Press

Unicell Body Company Has Completed their New Ford Transit Aerocell

Buffalo, NY, June 2014 – The first Ford Transit Aerocell is now finished and ready to participate in Ford’s multi-city “Truth about Transit” introductory tour. Unicell joined the tour in Chicago on June 24th, with stops to follow in Chicago, Dearborn, Boston, Washington DC, New York, Cleveland and Atlanta; it will feature the entire Transit family of vehicles. The Ford Transit cutaway with an Aerocell body makes for a beautiful, fuel efficient and quiet vehicle that is also tough, functional and versatile — suitable for many applications that require high cargo volume, such as package delivery.

Unicell is very proud and happy with the result. As Ford has raised the bar with its new product, we have too.” The Transit’s styling and aerodynamics are continued back into the Aerocell body, including the prominent Transit door trim, which transitions into a PVC/aluminum composite rub rail. All body lighting is LED, inside and out. The Ford Transit Aerocell will be available from all US and Canadian Ford dealers fall of 2014. Click Here to view photos.

Unicell QuickSider Helps Purolator Deliver the Games, Wins Sustainability Star

Vancouver, BC, February 2010 – Unicell’s revolutionary walk-in van was at work during the Vancouver Olympics in February making deliveries to Olympic venues for Purolator, the official courier of the 2010 Winter Olympics. The vehicle won a “Sustainability Star” from the Olympic Committee, who said this about it:

“The Quicksider is a battery-operated electric delivery vehicle —a first-of-its-kind for Canada’s courier industry. The vehicle will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 99 per cent compared to a conventional curbside delivery vehicle. Purolator’s Quicksider supports VANOC’s commitment to minimize the 2010 Winter Games carbon footprint. Through the Games period, Purolator will be tracking Quicksider-related measureable outcomes, as far as kilometres driven and greenhouse gas emissions saved.”

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Isuzu Names Unicell SVM Partner

Buffalo, NY, December 12, 2007 — Unicell Body Company announced that it was recently granted an Isuzu N-Series and GM W-Series chassis pool by Isuzu Commercial Truck of America, Inc. (ICTA). Unicell is a Buffalo, NY based manufacturer of premium fiberglass van bodies with truck equipment installation facilities in Buffalo, Rochester, and Schenectady, NY. Designated a “Specialty Vehicle Manufacturer” (SVM) by ICTA, Unicell will stock Class 3-5 low cab forward chassis with diesel and the new 6.0L V8 gas engines at all three locations.

Van bodies 12’– 20’ long and a selection of service, dump, and stake bodies are available to Isuzu N-Series and GM W-Series truck dealers through Unicell’s SVM chassis pool and authorized drop-ship locations. For more information, contact Unicell at 800-628-8914 or sales@unicell.com.

All of Unicell’s truck bodies are constructed of a one piece molded fiberglass outer shell. This means no seams to separate and leak; no metal to rust and dent; no paint to scratch and peel. Unicell bodies have an uninterrupted, smooth and glossy gel coat exterior, making it the perfect surface for company logos and eye grabbing graphics. Unicell fiberglass bodies are so strong and durable, they’re backed by a five year warranty.

Unicell Body Company Achieves National Truck Equipment Association Member Verification Program Status

Buffalo, NY, October 2007 — Unicell Body Company is pleased to announce that it is among the 316 companies to-date to achieve National Truck Equipment Association (NTEA) Member Verification Program (MVP) status. MVP participants distinguish themselves by embracing the knowledge that is necessary to provide a high level of quality while meeting certain regulatory requirements.

The Program identifies business practices common to successful companies and promotes increased professionalism by helping commercial truck and transportation equipment industry firms build more profitable, mutually beneficial and longer-lasting relationships with their suppliers, distributors and customers.

MVP participants are asked to verify to the Association that they meet four out of five business processes and certain government criteria. Over time, the NTEA will increase program requirements to encourage even higher standards through set criteria that must be met by Distributor and Manufacturer members in order to continue to qualify for MVP status

Unicell introduces Zero Emission Electric Delivery Vehicle

Truck body manufacturer takes their fuel-saving designs into the future

Buffalo, NY, September 24, 2007 – Unicell, a leading truck body design and manufacturing company in the US and Canada, has completed a prototype of the first zero emission vehicle of its weight class to be used within a courier fleet in Canada. Built in partnership with ArvinMeritor, the world’s largest truck suspension company, and in collaboration with Purolator, Canada’s leading overnight courier company, the Quicksider is now ready to begin road testing on the streets of Toronto.

Officially launched at Purolator’s Metro West facility in Toronto, the Quicksider is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by over 80% compared to current technology, well ahead of the target set by the Ontario and Toronto governments for greenhouse gas reductions by the year 2050. “It will play an important role in fulfilling our commitment to protect and preserve the environment and reduce the environmental impacts of our operations and services,” stated Bob Johnson, President and C.E.O. at Purolator.

