The model 42 Desert Vehicle originated for the Italian Army in line with the framework and mechanics of this AB 41 armoured vehicle. During the period of the operations regarding African front, the need arose for a reconnaissance vehicle specifically adjusted towards the desert conditions, in which driving on sand required particular features that have been not present regarding currently available cars. The engineers eliminated the twin running way typical of AB 41 additionally the four-wheel drive. A few dozen of those vehicles had been produced