The first efforts occurred during World War II in the Africa campaign. Historically, the development of mine-resistant vehicles can be described in terms of four generations. The GVA requirements are intended to create a single, standard digital electronic and electrical architecture for UK vehicles. The Ocelot will be the first British military vehicle to meet the MoD’s recent Generic Vehicle Architecture (GVA) requirements. Critical parts such as the crew compartment, engine, fuel tank and transmission are contained within the V-shaped armored ‘spine’ that deflects potential blast away from the pod, thus protecting the occupants and key components. It is claimed that such composite materials can provide protection like metal armor with a composite spall liner, but at a lighter weight, saving fuel. Its cabin is made of advanced composite materials. Through terrain that would not be accessible to other civilian vehicles, such as jungle, deep mud, or ruts. Parts can also be easily replaced for minimum service time. For example, it can perform as an ambulance, supply vehicle, or jeep. The protective pod where up to six people can sit is interchangeable to allow easy modification according to the vehicle's role. The design is modular, and all of the components can be removed easily.
It is claimed that the engine can be removed and replaced in 30 minutes. Its wheels function independently, so the vehicle's other wheels should continue to work if one is blown off. Powered by a Steyr M16-Monoblock Diesel engine (6-cylinder, 160 kW ), connected to a ZF 6HP28X 6-speed automatic gearbox, it reaches a speed of 50 mph (80 km/h) in 19.75 seconds, and has a maximum speed of 82 mph (132 km/h). This is smaller than most Mine-Resistant Ambush-Protected ( MRAP) vehicles, but larger than the Humvee replacement vehicles being developed through the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) program. It can weigh up to 7,500 kilograms (16,500 lb) when loaded. Designed by Force Protection Europe and the automotive engineering company Ricardo, the Ocelot is intended for use as a light protected patrol vehicle (LPPV) with specialised protection against roadside bombs and improvised explosive devices (IED)s.