The Bucher Duro (Durable Robust) is a Swiss multi-purpose military transport vehicle designed to travel over rugged terrain. It is similar to the Austrian Pinzgauer but has a higher payload than the Pinzgauer and weighs a mere 2.8 tons with a load rating of 3 tons. This vehicle belongs to Thomas and Claudia, and I (the author) had the pleasure of meeting them and the vehicle above the blue city of Chefcheouen, Morocco, three years ago.
VM Motori 3.75-liter V6 Turbocharged Diesel
This vehicle is a compact head-turner. The Duro is powered by an Italian VM Motori 3.75-liter V6 turbocharged diesel engine, developing 150 horsepower. It is mated to a Mercedes-Benz automatic transmission located at the rear of the vehicle. The vehicle is designed to be technically straightforward; as such, it is possible for mechanics in remote and developing regions to conduct repairs without having to connect a laptop for analysis.
The Duro boasts full-time all-wheel drive and is perfect for couples or solo travelers who enjoy off-road exploration. The front and rear suspension are connected via a pivot stabilizer, allowing the two axles to flex in opposite directions. When both axles flex in the same direction, the pivot acts as a stabilizer. This suspension system consists of two sizeable U-shaped axle location bars, which have three mounting points, two on the axles and one center on the frame. Two small stabilizers interconnect these bars. These stabilizers prevent the axle location bars from moving when the vehicle tilts to one side, and the location bars become a spring that supports the vehicle.
The Duro features interchangeable bodies that could be changed by using a crane or lifting legs, much like the Nimbl camper or similar flatbed mounted camper. Imagine having one body for overland travel and another for general everyday use and off-road travel. Due to the narrow width of 6 feet and 4 inches (with folded outside mirrors) and length just shy of 20-feet, the vehicle is maneuverable and can easily navigate both tight trails and city streets.
The two-door cab is constructed from lightweight, non-corrosive plastic and aluminum and can be tilted forward for engine access and maintenance.
Bucher DURO 4×4
- 83,200 miles
- Model year 2000
- Original military case, insulated
- VM System V6, 3.8 liter engine
- Mercedes transmission
- Original diesel tank, 120 liters
Distinguishing Features
- Additional stainless steel diesel tank 100 liters
- 2.2-pound gas tank bottle with worldwide adapters
- Additional transmission oil cooler
- Hydraulic cab tilt
- 13×20-foot sun awning with piping
- Three solar panels with 130 Watt each and one MPPT Victron Energy 100/30 with Victron power management system with a 2000-watt inverter and 200Ah LiFePo battery
- 2 x 130-liter water tanks, with Katadyn water filter (activated carbon, ceramic)
- Kissmann compressor refrigerator 100 liters with ice compartment
- Dry separation toilet with ventilator
The Bucher Duro is listed for $175,000 and is currently located in Mexico with Swiss plates.
An interview conducted by Everlanders can be seen here with a full breakdown of the entire rig as well as the interior.
You can find more technical details here, however, it is in German and will have to be translated.
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