FNM: The Pioneer of Heavy Trucks in Brazil

If you are passionate about vehicles and history, you will certainly be impressed by the trajectory of the National Motor Factory (FNM), the first vehicle manufacturer in Brazil. Founded in 1942, FNM started production of trucks in 1949, marking the beginning of an era of industrial development in the country. With a strong connection to the Italian technology from Alfa Romeo, these trucks, known as “Phenemese”, were fundamental in shaping cargo transportation in a transforming Brazil.

In this article, you will learn in detail how FNM began, its technological evolution, the challenges faced and the impact its trucks had on the country.

The Birth of FNM

The history of FNM began in 1942, in full World War II. Created by the government of Getulio Vargas, the factory aimed to produce aircraft engines in partnership with the American company Wright. Located in the Xerém district, in Duke of Caxias (RJ), the unit began operations in 1946, but the war had already ended, leaving the factory with idle capacity.

It was then that, after much debate, the government decided to use the facilities to manufacture trucks. In 1949, FNM has entered into a partnership with Isotta-Fraschini, an Italian company that was in financial decline. The result was the FNM D-7300, a robust truck equipped with a 7.3-liter six-cylinder diesel engine, capable of producing 100 hp. It was different from the North American gasoline models that dominated Brazilian roads, standing out for its durability and efficiency.

The Alfa Romeo Era

The bankruptcy of Isotta-Fraschini halted production of the D-7300 after about 200 units manufactured. However, in 1950, Alfa Romeo entered into a partnership with FNM, bringing new models and modernizing the production line. The first fruit of this collaboration was the FNM D-9500, inspired by the Italian Alfa 800, but with adjustments to meet Brazilian demands.

With a diesel engine of 9.5 liters It is 130 hp, the D-9500 had the capacity to carry up to 14 tons with trailer. He also introduced pneumatic brakes and a gearbox with eight gears, offering more control and safety on the roads.

Production began to become nationalized from 1953, with components such as tires, radiators and axles being manufactured in Brazil. In 1955, the nationalization rate reached 54%, and FNM was already surpassing international brands such as Mercedes-Benz and Volvo in number of trucks in circulation.

The Success of the D-11000

In 1957, FNM launched the D-11000, which has become a true icon. With a diesel engine of 11 liters It is 150 hp, the model was known for its strength, load capacity of up to 18 tons with trailer and three wheelbase options. In addition, its cabin offered space for two bunk beds, an innovation that made long journeys easier.

Despite all its success, the D-11000 faced a technical problem that earned it the nickname “water belly"The engine block was porous, allowing coolant to leak into the oil, which could cause serious damage. The factory quickly corrected the defect, replacing the engines and restoring confidence in the model.

Custom Cabins: A Brazilian Touch

One of the most striking features of FNM trucks was the ability to customize the cabins. Although the factory itself produced some, companies such as Brasinca, Metro and Drulla offered unique design options. These cabins varied in style, materials, and even the way the doors opened.

For example, Brasinca’s cabins had a sophisticated finish, while Metro’s cabins innovated with tilting windshields for better ventilation. The diversity of options made the “Fenemês” even more popular, adapting to the needs of transporters.

The Challenge of Modernization

In the 1960s, the FNM faced new challenges. Despite achieving 97% of nationalization in its trucks, the brand began to lose ground to competitors such as Mercedes-Benz and the Scania, which offered more advanced technologies.

In 1967, Alfa Romeo took over FNM completely, modernizing the production line and introducing new models, such as the V-12, with capacity to 15.2 tons, and the V-17, which brought the configuration of two steering axles to increase capacity without violating weight laws.

The End of an Era

In 1974, Fiat acquired 43% of FNM's shares, and two years later, assumed complete control. The FNM acronym continued to appear on new models until 1977, when the company was renamed to Fiat Diesel. Truck production continued until 1985, ending a story of 78 thousand trucks manufactured.

Legacy and Relevance

FNM trucks were much more than just utility vehicles. They represented the beginning of Brazilian automotive industrialization and played a crucial role in the country's development. Whether in the works of Brasilia, in the opening of roads such as Transamazonian, or in the transportation of essential cargo, the “Fenemês” were true heroes of the roads.

Today, these trucks are collector's items, valued for their history and robustness. Restored, they can fetch high prices on the market, a testament to the importance of FNM to Brazilian identity.

Conclusion

The history of FNM is an example of how innovation, even in uncertain times, can transform a country’s economy and infrastructure. If you look at the “Fenemês” today, you will see much more than old trucks — you will see a symbol of pioneering and overcoming. So, the next time you hear the full-bodied roar of a diesel engine, remember: it was the FNM which started this journey on Brazilian roads.

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