The model 1017 was developed by Mercedes-Benz to meet requirements of the West German Army in the 5 ton range, and is essentially a commercial vehicle with a minimum of modifications to suit it for military use.
Modifications included electrical system (24V), use of low-torsion platform with stowage boxes and adequate structure plus mounting points for van bodies and installation of an observation hatch in the roof of the cab. The cab have storage space for personal equipment at the rear.
Around 22.000 vehicles were delivered from 1977, with about half of them being the 4 x 2 version. Early vehicles had all wood cargo body instead of the steel type used from 1979 onwards.
The 1017 is used for transportation of cargo and personnel, as communication vehicle with shelter, carrier for the Canadair CL 89 (AN/USD-501) UAV, fuel truck, NBC-vehicle and as fire fighting vehicle. Some have had the shelter from the MAN 630L2A mounted.
By late 1970´s the 1017 was replaced in production by the 1217 series.
Also used in Belgium, Portugal and by NATO units.