NAMI » 044 / 044E

Prototype of a multi-purpose 2-tonne tractor NAMI-044 (4x4) with a short wheelbase of 2,360 mm, was developed in 1958 by NAMI. Its diesel engine produced 135 hp and was located in front of the vehicle. It transmited torque through a 5-speed gearbox and 3-speed transfer gearbox on wheel gears. NAMI-044 has a cantilever (console) front and rigid rear suspension. The prototype had a caterpillar tractors type of steering with two levers to change direction.

The curb weight of NAMI-044 was 4880 kg. The prototype got an all-metal two-seater cabin and a short metal body for ballast or additional equipment. The range of its velocity was between 0.5 and 45 kph, it could tow a light trailer, and was equipped with a removable double-sided blade attached on a hydraulic hitch. It had front and rear PTO gears to drive special equipment.

The first prototype was tested with wide arched tires, and in 1959 was built the second version NAMI-044E with a 95-horsepower gasoline engine ZIS-121, conventional two-stage transfer gearbox and arched tires I-245 with a diameter and a width of 1000 mm. Its weight dropped to 4 tonnes. The center of gravity height was increased to 1040 mm.