Trench Warfare: During World War I, the battlefields in France were characterized by extensive trench systems. Wheeled armored cars had difficulty navigating the trenches and the rough terrain surrounding them. The wheels could get stuck in the mud or become entangled in barbed wire, making them vulnerable to enemy fire.
Mud: The battlefields in France during both world wars were often muddy and wet. The heavy weight of armored cars could cause them to sink into the mud, making them immobile and easy targets.
Artillery and Anti-Tank Weapons: The increasing use of artillery and anti-tank weapons during World War II posed a significant threat to wheeled armored cars. The wheels and tires were particularly vulnerable to damage from shellfire, which could immobilize or disable the vehicle.
Reliability: Wheeled armored cars of the time were not as reliable as tracked vehicles. They were more prone to mechanical breakdowns, especially when subjected to the harsh conditions of the battlefield.
Terrain: Wheeled armored cars performed best on flat and open terrain. However, many battlefields in France had uneven terrain, including hills, forests, and rivers, which hindered the mobility of wheeled vehicles.
Despite these challenges, wheeled armored cars were still used in various roles during both world wars. They provided reconnaissance, scouting, and security missions and were sometimes used for hit-and-run tactics. However, their effectiveness was often limited by the terrain and the enemy's defenses.
With the development of more capable and versatile tracked armored vehicles, such as tanks, the use of wheeled armored cars declined in later stages of both World Wars. Tracked vehicles offered better mobility and protection, making them more suitable for the increasingly demanding conditions of modern warfare.
