Is It Feasible to Use Tracks Over Wheels on an 8x8 Vehicle

[MikePhua]

Hybrid Mobility Concepts in Military and Civilian Engineering
The idea of combining tracks and wheels on a single platform—particularly an 8x8 chassis—is not new, but its feasibility depends heavily on the intended application, terrain, and engineering constraints. Tracks offer superior traction, flotation, and load distribution on soft or uneven ground, while wheels provide speed, efficiency, and simplicity on hard surfaces. The challenge lies in integrating both systems without compromising reliability, steering, or maintenance.
In military contexts, tracked vehicles like the M2 Bradley or Russian BMP series dominate in off-road performance, while wheeled platforms such as the Stryker or Boxer excel in rapid deployment and fuel economy. The concept of tracks-over-wheels aims to merge these advantages, but it introduces complex mechanical and control issues.
Engineering Challenges of Tracks Over Wheels
Mounting tracks over wheels—especially on an 8x8 configuration—requires solving several problems:

• Track tension and alignment: Maintaining consistent tension across multiple axles is difficult. Misalignment can lead to derailing or uneven wear.
  
• Hysteresis and chunking: Rubber tracks over pneumatic or solid tires can suffer from hysteresis (energy loss due to deformation) and chunking (tearing of rubber), especially under high torque or sharp turns.
  
• Steering complexity: Traditional steering mechanisms are ineffective when tracks span multiple axles. Skid steering becomes necessary, which increases tire wear and demands precise control logic.
  
• Weight and power distribution: Tracks add significant unsprung weight. Ensuring even power delivery across all wheels under the track requires advanced drivetrain management.
  

Some manufacturers have experimented with partial track systems. For example, ST Kinetics showcased a concept vehicle with tracks mounted over the front axles of an 8x8 platform, allowing skid steering in off-road conditions while retaining wheel steering on roads. This hybrid approach reduces complexity but limits full-track benefits.
Existing Civilian Applications and Adaptations
In the civilian sector, skid steers and compact loaders have successfully used bolt-on track systems over wheels. Brands like McLaren and Loegering offer track kits that wrap around solid tires, enhancing traction in mud or snow. These systems are:

• Heavy and time-consuming to install
  
• Effective in low-speed, high-torque environments
  
• Limited in steering flexibility and unsuitable for highway speeds
  

Oilfield operators in Canada have adopted modular track systems from companies like Right Tracks, which offer rebuildable, lightweight track kits for boggy terrain. These are often used on 4x4 or 6x6 vehicles but rarely on full 8x8 platforms due to cost and complexity.
Potential Solutions and Innovations
To make tracks-over-wheels viable on an 8x8:

• Use dual-mode steering: Combine conventional steering for road use with hydraulic skid steering for off-road.
  
• Integrate track tension sensors and automatic adjusters to maintain alignment.
  
• Employ solid tires with reinforced sidewalls to reduce deformation under track pressure.
  
• Design modular track segments that can be removed or deployed based on terrain.
  
• Utilize electric hub motors for precise torque control across all wheels.
  

These innovations require significant investment and testing. Military R&D departments and advanced robotics firms are best positioned to pursue such hybrid mobility systems.
Conclusion
Tracks-over-wheels on an 8x8 vehicle is technically feasible but operationally complex. While partial implementations exist in both military and civilian contexts, full-scale adoption demands breakthroughs in steering, suspension, and track management. For now, most engineers prefer dedicated tracked or wheeled platforms tailored to specific environments. However, as terrain-adaptive mobility becomes more critical in both defense and disaster response, hybrid systems may find their place in future vehicle design.