Chinese researchers recently unveiled a fully modular, intelligent electric-drive heavy-duty vehicle in Beijing that could serve as a mobile launcher for intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs).
Developed in less than two years, the prototype combines stealth, mobility, and modular design to navigate terrain that would challenge conventional military vehicles.
Led by Tsinghua University, the project involved collaboration with multiple research institutes, including the Beijing Institute of Launch Vehicle Technology, Jilin University, Beijing Institute of Technology, and Southeast University.
The program began in January 2024 under the National Natural Science Foundation of China and aimed to revolutionize heavy-load logistics for military and industrial applications.
Modular design for flexible loads
The vehicle unveiled on December 21 uses a modular concept, allowing its wheel configuration to be scaled up or down depending on load requirements. Researchers said this design could efficiently transport everything from ICBMs to large rocket stages, transformers, and wind turbine components.
According to the Tsinghua University report, “By expanding or reducing the number of wheel modules – designed to work like building blocks – the prototype’s load capacity could be adjusted according to transport needs.”
Unlike traditional heavy-duty vehicles with fixed axles and rigid connections, this electric prototype overcomes conventional limitations. Each wheel operates independently for driving, braking, steering, and suspension.
The system is coordinated by an intelligent electronic control system, allowing the vehicle to move diagonally or sideways in a crablike manner, as reported by the South China Morning Post.
Enhanced mobility and stealth
Yang Diange from Tsinghua University’s School of Vehicles and Mobility described the vehicle as “a world first” that integrates electric drive with intelligent control.
Fully electric, the vehicle produces no exhaust smoke, emits minimal heat, and operates nearly silently, enhancing its stealth and survival rate during critical operations.
The vehicle can perform “center steering,” pivoting around its own axis to dramatically reduce turning radius. Its control system manages torque and steering for each wheel, allowing it to climb steep slopes in zigzag patterns and access areas that traditional vehicles cannot.
Electric-drive tires also suppress roll and pitch, improving stability on winding roads and at high speeds.
Reliability and future applications
The prototype eliminates complex mechanical components such as gearboxes and steering linkages, reducing potential failure points. Each wheel is powered by an individual motor, so if one fails, the others can maintain operation.
According to developers, this makes the vehicle suitable for military operations, extreme conditions, and even urban transport tasks.
Experts praised the development, highlighting its potential to reshape the future of special-purpose vehicles and vehicle engineering. The technology is now part of China’s latest new energy vehicle technology roadmap, released in October 2025 by the China Society of Automotive Engineers.
Future derivative models are expected to handle ground transport of aerospace equipment and other massive loads, demonstrating the vehicle’s dual-use potential for both defense and civilian industries.
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