The project centers on a redesigned transfer case developed to replace imports for the heaviest trucks, with a gross vehicle weight rating around 34 tons. The prior transfer solution, referred to as RK, suited up to 27-ton applications but did not meet the performance demands of the newer, heavier fleet. To advance this capability, a scientific collaboration was established with the South Ural State University, a partner with a track record of successful initiatives in the Urals, including the Arctic Bus program developed for the Far North. This alliance underscores a broader effort to bolster regional innovation and domestic production in demanding vehicle segments.
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In the strategic plan, a new transmission unit is slated for development over a three-year horizon. The program envisions designing and bringing to production three variants of transfer cases, each differentiated by input torque rating. The target torque levels are 1200, 1800, and 2500 kgf·m, respectively. When fully realized, these transfer cases are intended to equip the entire spectrum of all-wheel-drive Ural vehicles, expanding capability across the company’s lineup and enabling improved performance in challenging terrains and operational conditions.
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The project aligns with a broader push to modernize heavy-vehicle drivetrains, reduce reliance on imports, and strengthen regional expertise in drive system engineering. By leveraging academic collaboration, the program seeks to accelerate iteration, testing, and scaling of the new transfer cases, ensuring reliability under varied load scenarios and road conditions encountered in rugged service environments.
The initiative reflects a long-term commitment to advancing powertrain technology for heavy industrial and military-utility applications, while maintaining a focus on safety, efficiency, and operational readiness. Through staged development and production trials, the team aims to validate performance targets, optimize weight distribution, and verify durability across extended duty cycles. This approach is designed to deliver tangible gains in traction, torque management, and overall vehicle control for fleet operators and users in demanding settings.
Source: Ural Automobile Plant