Looking like a mix between a snowmobile, a dog sled and a miniature World War I tank, Yvon Martel’s electric creation is nothing if not versatile. Known as the MTT-136, this French Canadian all-terrain, all-electric pulling device is one of those enigmatic all-purpose machines whose appeal extends well beyond a certain backwoods demographic.
Depending on the battery system selected, Martel’s electric sled is reported to deliver a range of somewhere between 45 and 220 kilometers (137 miles). The MTT-136 (the MTT is short for “My Track Technology”) weighs in at around at 280 lb (127 kg) and can reach speeds of 40 km/h (24 mph) on open ground. According to the designer, the electrified sled has a recharge time of anywhere between 15 minutes and eight hours, depending on the selected battery arrangement.
The MTT-136’s low center of gravity, copious amounts of immediately accessible electric torque and the 136-inch (345 cm) caterpillar tread system gives the sled Swiss Army knife-like capabilities, but in a more substantial casing. Capable of pulling a number of different hauling and passenger units, the sled’s steering and power is managed by the rider through a modified handlebar system.
Martel's electric sled has the ability to pull passengers, materials, and small loads through snow, mud and grass with relative ease. The clip below shows the sled being used to push vehicles, pull fallen logs, clear snow and pull the inventor under fallen brush where snowmobiles and ATV’s would find it impossible to venture. One downside is that because of the sled's ground hugging, open-faced design, driver and passengers will likely have to deal with snow, mud, and gravel in their face.
The MTT-136’s long rectangular form, which resembles a downsized WWI tank, houses the sled’s battery, generator and belt drive system. The sled’s electric system also doubles as a portable electric generator. A hidden plug-in port on the side of the sled allows users access to a 110V system that can be used to power electric tools, lighting, recharge other devices. Martel also shows a twinned version with two caterpillar units bolted together and a storage unit on top. When not in use the sled handle folds up to make it easier to transport or store.
Currently Yvon Martel’s MTT-136 electric sled is a working prototype, but the Quebec inventor is actively looking for investors to further develop and manufacture the product.
Watch the following clip to see the multi-talented MTT-136 in action.
