Sanden and Unicla sign alliance

USA: Automotive compressor manufacturers Sanden International and Unicla International have signed an alliance to collaborate and share technologies in the transport sector.

The alliance was finalised at last week’s Mobile Air Conditioning Society (MACS) 2018 Training Event and Trade Show in Orlando, Florida.

The two companies are underpinned by 128 years of Japanese technology between them. Sanden is the largest independent automotive air conditioning compressor manufacturer, while Unicla is focused on heavy duty compressors for the agricultural, defence, marine, mining, public transport and refrigeration industries.

Under the agreement, Unicla’s heavy duty compressors in the range of 200cc to 675cc will be co-branded in a strategic move by Sanden to use their distribution network to meet the expected high demand for more powerful compressors.

“This alliance between friendly competitors is a perfect opportunity for Unicla to showcase our high quality heavy duty compressors on a much bigger global footprint than we could have achieved on our own,” said Unicla director Mark Mitchell.

Mark Padwick, chairman of the Sanden Global Aftermarket Sales Team added: “With this strategic alliance, Sanden will be able to offer a wide range of models, from small capacity compressors to the massive UWX660. This, along with our global network of technical support and logistics will allow us to provide unmatched product breadth and service.”

Key models that will be introduced into the co-branded range will be the UX380 lightweight powerhouse for bus and coach, and the UWX660, the largest capacity swashplate compressor in the world.

Mitchell said the complete range of Unicla high performance compressors, from the 200cc series to the UWX660 will be integrated into the Sanden range.