The History of Bicudos Trucks in Brazil: Icons That Leave Us Missing Them

If you like trucks, you've probably heard of the beaked trucks, those models with an elongated front that, for decades, were the main protagonists of Brazilian roads. In 2024, we are saying goodbye to this classic style of truck with the launch of the special edition of the Atron 1635, the last bicudo truck still in production in Brazil, and the feeling of nostalgia and respect for history is inevitable.

This special edition of Atron 1635 is a final tribute, with only 12 numbered units, each offered through a virtual showroom of Mercedes-Benz, in partnership with the Mobiauto platform. In addition to the exclusive numbering from 01 to 12, each truck in this limited edition comes with a certificate of authenticity, special stickers, aluminum wheels, indoor air conditioner, portable refrigerator it is a radio with USB input. These elements not only provide a touch of modernity, but also acknowledge the glorious past of the bicudos that were once a constant on the country's roads.

With the farewell of the Atron 1635, we close a cycle of 31 years old of history of Mercedes-Benz's snub-nosed trucks in Brazil. And this makes us wonder: what led to the extinction of these models, so loved by truck drivers? These vehicles, inspired by American trucks of similar design, offer greater comfort and safety for the driver and became, for many years, the symbol of the road in Brazil.

The History of Bicudos Trucks in Brazil

The beginning of the popularity of bicudo trucks in Brazil dates back to the 1970s and 1980s, when companies like Mercedes-Benz and the Scania brought to the Brazilian market versions of their trucks with extended cabins. These models offered some significant advantages: the engine positioned in front of the cabin provided better noise and heat insulation, in addition to being easier to access for maintenance. As a result, the long-nosed trucks soon gained a reputation for comfortable and offer a smoother driving experience.

However, as the years went by, the truck market changed. A series of changes in Brazilian legislation and the increased demand for greater efficiency and space utilization ended up compromising the future of the bicudos. But before we delve into the reasons for their extinction, let's remember some of the most iconic models that marked an era in Brazil.

Mercedes-Benz LS 1935 and Atron 1635

O Mercedes-Benz LS 1935 was one of the most popular open-ended trucks in Brazil. With a combination of strength, durability and comfort, this model became a favorite among Brazilian truck drivers. Its robust design and powerful engine allowed the LS 1935 to tackle the most challenging roads in the country, transporting heavy loads over long distances.

Already the Atron 1635 is a true survivor of this golden age of beaked trucks. Launched as a tribute to the classic Mercedes-Benz models, it has maintained the essence of the beaked truck even in modern times. Now, with this special farewell edition, Mercedes celebrates the last beaked model produced in Brazil. For truck lovers, this is the end of an era.

Scania T113 and T143

Scania also had its place in the hearts of Brazilian truck drivers with its models T113 It is T143, both with a pointed design. The T113, in particular, was a hit on the roads and became known for its performance and comfort, as well as its iconic design. Many truck drivers fondly remember these Scania models, which, for many years, were seen cruising the roads with their long fronts and powerful engines.

O T143 was an evolution of this model and maintained the brand's popularity among fans of long-nosed trucks. With high-powered engines, these trucks had unmatched performance for the time, and it is not uncommon to see truck drivers who still keep these machines as relics, preserving this important part of the history of transportation in Brazil.

Why Did the Spiky Trucks Leave the Scene?

Despite all their popularity, the long-nosed trucks were gradually replaced by models with advanced cabins, or boring face. But why did this happen? The answer lies in traffic laws and changes in requirements. logistics efficiency.

Brazilian Legislation and Dimension Limitations

In the United States, truck dimension rules allow the cab and trailer to be measured separately. This means that the double-ended cab does not interfere with the overall length of the unit, which makes these trucks a viable option for traveling long distances and transporting large volumes of cargo. However, in Brazil, the reality is quite different.

Here, the Contran legislation (National Traffic Council) defines that the total length of the truck must include the cabin and the implement together. Depending on the type of configuration, there are limits of 14 meters for single trucks, 18.15 meters for articulated vehicles, 19.8 meters for trucks with trailer It is 30 meters for biarticulated buses. This means that if a truck is beaky, it “steals” precious centimeters of length that could be allocated to the trailer and, consequently, to the load.

This detail makes the long-nosed model less efficient in terms of load capacity. Ultimately, the more space you can allocate to the load, the better the truck will be used. And this explains why transport companies have started to give preference to advanced cabin models, which offer more space for the trailers, even if the cabin itself is less comfortable for the driver.

The Effectiveness of Flat-Faced Trucks

Another reason for the extinction of weevils is the search for energy efficiency. In general, flat-faced trucks have a more aerodynamic and lightweight design, which results in lower fuel consumption. And with the cost of diesel constantly rising, this factor is decisive for transporters.

Our current market demands more and more efficiency, and unfortunately, this has meant the end of the snub-nosed trucks. As a result, flat-faced models have become more common and are dominating Brazilian roads.

The Farewell of the Nose Trucks and the Legacy of the Atron 1635

The special edition of Atron 1635 represents the last chapter in a long story. Over the years, these trucks have faced rough roads, crossed the country from north to south and helped Brazil develop, even with limited infrastructure. Wherever they went, the bicudos left their mark.

Each of the 12 units in this final series comes equipped with details that highlight the exclusivity of the model: in addition to being numbered, each truck has aluminum wheels, indoor air conditioner, portable refrigerator it is a USB radio. It is a true gift for those who love trucks and value the history of Brazilian roads. The price of each unit has not yet been officially announced, but the estimated value is around R$ 500 thousand, considering the customization and limited nature of the series.

The Future of the Weevils

With the advancement of technology, there is hope that the bicudos trucks may one day return in a modern version. Perhaps with electric engines or even autonomous, who knows? However, even if this happens, the essence of the classic bicudos will always be a reminder of a remarkable period on Brazilian roads.

Conclusion

The farewell of the Atron 1635 is a special and memorable moment for those who lived and followed the era of bicudos in Brazil. This latest model is not just a truck, but a tribute to a generation of vehicles that paved the way for the country's development, overcoming challenges and covering long distances with their robust and unmistakable front end. In a market dominated by technological innovations and demand for efficiency, bicudos leave a nostalgic memory on the roads.

For you, who admire the history of trucks and understand the value of these classics, the Atron 1635 does not represent the end of an era, but a milestone in everything that the bicudos meant for road transport in Brazil. These trucks, with their elongated fronts and indomitable strength, did more than carry cargo: they carried stories, dreams and the resilience of thousands of drivers who helped shape our country.

The weevils may be saying goodbye, but their legend will remain alive in the memory of all truck lovers.