Now here is what I would call a smart multi wheeler. This Sisu truck I drove some time ago is a 10X4 when everything is on the ground, but when it lifts 3 axles it is a 4×2! To be able to do that the last driven axle can be swiched off, and that saves a lot of fuel. The driver can decide which axles to use, so for every load the ideal configuration is possible.
When the load is heavy but extra traction is not needed the truck can also be driven als a 10X2. When extra traction is needed the last axle can easily be swiched on. an interesting extra option would be a hydraulic driven front axle. That would make a 10X6 of this truck.
This is nothing new, Sisu has been building these configurations for years, but I wonder why nobody else does. The only ohter brand that uses the Sisu system is the Dutch specialist truckbuidler Ginaf. When I see how everybody is trying to save fuel and emissions these days, I think there is a lot to gain with this idea. Think of trucks for construction purposes, or for timber trucks. The system does not only save fuel and the enviroment, it also cuts costs on tyres.