DE
Manufacturer: ACE
Item number: 85.005535
EAN Code: 8900672055358
Recommended age: 14+
Material: resin
Color: olive green
Scale: 1:43
Length: 151 mm
Width: 55 mm
Height: 82 mm
Weight: 158 g
For all Vierlivier models, the first step was to find the 100% correct prototypes. The FBW, Berna or Saurer lettering in the upper or lower third of the radiator grille; different depending on the year of delivery. A high or low hatch on the cab roof; depending on the year of delivery. Shadow black or military green; depending on year of delivery. Troop identification plate; early vintages did not yet have one. Control plate imprint on the front of the canopy; only both very old models, etc., etc.. At first sight, all Vierlivier seem to be identical, except for the manufacturer's marks Saurer, Berna or FBW. In detail, however, differences become apparent, which can only be seen on closer inspection. Thanks to Max Martin's extensive knowledge, we were able to assign all details to the correct vehicles. Thus, even the collector can assume that everything on his sophisticated Swiss military model is correctly represented. Up to and including the correct matriculation and the adequate labeling of the troop identification plate.
In the military jargon of motorists, one generally speaks of the "Vierlivier". This refers to the 4x4 all-wheel drive truck from Saurer, Berna or FBW. A term that has lasted for decades and has also made the leap into civilian everyday language. This is mainly due to the fact that very many men of the Swiss population have done military service and this type of vehicle was used for decades by all types of troops. Two main features were to distinguish the future military truck, which was tendered at the time at the instigation of the KTA (Kriegstechnische Abteilung): The permanent four-wheel drive, which guaranteed better traction, and the new front link design which, together with the short wheelbase, resulted in a maneuverable vehicle. The type families of the three manufacturers were to include 3.5 t and 5 t payloads, or 6 t for the tipper, which corresponded to the legislation of the time for medium and heavy trucks. Thus, between 1950 and 1962, a total of 1496 4x4 trucks were procured. There were nine different variants, which had different superstructures according to their use. The largest part, however, was the "five-ton" Saurer 4CM, Berna 4 UM or FBW AX40 as so-called "Blachenwagen" with 32+2 seats.
Pictures ©Max Martin
In the military jargon of motorists, one generally speaks of the "Vierlivier". This refers to the 4x4 all-wheel drive truck from Saurer, Berna or FBW. A term that has lasted for decades and has also made the leap into civilian everyday language. This is mainly due to the fact that very many men of the Swiss population have done military service and this type of vehicle was used for decades by all types of troops. Two main features were to distinguish the future military truck, which was tendered at the time at the instigation of the KTA (Kriegstechnische Abteilung): The permanent four-wheel drive, which guaranteed better traction, and the new front link design which, together with the short wheelbase, resulted in a maneuverable vehicle. The type families of the three manufacturers were to include 3.5 t and 5 t payloads, or 6 t for the tipper, which corresponded to the legislation of the time for medium and heavy trucks. Thus, between 1950 and 1962, a total of 1496 4x4 trucks were procured. There were nine different variants, which had different superstructures according to their use. The largest part, however, was the "five-ton" Saurer 4CM, Berna 4 UM or FBW AX40 as so-called "Blachenwagen" with 32+2 seats.
Pictures ©Max Martin
As with any model, the challenge at the beginning is to find a vehicle that is virtually 100% like the prototype. This is not always easy. We often work closely with the owners of the original vehicles, with specialists, but also with the Swiss Army or museums where unbuilt examples can be found. Then we have to prepare the data for our partner in China. The complete procurement of information with exact measurements of the original vehicle, color matching, detailed photos, also of the interior, usually takes a good 3 months. Even if plans of the vehicle are available, we still shoot almost 150-200 pictures until all details are captured. Once all the relevant data has been submitted, the first prototype is on our desk after a good 6 months. Of course, it is still unpainted and without chrome trim, but we can check the measurements and assess the shape and appearance. If necessary, corrections are made and then the first painted prototype is produced. This is also checked for all details. Mostly it still requires small modifications, which can be made only if a completely painted hand sample stands there. If the evaluation of the second sample is positive, the production process can be started. Until the model has passed all stations, at least 12-15 months have passed. And the transport by ship to Europe and by truck to Switzerland takes another 2 months. In summary, it takes a good year and a half to realize a model.
