The 815 and its descendant models took the Czech truck racer Karel Loprais to victory six times in the Dakar Rally.

Another facelift followed in 2000 where changes included among others new instrument panel and cab attachment and for the first time there is an option for fitment of liquid-cooled engines.

Due to emission requirements changes in 2003 Tatra developed all new V8 engine T3C to comply with Euro III where it followed the tradition once again with its air cooling design.

The primary structural feature of Tatra trucks is the central load carrying tube, also called a backbone frame.

The inherently high torsional and flexural rigidity of this layout protects superstructures from the motions and forces on the axles.

[6] Tatra differentials[7] are a unique design that uses two opposing spiral bevel gears instead of the usual single set.

The second is that the input drive shaft goes essentially straight through the differential housing, allowing simple coupling to a second set of swing axles.

The 815 can also be fitted with water-cooled engines made by other manufacturers - notably Cummins and Deutz with power ranging from 260 to 440 kilowatts (350 to 590 hp) with 1,550–2,750 N⋅m (1,140–2,030 lbf⋅ft) torque.

The most powerful MTU engine that was used in a 815 prototype tank prime mover, had an output of 610 kilowatts (820 hp) displacing 21,930 cc.

In far eastern Russia the Tatra Trucks are used by oil and gas companies in the most difficult terrains, where the air-cooled engine has advantages over water-cooled ones during harsh winter time.

In Australia the 815 is used notably by mining companies (i.e. as heavy drill 10x10 carrier)[11] There is assembly line of Tatra vehicles in India.