Fábrica Nacional de Motores (FNM), initially launched in 1942 in Brazil, has a storied history interwoven with the nation’s industrial ambitions under the Estado Novo regime. Originally state-owned, FNM began by producing aircraft engines before transitioning to automotive manufacturing, reflecting Brazil’s broader industrialization goals. The company became synonymous with robust trucks and the iconic FNM JK 2000 sedan—Brazil’s premier luxury car of its time.

The narrative of FNM took a significant turn in 1968 when Alfa Romeo took control, shifting the brand’s focus while maintaining its esteemed reputation for quality. Under Alfa Romeo, FNM introduced more powerful versions of its vehicles and even experimented with sports coupes like the FNM Onça and the Furia GT, although these remained limited in production.

Despite its historical prominence, FNM could not sustain profitability and was absorbed into Fiat’s operations in 1988. The brand was revitalized in 2018 as Fábrica Nacional de Mobilidades, shifting gears to focus on high-tech electric trucks, emphasizing sustainability and modernity. The new FNM now operates out of Rio de Janeiro and Caxias do Sul, producing innovative vehicles designed for urban logistics, equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems and the potential for future autonomous operation.

This reinvention of FNM from a traditional automaker to a forward-thinking electric mobility provider illustrates a remarkable pivot, blending a rich legacy with modern technological aspirations. The rebirth of FNM encapsulates a blend of past prestige and future promise, driving Brazil’s automotive industry into a new era of innovation and environmental consciousness.

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