Official Torsus Terrastorm 4x4 Ambulance: wading package, locking differential
The Torsus Terrastorm 4x4 Ambulance comes with a 2.0-liter biturbo diesel engine with 177 hp/132 kW, 302 lb-ft (409 Nm) of torque, an 8-speed AT, and AWD. The “extreme wading” package with up to 20 inches of water, a full differential lock, and a low-range transfer case starts at around $154,000.
The Torsus Terrastorm 4x4 Ambulance is a dedicated rescue variant developed from the VW Crafter/MAN TGE 4Motion platform, aiming at the ability to access remote areas and harsh conditions. The recent flash floods in Europe are one of the reasons for this product's birth, along with real customer demand. This article reviews the Torsus Terrastorm from a technical perspective, focusing on the Ambulance's off-road capabilities, transmission configuration and medical customization.
The Ambulance retains the standard Terrastorm structure but adds a local-compliant rescue and recovery system, plus key changes for deep-water terrain: an “extreme wading” snorkel and vent, waterproof door seals, and an optional Torsus-developed heavy-duty (HD) 4x4 drivetrain with a full-lock differential and low-range transfer case. The goal is to ensure accessibility, stability, and reliability in extreme scenarios where conventional ambulances may struggle.
Exterior: design language, dimensions, competitor comparison
The design focuses on function, prioritizing protection and recognition. The vehicle is completed according to local regulations, including Battenburg reflective decals, LED warning lights, emergency siren and loudspeakers. The standard Terrastorm chassis comes with reinforced suspension, skid plates, protective coating, ventilation system, and off-road wheels; with dozens of expansion options. Standard ground clearance is 10 inches (≈254 mm). Overall dimensions and tire/brake specifications: unknown.
Customers can choose between short and long wheelbases and a variety of roof configurations. This approach allows for fine-tuning the appearance according to the mission (evacuation, patient transport, or mobile laboratory). Compared to road ambulances, the Terrastorm prioritizes durability and ground clearance, targeting rough terrain and shallow to medium flooding.
Interior & comfort: materials, screens, connectivity, space
Interiors are customized to meet local health department requirements and standards. Equipment items may include:
- Electrical and oxygen supply systems.
- Soundproofing medical compartments.
- Defibrillator, electrocardiograph (ECG).
- Resuscitation backpack, ventilator, stretcher.
Entertainment/infotainment interfaces: unknown. Seat layout and patient compartment volume: unknown. However, the “order-to-task” nature allows for optimal equipment storage space and medical staff movement during first aid.
Engine & performance: specs, driving experience, 0–100, consumption
All Terrastorm models, including the Ambulance, are powered by a 2.0-liter biturbo diesel engine that produces 177 hp (132 kW) and 302 lb-ft (409 Nm) of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Combined fuel economy is estimated at 26 mpg (9.0 l/100 km). 0–100 km/h time: unknown.
Customers have two drivetrain options: keep the VW/MAN 4Motion or upgrade to the in-house Torsus-developed HD 4x4 system. The HD version adds a full differential lock and a low-ratio transfer case, tested in extreme conditions at the Tatra test track. As the drivetrain designation suggests, this is an AWD configuration, emphasizing traction and control in rough terrain.
Wading capabilities are significantly improved with the “extreme wading” package: a flow-optimized snorkel and breather to reduce pressure loss, a high mounting position in the engine compartment, and watertight door seals; allowing for wading through water up to 20 inches deep. This upgrade is suitable for flash flood scenarios, while also increasing readiness for remote rescue missions.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine | Diesel 2.0 biturbo |
| Capacity | 177 hp (≈132 kW) |
| Torque | 302 lb-ft (≈409 Nm) |
| Gear | 8-speed AT |
| Drive | AWD; optional 4Motion or 4x4 HD (locking differential, low-range) |
| 0–100 km/h | unknown |
| Consume | approximately 26 mpg (≈9.0 l/100 km) |
| Ground clearance | 10 inches (≈254 mm) – standard |
| Wading ability | Up to 20 inches (≈508 mm) with the “extreme wading” package |
Safety: active/passive, ADAS, NCAP standard
The vehicle is completed according to local regulations, with additional LED emergency lights, horn, loudspeaker and warning stickers for increased recognition. Active/passive safety equipment, ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) and NCAP certification: unknown.
Price & Version
The Torsus Terrastorm 4x4 Ambulance is now available for sale, starting at around $154,000. Related configurations and variants:
- Wheelbase: short (SWB)/long (LWB); various roof height options.
- Drivetrain: 4Motion (VW/MAN) or 4x4 HD Torsus (full differential lock, low-range).
- “Extreme wading” package (snorkel, vent, waterproof door seals).
- Versions were commissioned: evacuation, transport, mobile laboratory.
- Medical compartment options by category: electricity/oxygen, soundproofing, defibrillator, ECG, resuscitation backpack, ventilator, stretcher…
Price in each market, operating and maintenance costs: unknown. Direct comparison with competitors in the same off-road ambulance segment: unknown due to lack of public data.
Conclusion: Concise pros/cons
- Pros: Mission-oriented off-road capability (AWD, locking differential, low-range); wading package up to 20 inches; reinforced chassis, skid plates; extensive medical customization; tested in extreme conditions.
- Limitations/Unknown: dimensions, payload and performance data (0–100 km/h); ADAS/NCAP equipment; market-specific cost of ownership.
The Torsus Terrastorm 4x4 Ambulance demonstrates a pragmatic approach: taking a durable commercial platform, reinforcing the chassis and drivetrain, and specializing the medical compartment to tackle difficult missions in remote areas or during natural disasters.
