Conceived and patented by German inventor, Heinrich Ernst Kniepkamp, in June of 1939, Kettenkrads saw service on the Eastern Front, North African theater and throughout Europe. Their primary uses included laying communication cables, pulling heavy loads, carrying soldiers through deep mud and towing aircraft such as the Messerschmitt 262 jet fighter.
Official Designation:
Kleines Kettenkraftrad SdKfz. 2
Manufacturer:
NSU Werke of Neckarsulm, Germany
Chassis Number:
4907946
Crew:
Three – Driver and two passengers
Engine:
Opel water-cooled four cylinder in-line with overhead valves
Drive:
6-speed transmission, with two ranges (high and low)
Horse Power:
36
Weight:
3,444 pounds
Number Built:
8,345 during World War II (10% of production was built under license by Stoewer from Stettin)
Speed:
44 miles per hour