The German A7V
(Sturmpanzerwagen)
Technical Specifications
| Weight | 32 ton |
| Dimensions | 7.35 x 3.06 x 3.30 m |
| Armor (max) | 30 mm |
| Maximum Speed | 9 km/h |
| Range | 30 - 35 km |
| Weapons | 1 x 57 mm gun and 6 x 7.92mm machine guns |
| Crew | 18 |
The Germans began implementing Panzer units only after the battle of the Somme when they realized that such a device could serve as a crucial part of modern military strategy.
The first German tank, the A7V, designed during the first months of 1917, was produced by Daimler (mechanics), Steffens (chassis) and Noelle (armour). The first tank was delivered in December 1917 and, by the end of the war, only 20 had been produced.
Attempts were made at commandeering captured enemy tanks, such as the Mark I, but only nine divisions were ever assembled, and by the time the Panzerkrieg went into effect, the war was practically over.