The Iveco Massif last year took part in the 100th anniversary retracing by the historic Itala of the long and tortuous route used by the winning car during the famous Paris to Peking motor race in 1907.

In the last few days Iveco and Santana have signed a final agreement to begin manufacturing the Massif, a genuine off road vehicle that is closely based on the Spanish firm's long-running Anibal PS-10.

The Massif, which uses Iveco diesel engines, has already been widely trailed and tested during the last year by Iveco, shown to its dealer network and in public, as well as seeing examples taking part in the 100th anniversary retracing by the historic Itala of the long and tortuous route used by the winning car during the famous Paris to Peking motor race in 1907.

As well as the general short- and long-wheel base utility versions of the Massif, Iveco is developing a series of specialised models for civilian and military use to slot into its growing portfolio of niche vehicles. Iveco has made leveraging its already market leading position in the supply of niche use vehicles a future strategy priority, and the versatility and practicality of the four-wheel-drive Massif allows it to be easily adapted and to plug gaps in the range.

Apart from the Iveco engine, the Massif has only been mildly evolved from Santana Motors' Anibal PS10 model, mainly in the area of the cabin, which includes improved ergonomics and better quality materials, as well as better aesthetic details such as the front grille. The PS-10 draws its heritage from the Land Rover Defender which Santana formerly built under licence from the English firm.

The Massif will be sold around the world badged as an Iveco, however in Brazil, where it is expected to be popular with the market, it will carry the Fiat logo. Initial sales targets are 2-3,000 units per year, rising to 5,000 in the medium term.