Czechoslovak Group and Tatra: Driving innovation into the future with the new generation of Tatra Force Trucks
The iconic Tatra brand, part of the dynamic Czechoslovak Group, is taking bold strides into the future with the launch of the third generation of its heavy-duty Tatra Force trucks. This revolutionary upgrade marks the end of an era, as the legendary Tatra 815 gracefully steps down after more than four decades of service, making way for a significantly more sophisticated and modernized platform.
At the heart of this evolution are three major technological advancements that position the new Tatra Force at the forefront of global truck innovation. From cutting-edge powertrains to reimagined drivetrain systems, the latest Tatra trucks are designed to meet the toughest demands of today’s industries and military operations alike.
A New Generation of V8 and V12 Engines: Power Meets Intelligence
Tatra's unmistakable signature has always been its robust, air-cooled V-engines. While customers can still opt for renowned foreign powerplants from Cummins or Caterpillar, the soul of the new Force lineup remains firmly Czech, thanks to Tatra’s in-house V8 (T3-928) and V12 (T3-930) diesel engines.
The latest generation of these engines, now carrying the "RE" designation, brings significant upgrades. They are equipped with advanced turbochargers manufactured by ČZ and utilize a high-precision mechanical inline fuel injection pump by Motorpal, combined with a new electronically controlled regulator linked to an electronic engine management unit.
This integration of electronics allows the new engines to support cutting-edge vehicle safety and operational systems required by EU regulations (General Safety Regulation – GSR). As a result, the new Tatra Force trucks can now feature emergency braking systems, adaptive cruise control, and sophisticated drivetrain management tools. Electronic engine control also enables remote parameter monitoring and optimized vehicle operation via the new digital dashboard and onboard computer.
Despite their modern electronic sophistication, the new V8 RE and V12 RE engines maintain extraordinary versatility. Available in Euro III, Euro V, and non-emission versions (for special military or industrial applications), these engines deliver power outputs ranging from 300 to 368 kW (V8) and 440 to 515 kW (V12). They are capable of operating on alternative fuels, including high-sulfur diesel and aviation kerosene, while meeting strict electromagnetic compatibility and battlefield durability standards. Their robust design ensures reliable starts even in extreme temperatures down to -32°C, continuing Tatra’s tradition of durability in the harshest environments.
Manual Shifting Reinvented: The F-Shift System
Embracing modernity without abandoning tradition, Tatra introduces the revolutionary F-shift system for its manual transmissions. The new F-shift technology retains the familiar "H-pattern" gear lever feel but connects it to the gearbox electronically rather than mechanically.
Drivers simply engage the clutch and select the gear as usual – but with F-shift, they no longer need to wait for mechanical confirmation before releasing the clutch. The electronic system finalizes the gear change seamlessly and safely, improving both driving comfort and speed while protecting the drivetrain from potential damage due to incorrect shifting or engine overrevving.
Currently offered in 10- and 14-speed configurations, the F-shift transmission will soon be streamlined into optimized combinations tailored to different customer needs based on chassis type, drivetrain complexity, and front-axle configurations. This will make the selection process easier for customers and enhance production efficiency.
A Breakthrough in Axle Design: The "True Planetary" Revolution
Tatra has been synonymous with central load-carrying tube chassis and independently suspended swinging half-axles for nearly a century. However, the company's engineers have now redefined this hallmark design with the introduction of the "true planetary" axle concept.
Previously, Tatra's "false planetary" arrangement required different axle offsets depending on whether reduction gears were fitted, resulting in considerable manufacturing complexity. In contrast, the new "true planetary" setup standardizes the design: in every configuration, the left half-axle is consistently placed ahead of the right, regardless of reduction gearing.
This modernization, the product of a rigorous seven-year development and extensive real-world testing, significantly increases component standardization, simplifies production, and boosts axle load capacities — up to 12 tonnes for steered axles and an impressive 16 tonnes for non-steered ones.
Additionally, the new axles offer the flexibility to fit either drum or disc brakes on vehicles with or without reduction gears, whereas previously disc brakes were only available on certain models. This innovation not only improves load-bearing performance but also elevates braking efficiency and maintenance simplicity, ensuring that the new Tatra Force remains a leader in off-road and heavy-duty vehicle reliability.
Driving Forward: A Proud Legacy of Innovation
The third generation of Tatra Force is a shining example of how Czechoslovak Group and Tatra continue to honor their legacy of rugged, purpose-built vehicles while embracing the most modern technologies. Every element — from the new cabins offering industry-leading safety, comfort, and climate control systems to the deeply reengineered engines, transmissions, and axles — reflects a commitment to excellence, performance, and customer-driven innovation.
As the world demands more capable, flexible, and intelligent heavy trucks, Tatra stands ready to deliver vehicles that thrive in the world’s most challenging conditions. Whether in defense, construction, logistics, or emergency response, the new Tatra Force is set to carry forward a proud tradition into an even more exciting future.
