproof windows and armor are optional. Weaponry includes your standard machine gun and grenade launcher, topped off by the Javelin anti-tank missile mounted on the roof. Recommended are the radar/laser warning receivers, likewise the GPS.
The electric stealth mode not only makes for a quiet ride, it also reduces the heat signature, allowing you to elude the infrared.
Narrower than a jeep, the Shadow still has a Hummer's cargo capacity, thanks to a patented, folding suspension system. It also puts out 30kw of electric power; enough to fire up a decent base camp at Burning Man. Did we mention it's a hatchback?
In the works since 1997, the RST-V should be ready in time for Iran.
Mark Rutherford is a West Coast-based freelance writer. He is a member of the CNET Blog Network, and is not an employee of CNET. Email him at markr@milapp.com. Disclosure. 
2nd: it looks like this is more of a german contract work, http://www.magnet-
motor.de/ look at the pictures of the 4x4 jeep, looks pretty much like the
finished project pictured here on crave....
- Stealth for Surburbia?
- by sfarch February 11, 2007 7:09 AM PST
- Hopefully there are plans for the US market - Then you wouldn't have to worry about your vulnerable suburban HumVee at night. It could finally fit in the garage.
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