Unic trucks, France

pre-WW2 Unic truck with carosserie by Alfred Tasse Pontchateau

1954 Unic ZU 120T "Izoard"

This well known French truck manufacturer - whose name was probably a play on "unique" - began in 1905 when the "Etablissements Georges Richard" were formed; until the 1920s only light vehicles and taxis were built.
From 1931 the business built heavier vehicles and in 1937 created its own motor, a 6-cylinder of 10.3 litres. During WW2, UNIC was incorporated with Bernard, Delahaye, Laffly and Simca into the "GFA" (Groupement Francais de l'Automobile) a government plan which was dissolved in 1951. In 1952, Unic rejoined SIMCA and a fusion with Saurer France in 1956. In 1966, Simca Industries was absorbed by Fiat France which saw an increase in exchanges between Unic and Fiat.
From 1971 to 1973 the factories of Puteaux were transferred to Trappes and in 1975 Unic became a part of the newly formed IVECO group.