During the early stages of WWII, Italian car manufacturer FIAT produced the armored car the AB40 which was used in reconnaissance missions. Later in 1941, the AB41, based on the AB40 was put into production. It came armed with a 20mm Breda M35 auto cannon. The AB41 was a 4WD, had 4 wheel steering, 4 wheel independent suspension, large-sized tires, and front and rear driver seats making it a very versatile vehicle. It entered both the armored and infantry divisions and was mostly used throughout North Africa as a reconnaissance vehicle. With the surrender of Italy, the German Army captured many AB41’s and pressed them into service at various fronts including the Italian front.