Roger Martin, Chairman of Unicell, said the Quicksider “is zero emission in operation because it is fully electric. Its on-board energy source is a battery.” The Quicksider further contributes to a cleaner environment by minimizing energy use with its regenerative braking system, no idling, and aerodynamic design. A low, “kneeling” floor, hands-free doors, and tight turning radius will improve delivery operations and safety. The vehicle is expected to have substantially lower maintenance costs because of its simple electric drive train and its use of regenerative braking, which puts braking energy back into the battery rather than wearing out conventional brake components.

Following the successful completion of the prototype tests, Unicell plans to assemble a small fleet of improved Quicksiders for more extensive testing. Sustainable Development Technology Canada, a not-for-profit corporation created by the Government of Canada, has allocated $2.1 million to this next phase of the project.

Founded in 1977, the Unicell group, with manufacturing facilities in Toronto and Buffalo, NY, produces and distributes a full line of truck bodies and equipment. Like the Quicksider, all Unicell brand van and truck bodies are molded in one continuous fiberglass piece. Using 3D CAD, Unicell’s latest designs are shaped to smoothly integrate various truck cabs to be visually attractive and to minimize aerodynamic drag. Its patented Aerocell and Aerocell SRW models have been sold in every Canadian province and in most US states. Unicell partners with Ford and General Motors to facilitate quick availability of completed commercial trucks for truck dealers and their customers.

With strong capabilities in areas of design, engineering and manufacturing, Unicell produces custom bodies, trailers and equipment for customers with unusual requirements. In addition to their van body line, Unicell installs light to medium duty dump and service bodies, snowplows and other truck equipment at their New York facilities in Buffalo, Rochester, and Schenectady for distribution throughout the northeastern U.S.

Unicell Electric Delivery Truck Project Update

Toronto, Ontario, July 2006 – Unicell continues to work with Purolator Courier Ltd. and ArvinMeritor Inc. to develop an all-electric delivery truck. We were encouraged in our efforts on this when Sustainable Development Technology Canada announced on July 5th that our project was one of 22 selected by them for potential funding.

Enquiries about this project should be sent to roger@unicell.com

Unicell is committed to the development of low energy, low emission commercial transportation products in order to do our part to address the energy and climate challenges of the 21st century. Existing Unicell products in this vein are the Ford and GM Aerocell bodies.

Unicell Awarded Customer Assurance Status for Sprinter

Buffalo, NY, April 2006 – Daimler Chrysler Corporation has advised Unicell that they meet all the requirements for their Customer Assurance Program for box bodies. Unicell van body plants in Buffalo, NY and Toronto, Ontario are now authorized upfitters for the Sprinter van. Unicell’s one piece molded fiberglass van body will be built in 11′, 12′, and 13′ lengths for Sprinter’s 140″ & 158″ wheelbase cab chassis.
Over the past 30 years, Unicell has prided itself on the manufacture of advanced fiberglass truck bodies for a variety of uses. The Sprinter body has extended skirting that is level with the cab skirt for a neat, unified appearance. Unicell’s unique one piece exterior construction has no seams or rivets. The UV resistant gel coat and fiberglass surface is smooth, glossy, and easy to maintain.

Ship-To codes for Dodge dealers are T8273 in the US and CX949 in Canada. For additional information, contact Unicell at 800-628-8914.

Unicell Supports Pioneer in Zero Emission Transportation

Toronto, Ontario, July 2005 – Pictured here is Marcelo Da Luz with Scott Vader and Roger Martin from Unicell. Marcelo’s solar car and Unicell Limited’s factory are in the background. Marcelo is testing the car in preparation for his attempt to set a new world record for distance traveled in a solar car (over 10,000 miles! See www.xof1.com ). Unicell has supported the attempt by designing and building a special, low-drag trailer for the solar car, as well as helping with the production of some of the car’s composite parts.

Unicell is committed to the development of low energy, low emission commercial transportation products in order to do our part to address the energy and climate challenges of the 21st century. Existing products in this vein are the Ford and GM Aerocell bodies. Unicell is currently working on the prototype of a zero emission urban delivery vehicle.

Unicell Welcomes New Manager

Schenectady, NY, April 2004 – Since the opening of Unicell Body Company’s Schenectady, NY location, team member Marianna Atwell has been a vital part of the company. Her willingness to learn and strong work ethic paired with her product knowledge made Marianna the clear choice for Branch Manager when the position became available in October 2004.

Marianna has been with Unicell since October of 2002 and we look forward to continued growth and success in Schenectady under Marianna’s leadership.

"Growing...Stronger" is Theme for Unicell's New Assembly Line

Buffalo, NY, November 5, 2004 – Unicell Body Company celebrated the grand opening of a new addition to their van body manufacturing plant with a ceremony and luncheon honoring those who contributed to its planning and construction.

