Author: StephanieR

• Proud history and strong heritage go hand in hand for the FAW brand
• Core values from 27 years ago continue motivate how business is conducted today
• Unrelenting commitment to its customers is part of FAW’s heritage around the globe

• Johannesburg – 23 September 2021 – This Heritage Month, FAW Trucks proudly honours a history that spans almost 70 years, but also recommits to its heritage as a manufacturer of reliable commercial vehicles of high quality and a company that remains committed to the markets in which it operates.

  To fully appreciate the story of FAW Trucks, one must understand the difference between history and heritage. Although the two are closely related, in layman’s terms, history refers to events that happens in the past. On the other hand, heritage is what has survived from the past.

  So, for instance, FAW producing China’s first truck in 1953 is part of the company’s history. The fact that FAW has, since those early days, focused on its core vision of total customer satisfaction by ensuring that its vehicles are produced to exacting standard, is part of the company’s heritage.

  An impressive global history

  FAW, with its headquarters located in Changchun, Jilin, China, was established in 1953 and the company is commonly considered to be the Cradle of China’s vehicle industry.

  Since its inception, the FAW Group has developed – amongst others – extra-heavy, heavy, medium and light commercial vehicles. It has 17 wholly owned subsidiaries and 15 holding companies, four of which are listed. The Group employs more than 130 000 people and has assets in excess of R240 billion, while boasting an annual sales volume of over 3,1 million vehicles.

  The FAW Group commenced its export programme in 1984 and currently provides products and services to more than 70 markets across six major export regions around the globe, of which South Africa is one. The Group has more than 50 Tier 1 agents and in excess of 350 Tier 2 distributors in these regions.

  The Group has its own dedicated product planning, development, engineering, design, testing and verification facility, as well as certification capabilities. It is China’s largest base for the research, development and testing of finished vehicles, bodies, chassis, engines, replacement parts, new processes and new materials.

  
  Laying down roots in South Africa

  In 1994 FAW Vehicle Manufacturers SA (Pty) Ltd. was registered by its founder, Richard H. Leiter, with the FAW Group Corporation as majority shareholder.

  In 1999 the FAW 22.210FD Flat Nose model was introduced in South Africa and by 2002 it had become necessary to expand and upgrade the company’s Johannesburg facility in order to incorporate a fully-fledged parts warehouse. In 2005 the J5 was launched on local soil and due – in part – to its popularity, FAW Vehicle Manufacturers SA opened dedicated branches in Durban and Cape Town in 2010.

  A major milestone in the history of the local operation followed in 2012 when FAW Africa Investments Co. Ltd and the China-Africa Development Fund announced a significant investment in FAW Vehicle Manufacturers SA. Sprouting from this, FAW’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facility at Coega, built at a cost of R600 million, was officially opened in 2014.

  In 2015 the 8.140FL was introduced locally, setting FAW Trucks on a steady path of sales success in the heavy vehicle segment of the commercial vehicle market, which saw FAW Vehicle Manufacturers SA win the FAW Import & Export Corporation’s coveted Best Agent Award in 2017. A year later the company also received the Most Improved Award in the commercial vehicle category of the NADA Dealer Satisfaction Survey.

  By 2019 FAW Trucks had already assembled 5 000 units at the Coega manufacturing facility and in 2021 the 7 000^th unit came off the assembly line. This year also saw the local introduction of the JH6 28.500FT AMT and the 8.140FL-AT.

  Today, FAW Trucks has 22 dealerships and service centres located around the country and continues to cater to the unique needs of local customers by providing vehicles that are built in South Africa, for Africa.

  Taking the FAW heritage to heart

  “In South Africa we go to great lengths to honour the brand’s legacy. This includes maintaining and strengthening the identity and core values that have been prevalent within the company since its establishment in China all those years ago,” says Yongjun Li, CEO of FAW Trucks SA.

  FAW’s four core values of respect, communication, cooperation and compliance – which have been at the heart of the company’s identity since the very beginning – will continue to steer the way it does business in South Africa. These values have always been the main motivation behind how the company interacts with its customers, employees, dealers, suppliers and business partners, as well as with the communities in which it operates.

  In both China and South Africa, another big part of the heritage of FAW Trucks stems from its unrelenting commitment to providing buyers with products of high quality that are not only well suited to local conditions, but also boast high levels of safety, convenience and comfort. This was a key focus of the local company when it was formed over 27 years ago, and remains as important today.

  “Also part of our heritage is FAW Trucks’ reputation for strength, reliability, ease of operation and value for money. This goes hand in hand with our focus on providing customers with dedicated service and support of the highest quality,” Li continues.

  FAW Trucks is committed to bringing to market products of high quality that are well suited to local conditions, boast high levels of safety, convenience and comfort, and represent excellent value for money through competitive pricing and affordable running costs. At the same time it promises buyers added peace of mind through reliable and efficient aftersales service, maintenance and backup. It is, in short, the FAW way.

  “South Africa is a country with a rich cultural heritage, marked by the diversity, tenacity and resilience of its people. At FAW Trucks South Africa, we are inspired by this and will continue to strive towards providing local customers the products and services they require and deserve, while at the same time entwining our heritage with that of the proud citizens of this country in order to continue building a proud history and a brighter future,” concludes Li.

