Author: StephanieR

 KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa – March 2024 – FAW Trucks South Africa recently wrapped up its much-awaited Dealer Conference for 2024, held on March 7, in KwaZulu-Natal. Hosted by the FAW head office team, the event united around 35 dealer representatives nationwide for a day dedicated to strategic planning, networking, and celebration. 

The annual conference agenda commenced with discussions centred around network expansion, sales strategies, and the introduction of new generational models in the pipeline. The session provided a platform for dealers to align their individual goals and objectives with the overall brand direction for the 2024 period, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose among the FAW Trucks South Africa network. 

The evening saw the much-awaited FAW Trucks South Africa Dealer of the Year Awards ceremony, recognising and honouring top-performing dealerships across various categories. The awards celebrated the hard work, dedication, and outstanding achievements of the FAW Trucks dealer network throughout 2023. 

The flagship award of the evening was the “FAW Trucks South Africa Dealer of the Year 2023” and was presented to FAW Johannesburg South, acknowledging their exceptional performance and commitment to excellence. FAW Ermelo secured the “FAW Trucks South Africa Aftersales Dealer of the Year 2023” award, showcasing their outstanding service and support to the customer network The “FAW Trucks South Africa Flagship JH6 Champion of the Year 2023” award was claimed by FAW Johannesburg South, highlighting their success in promoting and selling the flagship JH6 model. Lastly, FAW Paarl was recognised as the “FAW Trucks South Africa Most Improved Dealer 2023” for their significant growth and development over the past year. 

“We are immensely proud of our dealer network and their unwavering dedication to the FAW Trucks brand,” said Mr Jian Yang, FAW Trucks SA CEO. “The Dealer Conference 2024 not only provided a platform to strategise and plan for the future but also allowed us to celebrate the remarkable achievements of our dealers. We congratulate all our dealer representatives on their remarkable contribution in the past year and look forward to another successful year ahead.” 

The FAW Trucks Dealer Conference 2024 underscores the brand’s commitment to strengthening its presence in South Africa and supporting its valued dealer network. FAW Trucks South Africa is well-positioned to serve customers across the country and continue its growth trajectory in the coming years. 

About FAW Vehicle Manufacturers SA (PTY) Ltd: 

FAW Vehicle Manufacturers SA (PTY) Ltd, established in 1994, is a leading global player in commercial vehicle manufacturing, committed to delivering cutting-edge solutions. With over 70 years of experience and one of the only OEMs to have such a diverse and extensive range from small to extra heavy vehicles, FAW Trucks SA continues to be a trusted partner for businesses worldwide. 

Johannesburg, March — FAW Trucks SA, a force in global commercial vehicle manufacturing, proudly announces the introduction launch of the new generation JK6 FD/FT variant. This strategic introduction underscores the company’s steadfast commitment to advancing technology and performance in the commercial transport sector. With a rich history dating back to its establishment in South Africa in 1994, FAW Trucks has become a leading player in the industry, leveraging its state-of-the-art manufacturing plant in Coega, Eastern Cape.  

Establishing a solid foundation in South Africa, FAW Trucks SA invested R600 million in the construction of its innovative manufacturing plant in Coega. This facility serves as the epicentre for the production of high-quality trucks, embodying the company’s dedication to precision engineering and technological innovation.  

Key Features 

1. Adaptability to African Terrain: The JK6 FD/FT variant, presented by FAW Trucks, is meticulously engineered to tackle the unique challenges posed by African terrains, demonstrating the company’s commitment to providing solutions that perform optimally across varied landscapes. 

2. Localized Customization: FAW Trucks understands the diverse requirements of African businesses, providing localized customization options for the JK6 FD/FT variant. This allows the truck to be configured to suit the specific needs of industries prevalent in the region, including logistics, construction, and agriculture. Additionally, the chassis offers versatility in applications – it can be utilized as a truck tractor or tipper, adapting to both haulage and transport duties. 