The November 5, 2004 event was an opportunity for Unicell employees to look ahead to a strong future. The 12,000 square foot addition boasts a bright, clean and well organized facility for van body assembly. The new space ensures Unicell’s continuing commitment to the production of high quality van bodies.

Ultimate Service Body Unveiled at Trade Show

Buffalo, NY, October 15, 2004- ISH 2004 in Boston, MA was the setting for Unicell Body Company to introduce its new van body, The SERVICELL. On display in the New Product Showcase, the SERVICELL was open for all to see how user friendly the Knapheide utility side compartments are in combination with a Unicell fiberglass van body upper.

With standard features like 50″ wide rear swing out doors, pine floor, plywood lined upper walls, and an integrated skylight, the SERVICELL proved professional looks could also be functional. Available in the Classicube, square body model or the aerodynamic Aerocell, and in 12 and 14 foot lengths, the SERVICELL can be customized to suite many needs. For more information on the SERVICELL or any other Unicell fiberglass truck bodies, contact Unicell Body Company at 800-628-8914 or visit us on the web at www.unicell.com.

New Doors and Ladder Rack for Aerocell SRW

Buffalo, NY, March 15, 2004 – Unicell Body Company has added a new door and roof rack option to the Aerocell SRW van body. Convenient double panel rear doors, with or without windows, allow partial or full width access. Reinforced fiberglass construction and stainless steel hardware ensure long lasting durability, performance, and good looks.

The optional roof mounted ladder rack is available for curbside, streetside, or both sides storage. A secure and lockable clamping system safely holds up to 32′ ladder or pipe. Constructed of aluminum with stainless steel hardware and assisted by hydraulics, this lightweight system is easy to operate. The racks drop down the side of the body for easy loading and unloading.

For more information on the Aerocell SRW and other Unicell fiberglass truck bodies, contact Unicell Body Company at 800-628-8914 or www.unicell.com.

Unicell Body Company Opens New Facility in Albany, NY

Buffalo, NY, October 16, 2002 – Unicell Body Company of Buffalo and Rochester, NY announces the opening of a new branch in the Albany area. A manufacturer, fabricator, and distributor of a wide range of truck bodies and equipment, Unicell is also an authorized bailment pool company for Ford, Chevrolet, and GMC trucks.

Carmin Sperduti, former truck manager at Reymore Chevrolet in Central Square, NY will serve as the general manager for the new facility that is located at 170 Cordell Road in Shenectady. With over 4,000 sq. ft. and 4 acres of space, Unicell plans to distribute van, service, and dump bodies as well as snowplows from their new location.

Unicell and GM Build Emergency Bomb Squad Unit

Buffalo, NY, July 10, 2002 – Teaming with General Motors Corporation and other suppliers, Unicell Body Company introduced the first Aerocell van body to be mounted on the new 2003 Medium Duty C4500 Chassis at the GM Fleet and Commercial Operations “5-City Tour” this past spring.

Designed for the Michigan State Police Bomb Squad as an emergency response and disposal unit, Unicell’s seamless fiberglass aerodynamic van body was equipped with multiple cameras, robotics, access doors, under-body storage bins, interior cabinets, shelves, and seating.

Unicell Body Company is a GM Specialty Vehicle supplier and manufacturer of fiberglass van bodies for cutaway and regular cab chassis. The new 16,000# GVWR Chevrolet TopKick and GMC Kodiak C4500 are available through Unicell’s bailment inventory.

Unicell Introduces the New Aerocell SRW Van Body for Chevrolet & GMC

Buffalo, NY, October 8, 2001 – Responding to the demand for more space and headroom in a cargo van, Unicell Body Company has introduced the slim new Aerocell SRW for the Chevrolet and GMC single rear wheel cutaway chassis. Using state-of-the-art fiberglass technology plus twenty-five years of experience, Unicell designers utilized the GM cab’s door lines, sweeping them back and upward, resulting in a unitized and aerodynamic style that is uncommon in the commercial high cube industry. Often, a regular cargo van is too small and cramped, but a traditional dual rear wheel high cube is too big to maneuver in residential area. The Aerocell SRW offers a perfect compromise to both.

A unique space-saving and convenient flip-up rear door with inside release is water and dust tight, providing a no-rattle quiet ride. Features such as a low step-in height and stand-up headroom increase operator comfort and mobility. The standard model includes a built-in skylight, a strong polyethylene lining, a versatile cargo control system, extra storage tray over the bulkhead, and an access door to the cab.

The Aerocell SRW provides a more aesthetic automotive appearance than typical commercial truck bodies, with features such as one-piece seamless fiberglass construction and superior aerodynamic design. Like all other Unicell bodies, the fiberglass exterior is stronger than .040″ aluminum and more puncture-resistant. Its smooth sides and rear, enhance company graphics. The Aerocell SRW is also available for the Ford E350 van.