A Unimog U 500 fitted with an MGM 500 high-capacity mulcher is displayed on Daimler’s outdoor stand J 82 at the Inter Airport 2007 trade fair in Munich.

The MULAG MGM 650 high-capacity mower is the ideal workmate for maintaining extensive areas of grass at airports with a working width of 6.5 m to complement the year-round operation of a Unimog U 400 (with M03 option) or U 500. By finely mulching the grassy areas to be mown, there is no need to remove the cut grass. Even in sensitive security areas, say near runway beacons, the MGM 650 is the right tool for the job thanks to the independent sideways movability of all the mowing heads (front 0.44 m, rear 0.85 m respectively) right through to the single use of individual mowing heads.

Thanks to the automatic parking system for the rear unit and a hydraulic pressure relief system, the high-capacity mower can be operated easily and efficiently. A hydraulic starting-off lock and an automatic mowing cutter shaft cut-out when raising the mowing heads add the final touch to the mower’s exemplary safety features.

As an all-round vehicle, the Unimog can take on jobs that differ by season, such as mowing, tunnel washing, pulling a sweeper/blower or operate as an aircraft tractor – the option to change implements flexibly according to the season ensures a high capacity utilisation and economical use of the carrier.

Since a Unimog must take into account a wide range of requirements, Mercedes-Benz maintains – especially with respect to the product range U 300, U 400 and U 500 product lines – a close partnership with leading domestic and international implement manufacturers, with whom it jointly develops and tests its vehicles and implements. The cab boasts modern styling and is made of lightweight composite-fibre material. Inside the cab all the main controls are grouped together on a central console. Optionally, all U 300 – U 500 models can be supplied with the Vario-Pilot trans­ferable steering system, which allows the steering column, instruments and pedals to be transferred from one side of the cab to the other in a matter of moments.

The U 300 – U 500 implement carrier is powered by 900-series four and six-cylinder engines with output ratings from 115 kW (156 hp) to 210 kW (286 hp). The Unimog is fitted with transmissions of up to 24 speeds and has permanent four-wheel drive with a lockable centre and rear differential. The optional tyre pressure control system can be used to reduce or increase the air pressure in the tyres. To assist with transporting and towing heavy loads, the Unimog can be fitted with a torque converter clutch.