3. Eco-Friendly Performance: Aligning with FAW Trucks’ commitment to sustainability, the JK6 FD/FT variant incorporates features for reduced environmental impact and improved fuel efficiency. This supports businesses in meeting both operational and eco-conscious goals.  

FAW Trucks SA is dedicated to the continuous development of its commercial vehicle offerings. With plans to add even more vehicle variants across light, medium and heavy-duty categories in the period ahead, FAW possesses one of the most extensive overall ranges in South Africa and remains future-focused in its efforts to deliver solutions tailored to customer and industry needs nationwide. We look forward to unveiling additional innovations as we reinforce our standing as an industry pioneer. 

About FAW Vehicle Manufacturers SA (PTY) Ltd: 

FAW Vehicle Manufacturers SA (PTY) Ltd, established in 1994, is a leading global player in commercial vehicle manufacturing, committed to delivering cutting-edge solutions. With over 70 years of experience and one of the only OEMs to have such a diverse and extensive range from small to extra heavy vehicles, FAW Trucks SA continues to be a trusted partner for businesses worldwide. 

To explore FAW Trucks’ commercial offerings, including the JK6 FD/FT variant, visit www.faw.co.za. 

Johannesburg, February — FAW Trucks South Africa, a key player in the global commercial vehicle manufacturing arena, reflects on a successful 2023 and charts an ambitious course for 2024 with strategic plans to reinforce its market presence and customer support.

1. Impressive 2023 Performance: Leading the Pack
At the close of 2023, FAW Trucks SA secured a notable milestone by clinching the 1st position in the market, culminating in 3797 sales. This achievement places the company ahead of other market-leading European brands. FAW Trucks SA proudly stands as one of the leading players, showcasing its commitment to delivering high-performance and reliable trucks.

2. Appointment of New Dealers: Expanding Across Borders
In line with our commitment to enhancing customer support, FAW Trucks SA is embarking on an extensive expansion of its dealer network, not only within South Africa but also has a vested interest in other cross-border African regions. The brand aims to provide high-level representation both in the local South African market and through the appointment of new dealers in various African regions.

3. Upgrading Dealerships and New Corporate Image Agenda
FAW Trucks SA has exciting plans for the visual representation of its brand. The company is set to roll out a new corporate image agenda, reflecting the esteemed standing of the brand on a global scale. This initiative aims to enhance the overall dealership experience, aligning with FAW’s commitment to providing excellence in every aspect of its operations.

4. 2024 Plans of Support: Launching CRM Support Department
Looking ahead to 2024, FAW is gearing up to launch its new Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Support Department. This department is poised to elevate the aftersales assistance provided throughout the entire local and cross-border network. The introduction of the CRM Support Department underlines FAW’s dedication to ensuring a seamless and comprehensive customer experience.

Mr Jian Yang, CEO of FAW Trucks SA, expressed excitement about the company’s achievements and future plans, stating, “We are proud of our exceptional performance in 2023, and as we step into 2024, our commitment to excellence remains unwavering. The expansion of our dealer network, the upgrade of our dealerships, and the launch of the CRM Support Department are all indicative of our dedication to providing unparalleled service and support to our valued customers.”

With over six decades of commercial vehicle excellence, FAW Trucks SA has emerged as an award-winning industry leader. The Global OEM has been recognised as “Best Truck Fleet Management Solution” for three consecutive years – a testament to its customer-focused approach and continuous innovation. As one of the most established names in heavy transport, spanning over 70 years globally, FAW Trucks SA remains committed to shaping the future of mobility through cutting-edge manufacturing and a collaborative spirit that places partners and clients first.

We look forward to continuing our journey of strategic growth and service to businesses across Southern Africa.

About FAW Vehicle Manufacturers SA (PTY) Ltd:
FAW Vehicle Manufacturers SA (PTY) Ltd, established in 1994, is a leading global player in commercial vehicle manufacturing, committed to delivering cutting-edge solutions. With over 70 years of experience and one of the only OEMs to have such a diverse and extensive range from small to extra heavy vehicles, FAW Trucks SA continues to be a trusted partner for businesses worldwide.

