The Panzerkampfwagen VII Löwe (Lion), initially known as project VK 70.01, was a series of designs for a super-heavy tank developed by Krupp from 1941 to 1942.

[2] The parameters for the tank project VK 70.01 were first discussed in October 1941 between Krupp and Wa Prüf 6,[3] the Waffenamt’s development and testing office for armoured vehicles and motorized equipment, with the formal requirements ready by 1 November.

[6] The Maybach HL230, an 800 hp (600 kW) petrol engine, supposed to enter production in January 1943, was also selected.

The latter turret was to allow for a maximum elevation of 35 to 40 degrees, accommodating the indirect fire role.

[12] Further deliberation on the VK 70.01’s main armament continued, with Krupp’s favoured 105 mm still being regarded as insufficiently powerful.

[13] However, due to ever-increasing demands from Hitler for heavier tanks, the contracts for the prototypes would be cancelled by Wa Prüf 6 on 18 May, with the Löwe project officially abandoned by 7 June.

Powertrains varied from the original 800 hp (600 kW) HL230, to a proposed 1,000 hp (750 kW) Maybach petrol engine, planned for the heavier designs, with a pair of Porsche diesel engines also considered.