After the Second World War, many vehicles used by military forces were redirected for civilian uses.
Robust and versatile vehicles, which previously performed military functions, began to be used on farms, in crop fields and even for leisure.
In the United States and Europe, the iconic American Jeep and the Land Rover English dominated the scene.
In Germany, another utility gained relevance: the DKW Munga, produced by Auto Union, a precursor that left its legacy.
In 1954, the NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) launched a competition for the development of light, robust and compact military vehicles.
Competitors included Borgward, Porsche and DKW, which ended up winning and starting development of the DKW F91/4 model, known as DKW SUV (off-road vehicle).
In 1962, the model was renamed Munga, acronym for “Mehrzweck-Universal-Geländewagen mit Allradantrieb”, which means “multi-purpose universal vehicle with all-wheel drive”.
With its technological legacy influencing even icons such as the Audi Quattro, the Munga/Candango continues to be proof that engineering can transcend eras, adapting to the needs of war and peace.
So, if you have the opportunity to see one of these models up close, take the opportunity to explore the roots of a history that combines innovation, functionality and resistance.