VK 20.01 (DB) Panzer III neuer Art

In 1938 work started on replacements for the Panzer III and IV. Daimler-Benz was charged with the construction of the Panzer III neuer Art. They were granted relative autonomy from Wa Prüf 6. The design was finished by December 1938. large parts of the Panzer III were revised and a Schachtellaufwerk introduced.

Construction of the MB 809 engine were finished by June 1940 and in March 1941 approved to be installed in a first test chassis.

   The project was stopped in favor of the later Panther by Reich minister of ammunition Dr. Fritz Todt against the advice of Wa Prüf 6. Reasons were front experiences and the demand of heavier armament.