This extreme drivetrain and steering layout features four axles where every wheel receives engine power and can turn to steer the vehicle. It provides massive traction along with an incredibly tight turning circle for such a large chassis. Mechanics mostly encounter this setup on specialized mobile cranes, military armor, and heavy rescue rigs.
Heard on the job
Check the hydraulic lines on all four axles, this 8x8x8 has a leak in the rear steering circuit.
Related terms
8x8
A heavy-duty vehicle configuration featuring eight wheels that all receive power from the drivetrain.
4WS
A steering system that actively turns both the front and rear wheels to improve maneuverability and stability.
6x6
A vehicle configuration featuring six wheels where all six receive power from the drivetrain.