To explore FAW’s commercial offerings and stay updated on the latest developments, visit www.faw.co.za.

2023 July 15th (Johannesburg) – Emerging as one of the largest state-owned brands, First Automotive Works, established roots in the city of Changchun, Jilin in 1953. With a testimony of a remarkable brand journey, the China leader, now celebrates seven decades of pioneering accomplishments and steadfast progress.

Starting at the beginning, China FAW Group, initially known as First Automotive Works, laid grounds on the construction of their manufacturing facility in 1953 that accommodated the research, development and production of automobiles, buses, light, medium and heavy-duty passenger and commercial vehicles as well as aftermarket auto parts

First Automotive Works, later underwent a name transitionary period in 1992, the outcome of which was the formation of FAW Group.

In 1964, the introduction of the symbolic FAW emblem became a recognisable feature of the brand and comprised of a number 1 text with eagle wings symbolizing the company’s number one position and the ideal of spreading its wings as part of future growth and development.

The brand soon became a recognisable market leader with numerous sales highlights achieved, the result of which allowed the brand to further entrenched their market expansion measures through the implementation of a strategic diversification approach to the global arena.

This saw the organisation target key national and international locations, in support of their sales drive. The Chinese automotive brand is now an established name amongst competing global American and European brands.

1994 marked a year of notability, when the FAW Group in conjunction with the China-Africa Development Fund investment corporation, identified South Africa as an ideal location for further growth of the brand.

This decision resulted in the investment of a R600 million rand state of the art manufacturing plant equipped with an organisation of around 500 employees, located in Coega, Gqeberha.

Today, FAW Trucks South Africa, a subsidiary of the FAW Group, is known as a recognisable force within the local commercial landscape of Southern Africa.

Standing as a symbol of the Chinese nations automotive industry, the FAW brand pridefully commemorate the accomplishment of their 70th year operational milestone while remaining committed to driving innovation, embracing new technologies and revolutionizing the industry.

• 2023 marks FAW Trucks’ 29th year in South Africa.
• During 2023 FAW Trucks plans on refining and updating their comprehensive model range.
• The brand offers turn key solutions for a number of commercial vehicle requirements.

Johannesburg, 2023 – FAW Trucks believe that having the right commercial vehicle solution for each specific need is key to getting the best value for money as well as ensuring road safety and efficiency. During their 29-year history in South Africa FAW Trucks have continually expanded their model range to the point where they now offer a variety of models in various configurations.

“FAW are committed to offering customers high quality products that are well suited to local conditions while offering high levels of safety, convenience and comfort,” says Yongjun Li, CEO of FAW Trucks South Africa.

The comprehensive and continually refreshed offering of locally assembled FAW Trucks means that they are a one-stop shop that can offer turnkey solutions for a wide variety of commercial vehicle needs. Configurations include freight carriers, truck tractors, tippers and mixers.

FAW Trucks offer a variety of freight carriers ranging from 3.5 to 13.5 tons. The 6.130FL-MT is a low cost per ton option that is fitted with a Cummins ISF2.8S common rail diesel engine and a six-speed fully synchromesh manual transmission. The 5-ton 8.140FL features a spacious ergonomically designed cabin and relies on a Cummins ISF3.8S common rail diesel engine, which can be paired with a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. The 13.5-ton 28.290FL boasts a full floating ergonomically designed sleeper cab with reinforced bumper and powering this unit is a Weichai WP10 six-cylinder inline turbocharged and intercooled diesel engine mated to a nine-speed synchromesh manual transmission.

Truck tractor solutions include 4×2 and 6×4 configurations. The 15.180FT 4×2 is fitted with a spacious, well designed semi-sleeper cab as well as a six-cylinder inline turbocharged engine with intercooler that is paired with a six-speed fully synchromesh manual transmission.

The J5N 28.380FT 6×4 uses a Weichai WP10 six-cylinder inline turbocharged and intercooled diesel engine and a nine-speed fully synchromesh manual transmission.

