Is SHERP really the coolest off-road ATV in the world? Built in St. Petersburg, Russia, this all-terrain amphibious vehicle is configured to travel over any terrain, across the ice, floating through water, and mowing down just about any obstacle in its path. Part truck, part tank, part DUKW, in other words, the ultimate off-road toy.

Developed through the innovative design concept of Aleksei Garagashian and introduced in 2015, SHERP looks like something created for the lunar surface. If you played with Tonka trucks when you were a kid, or if you’re planning on a zombie apocalypse vehicle for the future, think SHERP.

The build

SHERP offers two models: standard body and pickup. Standard is geared for cold weather and when no changes are needed to be made to the basic construction. The pickup version is configured with a soft top and roll cage, providing a quick in and out. The four-passenger heated cabin is hermetically sealed, allowing for a watertight interior.

SHERP’s 11.2 foot by 8.2 foot aluminum body is constructed over a galvanized frame, powered by a four-cylinder, 45 hp Kubota diesel engine, with a five-speed transmission.

Weighing in at around 2,900 pounds, it has a load capacity of 2,204 pounds. Optional fuel tanks allow for a 210-gallon fuel capacity. With the same cross-drive steering system designed for tanks, SHERP turns within its own length, giving it maximum maneuverability in tight spaces.

This extreme off-road ATV is designed and configured so that repairs can be done just about anywhere with a minimum amount of tools and without any special knowledge of mechanics. Because SHERP contains only a minimum of electronic components, its diesel engine will continue to run in the event of a complete power system failure.

Optional equipment

Several unique options are available as add-ons. Because SHERP is not street-legal, a trailer is specially designed for transporting SHERP over public roadways. Auxiliary fuel cans can be fitted into the wheels for added fuel reserves. Studded tires are available for extreme winter snow and ice conditions.

A rearview camera provides better visibility in limited spaces. The thermostat-controlled heating system is compact, yet operates efficiently to heat the cabin. An internal storage box in the hold compartment is configured for storing food, water, and additional equipment.

Big wheels keep on turning

SHERP’s gigantic ultra-low pressure, self-inflating tires are 63 inches in diameter, offering about 24 inches of ground clearance. An on-board exhaust system is used for inflation and deflation for optimal performance according to operating conditions.

When in the water, the tires provide buoyancy to make the vehicle fully amphibious, functioning as pontoons, while the treads function as paddles. SHERP’s patented tires are low impact, making them eco-friendly for operation in fragile ecosystems.

Hold your horses!

How fast can the SHERP go? The fact is really how fast the SHERP doesn’t go. Not exactly built for speed, it’s not going to win any awards. Expect about 24.5 miles per hour on land and 3.7 miles per hour in water. Slow and steady wins the race for this ATV.

More than a toy

SHERP is being used recreationally to access the most remote and rugged off-road hunting and fishing areas of the world. Because of its unique ability to function as the ultimate survival vehicle under any conditions and over rough terrain, it’s also being called upon as a first responder for search and rescue operations.

With its capability to handle the most difficult natural conditions, expect to see SHERP at work in the energy industry for exploring and developing natural oil and gas resources and pipeline servicing. Because of its versatile handling abilities, SHERP is being utilized in agriculture, ranching, forestry, and mining operations.

Depending on the model and options, the base price for this off-road wonder starts at around $100,000.