VAN BUREN TWP., Mich., 10 Sept. 2009. Ricardo Inc., the U.S. subsidiary of Ricardo plc, has launched Ocelot, a collaboration between Ricardo and Force Protection Europe. For mil apps, this new light protected patrol vehicle (LPPV) concept offers the potential for higher standards of occupant protection and operational flexibility than today's defense light vehicle products, says a Ricardo representative.

The new Ocelot LPPV vehicle was unveiled at the Defense Systems & Equipment International Exhibition in London, England.

Ocelot brings together some of the very latest innovations in automotive and defense technologies to deliver a highly practical vehicle designed for deployment in the most demanding environments and hostile operational environments, says a company official.

Based on a modular design, Ocelot comprises a core automotive armored spine or "skateboard" onto which one of a number of alternative special to role "pods" is mounted. These roles include a patrol, fire support, or protected logistics vehicle and the pods are interchangeable in the field as the need requires.

Dave Shemmans, CEO of Ricardo plc, says: "Ocelot offers a highly practical defense vehicle solution to current and future operational requirements, while also providing unparalleled levels of occupant safety against the very real and present threats of a hostile theatre environment."