The JH6 28.500FT utilises a full floating extended high roof cab with innovative flat floor design and rides on front and rear parabolic spring suspension for optimal comfort. Powering this model is a FAW 13 litre, six-cylinder 500hp common rail turbocharged and intercooled diesel engine combined with a ZF 12-speed Traxon AMT transmission.

Turn key tipper solutions range from 3 cubes to 18 cubes. The 3-cube 8.140FD is powered by a Cummins ISF3.8S common rail diesel engine paired with a ZF six-speed manual transmission and features a spacious ergonomically designed cab. The 6-cube 15.180FD is fitted with a six-cylinder in-line turbocharged and intercooled engine mated to a six-speed fully synchromesh manual transmission powering its 10-ton body and payload allowance.

Highlights of the 10-cube 28.290FD include a full floating ergonomically designed sleeper cab with reinforced bumper, Weichai WP10 six-cylinder inline turbocharged and intercooled diesel engine and nine-speed fully synchromesh manual transmission. The 10-cube tipper body is constructed from 850 high strength steel, making it ideal for use in the construction industry.

The 15.5-cube J5N 33.340 features a full floating semi sleeper cab with reinforced bumper, Weichai WP10 six-cylinder inline turbocharged and intercooled diesel engine paired with a nine-speed fully synchromesh manual transmission. The robust 15.5-cube hub reduction tipper is ideal for mining applications.

Rounding off the tipper offering is the 18-cube with its high strength steel tipper body, which is also ideal for construction and is powered by a Weichai WP10 six-cylinder inline turbocharged engine and nine-speed fully synchromesh manual transmission.

FAW Trucks are also one of the only manufacturers to offer turn key mixer solutions that are ready to work in both 6-cube and 8-cube sizes.

The 6-cube 33.340FC comprises of a full floating ergonomically designed sleeper cab with reinforced bumper, Weichai WP10 six-cylinder inline turbocharged and intercooled diesel engine, nine-speed fully synchromesh manual transmission and durable 4.750GJ mixer body with aluminium water tank. The 33.340FC utilises the same cab and drivetrain, fitted with an 8-cube 4/750GJ mixer body on the back.

“Even though we feel that we already offer a very complete range of vehicles, we will continue to expand the FAW Trucks product offering into 2023, with the addition of new and updated models featuring the latest technology, to ensure that we are able to continue to offer our customers exactly what they need,” says Li. 

This new model onslaught will assist the brand to build on its already extensive offering and surpass the 15 000 production milestone at their local plant in the year that FAW Trucks celebrate their 30th year in South Africa.

Ends

• FAW Trucks recently sponsored the Phatje Youth Annual Sports tournament.
• The sponsorship included soccer kit for all players on the 16 competing teams.
• 2023 sees FAW Trucks celebrate 29 years in South Africa.

Johannesburg, 2022 – The Phatje Youth Annual Sports tournament, which began in October 2020 is the brainchild of Phatje Justice Pitso and aims to support and identify soccer talent in disadvantaged communities.

The third tournament was held between 16 and 22 December 2022 at the Mokgomo Hungry Lions Football ground where 16 teams battled it out for the honours. The tournament was officiated by SAFA Makhuduthamaga referees and attracted two SAFA executive management officers.

All participating clubs were gifted soccer balls for their participation, while there were cash prizes for the teams that reached the semi-final. The overall winners walked away with an impressive trophy, while runners up received medals.

FAW Trucks South Africa were the proud sponsors of  all the required soccer kits for each team member participating in the tournament as well as match balls, trophies and medals.

“FAW Trucks South Africa are honoured to sponsor the Phatje Youth Annual Sports tournament as we believe it is a great opportunity to encourage participation in sport and help identify sporting talent. The benefits of youth participating in sports are far reaching and includes promoting a healthy lifestyle while also preventing youth from getting involved in crime or under age alcohol use,” says Yongjun Li, CEO of FAW Trucks South Africa.

