Hungarian made Rába 38M "Botond" Truck
Following the First World War, one of the Royal Hungarian Army's highest priorities was the mechanisation of its armed forces. Although the military leadership clearly recognized the importance of motorized transport, limited financial resources remained the greatest obstacle to achieving this ambitious goal.
Between 1928 and 1944, the Hungarian Army operated no fewer than 160 different makes and models of cars and trucks. Despite this diversity, Magyar Vagon és Gépgyár (Rába) emerged as the principal supplier of military trucks, producing a wide range of vehicles based largely on proven commercial designs.
In 1936, engineer Dezső Winkler began developing a purpose-built cross-country military truck capable of serving both as an artillery prime mover and as a transport vehicle for mechanized infantry. The result was the 38M Botond, one of the most successful military vehicles produced in Hungary during the Second World War.
The Botond featured an innovative three-axle configuration with two driven rear axles mounted on independent coil springs and a balancing-beam suspension. This advanced design gave the truck exceptional off-road mobility, enabling it to negotiate terrain that was impassable for many conventional military vehicles of the period. Its reliability and versatility made it indispensable for transporting troops, towing artillery, and carrying supplies under demanding field conditions.
Technical specifications
Model: 38M Botond (later 38/42M Botond)
Engine power: 65 hp (later 70 hp)
Maximum range: 380 km
Crew: 1 driver
Passenger capacity: 14 troops in the rear, plus 1 passenger beside the driver
Maximum speed: 60 km/h
Payload capacity: 1.5 tonnes
Towing capacity: 1–2 tonnes
Production: Approximately 700 vehicles (both variants)
Today, the 38M Botond is regarded as one of the finest examples of Hungarian military vehicle engineering. Combining innovative suspension, excellent cross-country performance, and practical versatility, it became the backbone of the Royal Hungarian Army's motorized transport during the Second World War and remains one of the most iconic military vehicles produced by Hungary.
