It was built shortly after Second World War. The first MAZ model (MAZ-200) used the General Motors design 2-stroke engines. Later on the new original engines were developed and were implemented in MAZ-500 series. Not only the plant itself, but the entire living infrastructure were done in short time. Apartment buildings, shops, medical clinics, cinemas etc. were built in short proximity to the MAZ plant, providing plant workers with first hand (though limited) necessities. On many construction places the German war prisoners were working together with Russian construction workers. Majority of those buildings are still in service today.