The sponsorship handover took place at the Masemola Tribal offices where Yongjun Li, CEO of FAW Trucks South Africa, physically made the donation to the tournament organisers. The handover ceremony was attended by tournament organisers as well as representatives from SAFA and government. Thomas Makgabo Sibushi Kgomo, the chief director of the department of sports, art, culture and recreation for the Limpopo Province delivered words of support as part of the proceedings.

“2023 sees FAW Trucks celebrate 29 years in South Africa, and we are heavily invested in the local economy as a significant employer and a local manufacturer and as such we feel that it is our duty to assist local communities and initiatives such as this, whenever possible,” concluded Li.

Ends

• 2023 will see FAW Trucks celebrate 30 years in South Africa.
• The brand plans on producing their 15 000th unit during the course of the year.
• 2023 will see FAW Trucks launch a number of new models.

Johannesburg, 2022 – 2022 was a bumper year for FAW Trucks South Africa with a number of key achievements that saw the brand firmly stamp its authority on the South African commercial vehicle market. 

FAW remains committed to offering its customers high quality products, that are well suited to local conditions and users and come standard with high levels of safety, convenience and comfort, while representing excellent value for money.

FAW Trucks are inherently fuel-efficient and in June this was confirmed when a JH6 28.500FT, was put to the test on an identical route against some of the best brands in the country and went on to claim second place in the Focus Transport Truck Test.

In August, FAW Trucks was awarded silver status at the NADA DSi awards, which highlights the importance that the organisation places on its relationship with its dealer network. 

In February FAW Trucks surpassed the 8000th unit of production and this momentum continued throughout the year, with the 10 000th unit rolling off the production line in November, just eight years since the plant in Coega, Gqeberha began production.

Despite these significant achievements FAW Trucks are not resting on their laurels and are already looking forward to achieving even greater success in 2023.

In 2023 FAW plan to introduce a number of new models in all segments, further expanding the already comprehensive product offering and ensuring that they can continue to meet the needs of the South African customers, with a wide variety of solutions and the latest technology, across all segments of the commercial vehicle industry.

One of FAW Trucks biggest goals for 2023 is to surpass 15 000 units of production. The manufacturing facility recently invested in a number of new employees in order to meet their recent production milestones and will integrate this additional manpower while also incorporating modifications to the existing factory processes and technology in order to meet these targets. 

“The fact that there are plans in place to reach our 15 000th unit of production in such a short space of time, is purely based on demand for the product by local customers who value our built in Africa, for Africa strategy, says Yongjun Li, CEO of FAW Trucks South Africa.

FAW Trucks will also be expanding their dealer network to ensure that they have widespread representation throughout South Africa to meet this growing demand. This will include the opening of new dealers in a number of new as well as existing locations. These dealers will include both fully fledged sales and service dealers as well as dealers focused solely on service as the brand endeavours to improve their parts and aftersales distribution and servicing ability, especially in close to proximity to large fleet owners or operations.

FAW Trucks look forward to celebrating their 30th year in South Africa in 2023. Over three decades they have grown in popularity and market share by offering customers products that represent excellent value for money in the extra-heavy, heavy, medium and light commercial vehicle segments and they will continue to do so.

“2023 is set to be a massive year for FAW Trucks and we look forward to celebrating our 30th year by continuing to deliver on our core values, while at the same time improving our offering in all areas, including manufacturing, the dealer network and our product offering,” concludes Li.

• FAW Trucks appeals to all road users to drive safely this festive season.
• Patience and respect is key to heavy and passenger vehicles coexisting safely.
• The FAW Trucks model range is designed with safety in mind.

Johannesburg, 2022 – South Africa has one of the highest road death rates of any country in the world and the bulk of these deaths occur during the festive season. FAW Trucks believe that a little bit of prior planning and patience towards other road users can go along way in making our roads safer.

