Vehicle conversions by UNIQUECO:
just as uniquec as the original - but better.
In instances where a specialized model for a particular market is not readily available and the anticipated demand is insufficient to justify the development of a new model, UNIQUECO Vehicle Conversions offers a comprehensive solution. Our team collaborates with existing vehicle bodies, adapting readily producible components to facilitate the conversion process. Whether you are transitioning from N1 to M1 class or seeking a modification to the body shape, we can deliver unique and rigorously tested concepts.
Find out how we do it at UNIQUECO:
The journey to a conversion creating a small-series version
First the homework: homologation and certification.
Prior to developing any further concepts, it is essential to ascertain the homologation status of the base vehicle. This includes determining its weight, dimensions, and any restrictions. Is a transition from M1 to N1 feasible, and does it offer greater production possibilities? Additionally, evaluate the production plant’s capabilities to produce vehicles without predefined content.
Once these assessments are complete, a technical foundation can be established, encompassing all potential benefits. Subsequently, the search for materials and production processes can commence. If the projected figures of the project are available, consider the following production methods: fiberglass, carbon fiber, thermoforming parts as low-entry variants with minimal technical requirements, and injection molding or sheetmetal for higher volumes.
Second: The Process from Design and Sketches to a Real Prototype
The design phase at UNIQUECO does not commence on a blank canvas. We meticulously design every component, drawing inspiration from the background of real automotive production. By employing the appropriate fastener concept and integrating CAD data of existing and freely available parts, we effectively bridge the gap to the next phase: finalized data and subsequent production on small-series or prototype production processes. To provide a reference, we construct the first vehicles at our plants in Mexico and Italy. Any identified faults or optimizations during this assembly process are promptly transferred to change management, and we maintain a comprehensive record of all part revisions.
Finally: the implementation to serial production.
Upon receipt of all necessary releases from the customer for production of tools and assembly equipment, we oversee and guide the complete implementation process. We monitor and control milestones using custom versions of VDA 6.x audits to track the maturity level of the new conversion. If necessary and part of the business plan, we implement the complete production into our customer’s plant or at any assembly third-party supplier. If additional testing is required, we provide assistance and guidance in the necessary homologation process (for small series, L7e, and all specialized requirements).Vehicle conversions for special markets or prototypes to convince possible clients: we at UNIQUECO are ready for your ideas.
Fast and direct approach.
Our extensive relationship as conversion specialists enables us to access the CAD data of numerous vehicles, including Mercedes, Fiat, and other Stellantis brands. This access significantly enhances the feasibility process. In the event that a swift solution is not feasible, we can scan complete vehicles and utilize our proprietary data for design purposes.
Leading design software at our fingertips.
Our proprietary design platform, compatible with leading 3D software, facilitates rapid component and design development. Utilizing specialized data formats, we can deliver complete vehicles in 3D-PDF or compressed formats such as .fbx. This transparency ensures seamless sharing of all design aspects with our customers.
Toplevel Visualizations.
To effectively communicate our ideas to customers, our board, or any other decision-making group, we can utilize realistic 3D renderings that we can provide as part of our design process. This allows us to demonstrate the potential benefits of our ideas at an early stage of the project, ensuring their visibility and feasibility. Our proprietary rendering software enables us to generate high-quality images or movies tailored to meet the specific requirements of each project.