The “Camionetta Desertica modello 42 Sahariana” was developed for the Italian Royal Army based on the chassis and mechanics of the reliable armored car AB 41. During operations on the African front, there arose the need for a reconnaissance vehicle particularly suited to desert conditions, where sand terrain demanded specific characteristics not present in available vehicles. Thanks to its low-profile side and large wheels, the "Sahariana" was ideal for reconnaissance operations and conducting swift raids into enemy territory. Its good range enhanced the possibility of employing the vehicle for long-range operations. The type of armament could vary depending on the models and consisted of the Breda 20/65 mod 1935 machine gun, the effective 47/32 anti-tank gun, or the 20 mm Solothurn anti-tank rifle.