FAW Trucks take road safety very seriously and do their utmost to offer vehicles that are safe as well as a variety of initiatives to ensure that they remain safe and to promote road safety

For example, safety is inherent to the design of every FAW Truck in their extensive model range. Visibility is key to safe driving and FAW has gone to great lengths to optimise visibility for drivers, this includes A-pillars that are as narrow as possible as well as large windows and windscreens. Rear view mirrors incorporate multi angle, multi mirrors, allowing drivers to also see what is alongside them at road surface level. Large sun visors provide relief when driving at dawn or dusk. Exterior touches include large powerful headlights as well as cab top daytime running lights which all contribute to seeing and being seen in low light conditions.

FAW Trucks believe that one of the first steps towards road safety is using the right vehicle for the job and their wide range of vehicles allows users to tick this box easily. The FAW Trucks model range includes turn key solutions for a number of industries with models in a variety of configurations that cater for the freight carrying, truck tractors as well as a range of tippers an mixers that are ready to work. Fit for purpose models make it easy to comply with loading needs and regulations, road conditions and different usage requirements.

“FAW Trucks are designed with safety in mind however the increased traffic loads on major routes mean that it is imperative that both heavy-duty vehicle operators and regular motorists drive with extra caution during this period to avoid unnecessary accidents and fatalities,” says Yongjun Li, CEO of FAW Trucks South Africa.

Don’t drink and drive

Many South Africans like to unwind over the festive season by indulging in alcoholic beverages and this is a big contributor to fatalities on our roads. The bottom line is that drinking and driving do not mix, especially when you operating a heavy commercial vehicle. Fleet managers should do their utmost to prevent this and take swift action against any offenders.

Many drunken pedestrians also contribute to this statistic and commercial vehicle operators need to be aware of pedestrians who might be under the influence especially when travelling at night in close proximity to towns and cities.

Avoid overloading

Overloading is another big contributing factor to the festive season death toll. Overloading, especially of trailers can lead to axle or tyre failure with catastrophic effects for the tow vehicle and other road users and needs to be avoided at all costs. Operators need to make sure that they adhere to the total permissible weights as well as axle weights. Overloading is not only dangerous but operators could face hefty fines, increased maintenance costs and can shorten the lifespan of their equipment considerably.

Avoid peak times

It is a given that the major highways and byways leading to holiday destinations are going to be busier, so factor that in to the travel time of any trips that you will be doing. If at all possible, try and avoid peak days and times. These include the 16th and 24th of December as well as the 2nd of January and the weekend before school’s resume.

Ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy

While not limited to the festive season, it is essential to ensure that your vehicle is in a roadworthy condition before hitting the road, this will ensure that you reach your destination without any hiccups, will prevent any unroadworthy components from causing an accident and will make legislated roadworthy tests a breeze. The FAW Trucks dealer network will carry out these safety checks at no charge, assisting owners in ensuring that their vehicles are well maintained, in a good condition and safe to operate. These safety checks include the inspection of safety critical components such as tyres, brakes, shocks and windscreens. These components on trailers are just as critical to the overall safety of vehicles and loads. FAW Trucks have a well stocked Parts Distribution Centre  of genuine replacement parts, should anything need replacing and will continue to deliver to their dealer network on a daily basis throughout the festive season in an effort to minimise any potential downtime.

Motorists need to be patient

FAW Trucks appeals to motorists to be patient and treat heavy commercial vehicles with respect when on their holiday journey to ensure that everyone arrives safely where they need to be.

Motorists need to keep in mind that they are sharing the road with vehicles that outclass them in weight by thousands of kilograms. Heavy vehicles need a much longer distance to come to a stop and will very often leave adequate room between themselves and the vehicle in front of them in order to come to a stop safely. Motorists need to avoid seeing that as a gap that they can fill with their car.

The blind spot behind a truck is also significant and the general rule of thumb is that if you can’t see the side mirrors of the truck, the truck driver can’t see you.

Motorists should remember that commercial vehicles have different speed limits according to their weight, which can be 100km/h or 80km/h, so while it might seem like they are driving slowly, they are simply adhering to the law.

“Motorists need to realise that they are going on holiday on the roads that heavy duty operators rely on to earn their salary, a little bit of patience and respect will ensure that everyone gets to their destination safely,” concludes Li.