Model Car UNIC ZU 42 DONON truck from 1942 with gas bottle storage platform BUTAGAZ - PROPAGAZ
Scale 1/43
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An exceptional witness to French industry in times of war
This model car of the 1942 UNIC ZU 42 DONON truck with a BUTAGAZ - PROPAGAZ gas bottle rack is a true gem for collectors passionate about French industrial history. This faithful reproduction captures the essence of an era when the French automotive industry had to adapt to the constraints of World War II while maintaining essential services to the population.
An exceptional collector's item, this model car is a testament to French ingenuity in times of restrictions and perfectly illustrates the evolution of utility vehicles specializing in the distribution of domestic gas, a sector that was booming in the 1940s.
Characteristics of the model car
- Model: UNIC ZU 42 DONON gas bottle storage tray
- Brand: UNIC
- Year: 1942
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Delivered: BUTAGAZ - PROPAGAZ
- Type: Specialized utility truck
- Protective case included: Yes
The UNIC ZU 42 DONON: a utility vehicle born out of necessity
The UNIC ZU 42 DONON was launched in the midst of World War II, a period during which the French automotive industry was required to demonstrate remarkable adaptability. This particular model, equipped with a platform specially designed for transporting gas bottles, met a growing need for domestic energy distribution in a France undergoing energy transformation.
The technical characteristics of this vehicle reflect the constraints of the time: maximum robustness with available materials, simplified design to facilitate maintenance, and perfect adaptation to the specific needs of transporting heavy and fragile goods. The bottle rack is a testament to the ingenuity of French coachbuilders in creating practical and secure solutions.
This model enjoyed notable success with gas distribution companies, contributing significantly to the growth of domestic gas in France during and after the war, a period when electrification was not yet widespread in all French regions.
UNIC: French pioneer of utility vehicles
Founded in 1905 by Georges Richard, UNIC (Union des Industries et Constructeurs Automobiles) quickly established itself as one of the leading French manufacturers of commercial vehicles. In the 1940s, the brand experienced a crucial period in its history, marked by wartime restrictions and the need to maintain production adapted to essential needs.
The Parisian company is developing particular expertise in specialized vehicles , meeting the specific demands of French professionals. This strategy allows it to withstand economic difficulties and consolidate its position in the medium and heavy utility market.
UNIC also stands out for its capacity for technical innovation and its adaptation to changes in the French market, particularly in the rapidly transforming energy sector. Collaboration with companies like BUTAGAZ perfectly illustrates this partnership approach that characterized the brand during this decisive decade.
The epic of bottled gas: a silent revolution
The story of this UNIC ZU 42 truck is part of a true, little-known energy revolution: the advent of bottled gas in French homes. In 1942, as France faced energy restrictions, BUTAGAZ and its subsidiary PROPAGAZ developed an innovative distribution network that would permanently transform French domestic habits.
These specialized trucks crisscross French roads, bringing modern and convenient energy to the countryside and cities. Delivery drivers become true ambassadors of modernity , explaining to French families the advantages of domestic gas compared to coal and wood, traditional fuels that are increasingly difficult to obtain.
A delightful anecdote tells of how, in the Paris region, these trucks were nicknamed "blue flame carriers" by locals, a reference to the characteristic color of the butane gas flame. This popular poem bears witness to the cultural impact of this technical innovation on French society at the time.
The efficiency of this distribution system significantly contributed to the acceptance of domestic gas by the French, laying the foundations for an industry that would become one of the country's energy pillars. These humble UNIC trucks thus participated, on their scale, in a major societal transformation whose effects are still felt today.
Complete your collection of historical model cars
This UNIC ZU 42 DONON model car occupies a privileged place in the world of French collectible utility vehicles . It fits perfectly into thematic collections dedicated to vehicles from the 1940s or vintage French light utility vehicles .
Collectors with a passion for industrial history will particularly appreciate its complementarity with other Bernard vehicle models or heavy goods vehicles from the same period. This model car also fits harmoniously with collections of specialized commercial vehicles .
Aimed at discerning collectors and French history enthusiasts, this reproduction is an authentic testament to a pivotal era. It naturally finds its place alongside other exceptional French model cars , enriching thematic collections devoted to vintage vehicles and historic advertising vehicles that tell the story of the evolution of French society.
Même métier : publicitaire
Même époque : années 1940
Frequently Asked Questions
How to understand the scales of miniatures?
Scale indicates the reduction ratio between the real car and the miniature. For example, at 1:43 scale, each centimeter on the miniature corresponds to 43 centimeters on the real vehicle.
Concretely, a 1/18 scale Ferrari model is approximately 25-30 cm long, while in 1/43 scale it measures approximately 10 cm.
What scales are available?
Our model cars are mainly offered in 1/43, 1/24, 1/18 and 1/87 (HO) scales. The scale is always indicated in the product sheet.
The smaller the second number, the larger the model car (e.g. 1/18 is larger than 1/43).
Does the model car come with protection?
Yes, each model car is systematically delivered in its protective box. This box preserves the collectible value and protects your model car from dust and shocks.
How is my package protected during transport?
We package each order with the utmost care: bubble wrap, appropriate cushioning, and polystyrene. Your model car is perfectly secure during its journey.
What is the delivery time?
In-stock items are shipped within 24-48 hours. Please allow 2-3 business days for France via Colissimo or 4-5 days via Mondial Relay.
The model car is no longer in stock, when will you have it?
It's impossible for me to know exactly when I'll receive a new stock because I receive arrivals in dribs and drabs. Please contact me so I can keep you informed as soon as it's available.
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