As the Tiger I became less effective due to new Allied designs entering service, the Germans decided a new heavy tank was needed. Production was awarded to Henschel who produced 489 vehicles utilizing the armor sloping of the Panther and sharing some of its parts. The Pz. VI Ausf. B started production at the end of 1943 and first saw combat at the Battle of Normandy in July 1944. Dubbed the King or Royal Tiger by the Allies, it presented formidable armor and firepower, but early models were hampered by severe mechanical issues.