Ateliers de Construction Mecanique de I'Atlantique (ACMAT) developed its VLRA (Vehicule de Liaison, de Reconnaissance et d'Appui) in the late 1950s specifically for operations in the Sahara. Since then the French and other countries' armies have adopted the vehicle.

The base vehicle within the range is the VLRA 4x4. More than 60 models of this are available, including armoured, tactical, logistic and specialised variants such as ambulances.

The 4 x 4 has a conventional layout: the engine is at the front, the cab is in the centre and cargo area lies at the rear. Cab options include: soft-top and doors; soft-top with metal doors; or all-metal. The vehicle's payload is 2.5 tonnes.

A heavy-duty chassis, gearbox and suspension are used. ACMAT has designed the transfer box and axles. For durability and practicality, items such as power-assisted steering remain optional.

It is important to note the high degree of commonality of wearing parts throughout the entire VLRA range. Not only is the same diesel engine used in every vehicle (a Perkins 6.354.4 developing 138hp), but an 80%-plus commonality level exists across the entire range of 4 x 4 and 6x6 chassis and cabs.

The engines on the 6 x 6 models are uprated to 145hp (210hp for tractor trucks) and are coupled to a five-speed manual gearbox.

Detailed items are the subject of continuing research and development. However, the overall dimensions of the major components do not change, so the company is able to guarantee the availability of exchange components for the life of the vehicle.

Perkins recently ceased production of the standard engine and, when ACMAT stocks are exhausted, a fully interchangeable Cummins engine will be used. For the first time this will be offered with an option for an automatic gearbox.

In addition to dedicated trailers for the VLRA range, ACMAT also produces the Medium Tactical Vehicle family of 4 x 4,6 x 6 and 8 x 8 trucks with pay-loads ranging from five to eight tonnes.