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The History of the Tiger Tank Page 4.

The new design, VK4501(H), was created in haste to meet the summer 1942 deadline and, as such, could only be obtained from a combination of existing components.

Apart from the adoption of the Maybach HL210 engine - an improved V12 rated at 650hp - all the mechanical components were derived from the VK3601.

The hull was also similar, although it was extended over the tracks at each side to accommodate the larger turret.


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Tank Museum photo No. 0593/A/2
First VK4501(H) with turret ready 15th April 1942. The turret was based on the Porsche design, still at that time only capable of mounting the L/56 gun.

The main change was from electric to hydraulic traverse drive but there were subsequent alterations to the roof.

The first example of VK4501(H), complete with turret, was ready for inspection on 15 April 1942.
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