In 1914, the French army realised the need for increased fire support and mechanisation, which started the requirement for "Auto-canons", armoured cars armed with rapid-fire guns.

The author of this particular vehicle was Lieutenant Villeneuve-Bargnemont, who worked with Renault to produce a prototype based on a commercial 2.7 tonne truck chassis.

In use, the 15 hp engine was overloaded and the armoured grill didn't have enough airflow, leading to frequent overheating.

the engine had the classical disposition at the time of being placed in front of the radiator, the truck bed was low enough that the wheel arches protruded.

The 47mm Mle 1902 gun was installed on a pedestal mount between the wheel arches and was provided a shield.