The Secret Ambulance: The Innovative Fiat Iveco 55 AF 10
Fiat Iveco 55 AF 10: the armoured ambulance that hides a secret
A Rare Wonder of Italian Engineering
The world of emergency vehicles is fascinating and vast, but few are as rare as the Fiat Iveco 55 AF 10, a unique ambulance produced in 1982 by Carrozzeria Boneschi. This car, based on their armoured Iveco A 55, has aroused the curiosity of many, not only because of its appearance, but also because of its specific features.
Exterior Design: The Mask of a Combat Vehicle
At first glance, the Fiat Iveco 55 AF 10 might look like an ordinary combat vehicle, thanks to its exterior being identical to the armoured version used by the Armed Forces and Police. This resemblance was no accident. It served to disguise the true nature of the ambulance, allowing it to operate in high-risk areas or particularly sensitive situations without arousing suspicion. This ‘undercover’ aspect makes the vehicle even more intriguing in the eyes of enthusiasts.
Interior: Features to Save Lives
Although it looks like a war machine from the outside, the interior reveals its true nature. The Fiat Iveco 55 AF 10 ambulance is designed to transport up to four patients at the same time, with a stretcher arrangement similar to that of military ambulances. This capability, combined with the fact that the vehicle was armoured, made it perfect for rescue operations in combat zones or high-risk emergency situations.
It is said that at least two units of this vehicle were produced, each with slight internal differences. These minor variations could suggest that they were designed for specific needs, perhaps for different units or agencies.
Unsolved mysteries: The Enigma of the Fiat Iveco 55 AF 10
Despite its uniqueness, the Fiat Iveco 55 AF 10 ambulance remains shrouded in mystery. It is not entirely clear whether this vehicle ever actually entered service with the Armed Forces, the Police, or other organisations – both Italian and foreign. Its rare production and unique design suggest that it may have been used for ‘undercover’ operations or special missions. However, the absence of concrete data fuels speculation and makes the vehicle even more fascinating to automotive and military history enthusiasts.
A Piece of History to Preserve
Regardless of its actual use, the Fiat Iveco 55 AF 10 represents an important piece of Italian engineering and automotive history. Its unique combination of design, functionality and mystery makes it a vehicle that deserves to be studied, preserved and celebrated. With the hope that further research will unlock the secrets of this rare jewel, one can only ask: how many more automotive treasures like this await discovery?