FIATALLIS is a brand that, despite its prestigious past, is little-known today, even among industry experts. Its history is rooted in the division of the FIAT group dedicated to earth-moving machinery, with a path full of innovations and successes.
The history of FIATALLIS
The origins: FIAT Movimento Terra
It all began in the 1930s, when FIAT, the Italian state-owned automobile company, founded Fiat Trattori to support Italian agricultural expansion. However, with the increase in construction activities, Italy also needed robust, efficient and economical construction machinery.
From Fiat Trattori, the Fiat Movimento Terra division was born, the first step towards earthmoving machines. Initially, the technologies were rudimentary: they were tractors manually converted into bulldozers and mechanical shovels. Among the first pioneering models were the FL6 and FL9 crawler loaders.
The 1950s and the technological leap
With technological progress and changing market needs, the 1950s marked the transition to more sophisticated earthmoving machines. FIAT began producing real earthmoving equipment, consolidating its position in this sector.
The birth of Fiat-Allis: an international perspective
To grow further, FIAT Movimento Terra looked beyond the Italian borders and in 1974 joined forces with the US company Allis-Chalmers, creating the Fiat-Allis brand. This alliance allowed the entry into the global MMT market, expanding the range of machines with the introduction of hydraulic excavators, following the example of Poclain.
The 1980s: world leader
In the 1980s, Fiat-Allis, now FIATALLIS, became the world leader in the sector, second only to Caterpillar. It was the period of iconic machines such as the L10 C and FL14 crawler loaders, which contributed to the global success of the brand.
The 1990s: expansion and Innovation
During the 1990s, FIATALLIS further expanded its reach with the acquisition of companies such as Benati Spa (including the Imola plant) and Hitachi Mechanic Industry. The machines changed color, going from yellow and brown to orange and blue, and adapted to new market trends with the boom of mini-excavators and skid steers.
The end of the FIATALLIS brand
With the acquisition by CNH (now owner of Case and New Holland), FIATALLIS was gradually discontinued in the early 2000s. After more than seventy years of history, the adventure ended, but its heritage lives on in the documents preserved at the Centro Storico FIAT in Turin, an unmissable destination for earthmoving machinery enthusiasts.
Are there still FIATALLIS?
Although they are no longer produced, FIATALLIS have not completely disappeared from the market. The most recent machines, in fact, date back to about 20-25 years ago, and considering that the average life cycle of an excavator is 15-20 years, it is still possible to find some operating examples on construction sites.
Where to find them?
- In developing countries
You are likely to find FIATALLIS in countries such as South America, Eastern Europe and Africa. Here many machines, after being decommissioned in Western markets, are purchased at low cost, recommissioned by specialized agencies or freelancers and shipped to be used on local construction sites.
- In garages and depots
The number of FIATALLIS increases when considering what is stored in garages or private depots. This is also due to the presence of groups of enthusiasts, such as the Club FIATALLIS Italia, who keep the myth of these extraordinary machines alive through photographs and restorations, sharing their passion also on platforms such as Instagram.
- Elsewhere…
Many FIATALLIS could be hidden in unthinkable places, perhaps in old agricultural warehouses or barns, abandoned and waiting to be discovered and brought back to life.
Are there still spare parts for FIATALLIS?
Although the parent company no longer produces spare parts, it is still possible to find them. At RAMI Spare, thanks to over 50 years of experience in the sector, we have preserved a wide range of FIATALLIS spare parts from decommissioned machines. These components, carefully selected and in excellent condition, are ready to be installed and bring the FIATALLIS back to operation.
On our website you will find a selection of these parts. It is no coincidence that we receive requests from every corner of the world: in some cases our spare parts are real treasures, unique or almost, coming from models that have been decommissioned for decades and sought after by collectors!
How to find the right spare part for FIATALLIS?
Follow these simple steps to identify the component you need:
- Consult the instruction manual, if available: it is the reference point for identifying the correct part.
- Contact a mechanic specialized in earthmoving equipment: an expert will be able to trace the right spare part for your FIATALLIS.
- Contact RAMI Spare: provide the information to your mechanic and we will take care of finding the spare part for you, simplifying the process and saving you time and effort.
With RAMI Spare spare parts, your FIATALLIS can return to working at its peak performance or become the flagship of your collection!
© Mosbatho / CC BY 4.0