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• • 8.140FL with manual transmission remains a popular choice in the highly competitive HCV market
  • A highly versatile combination of ruggedness, durability and cost-efficiency
  • Delivering on FAW’s promise of practicality, reliability, value for money and easy of operation

Johannesburg – 22 September 2021 – FAW’s sales success in the heavy commercial vehicle segment of the South African market is thanks – in large part – to the smallest offering in its line-up, the popular 8.140FL. Hailed as a practical and versatile model, it appeals to customers in the farming and agriculture sector, small contractors and businesses and fleet operators alike.

The 8.140FL with manual transmission has proven time and again that, despite its modest dimensions, it packs a mean punch. FAW went to great lengths to ensure that it combines cost-efficiency with the best possible payload and the best turnaround time, without sacrificing any of the quality for which the brand is known. In fact, when it was first introduced, FAW Trucks was lauded for providing local customers with a vehicle that offered the same ruggedness and durability of its larger offerings, but in smaller and dimensions.

“Customer feedback has revealed that one of the main reasons for the 8.140FL’s popularity over the past six years is the fact that, before it was introduced locally, it underwent rigorous testing to ensure that it can withstand the unique – and often harsh – working conditions associated with African markets,” explains Yongjun Li, CEO of FAW Trucks SA.

“The South African commercial vehicle market is a very competitive one,” Li continues. “Customers expect their trucks to be tough and durable, as well as fuel efficient, lightweight and technologically advanced. Thanks to FAW Trucks’ commitment to continuous research, development and testing, the 8.140FL delivers this and so much more.”

The 8.140FL is sourced from the FAW China Corporation and assembled at FAW Trucks SA’s production facility at Coega, Gqeberha.

Emphasising its status as a versatile workhorse, practicality is a key feature of the 8.140FL. It has a body and payload allowance of six tonnes and provides seating for a driver and two passengers. Apart from a spacious and ergonomically designed cab, additional comfort is provided through the inclusion of air-conditioning and a radio with MP3 and USB functionality as standard. In short, it has all the features of a heavy-duty truck, but at a price more akin to a medium-duty product.

Of course, part of its appeal is its Euro 3 compliant, high-pressure, common rail four-cylinder in-line Cummins ISF 3,8-litre engine. This powerplant is turbocharged and water- and intercooled, making it ideally suited to the heavy commercial vehicle (HCV) segment of the market. With a maximum power output of 105 kW at 2 600 r/min, it has a healthy 450 Nm of peak torque on tap between 1 200 and 2 200 r/min,

Apart from exceptional performance, the engine also offers low operating costs, low weight, low noise and low emissions. Advanced thermal engineering has made it capable of running at higher operating temperatures, while at the same time reducing the size and cost of the vehicle’s cooling package. The modular architecture of the engine allows for easy access and single-side servicing, reducing operating costs.

Linked to this tried and trusted engine, is a ZF six-speed manual synchromesh transmission. A single-plate, hydraulic air-assisted clutch is part of the package.

Effective braking is ensured by a four-circuit protection valve, full-air brake system which is easier to maintain than vacuum-hydraulic or air-hydraulic braking systems. The addition of ABS and an air-cut parking brake on a heavy commercial truck is invaluable to the safety of the driver, truck and payload.

The suspension is of the straight ladder-type. It features semi-elliptical leaf springs, with double acting shock absorbers at the front and auxiliary springs at the rear. The axles, graded for a permissible three tonnes in front and six tonnes at the back, provide ample carrying capacity.

The 8.140FL is available from FAW Trucks dealers countrywide, and can be specified in a number of body derivatives that include a drop-side, a taut-liner option, a van body, a tipper, a roll-back and a dry-freight insulated body. Customers can also choose to purchase the chassis cab and fit their own truck bodies to suit their specific needs.

It is sold with a two-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and benefits from the full extent of sales and/or service from representative outlets across South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana. FAW Trucks has a dedicated national parts distribution centre in Spartan, supported by its branches in Durban, Harrismith and Cape Town, which act as hubs to support all FAW Trucks representatives and self-service operators.

“In South Africa, FAW Trucks products have become synonymous with practicality, reliability, value for money and ease of operation. The 8.140FL is no different, and carries all the hallmarks that FAW products are renowned for, namely strength, reliability and ease of operation,” concludes Li.   

• • FAW Trucks’ partnership with the BHL Group spans ten successful years
  • Two companies with a rich local history continue to make inroads in Southern African markets
  • BHL Group celebrates 25 years as a successful family-owned and -run business  
  • Shared vision for the future motivates continued cooperation

   

• Johannesburg – 7 September 2021 – A successful partnership is built on five pillars: open communication, accessibility, flexibility, mutual benefit, and measurable results. Over a ten-year period FAW Trucks has built such a partnership with the BHL Group and today, both companies are reaping the benefits as their representation, impact and success on the African continent continue to gain momentum.

  “There is a very strong synergy between the local FAW Trucks operation and the BHL group,” says Yongjun Li, CEO of FAW Trucks SA. “Both companies have a proud local heritage, as well as an enviable reputation for being able to recognise the needs and potential of the African market and catering to that. As a result, both have prospered.”

  From humble beginnings to local success

  In 1994 Richard H Leiter recognised the potential of bringing an affordable and durable Asian product with an impressive pedigree and rich history to the South African market. Partnering with the FAW Group Corporation, China’s oldest and largest vehicle manufacturer, his aim was to offer local buyers vehicles that would have the durability and longevity to last in the tough African environment, but would also be affordable and would offer low cost of ownership.

  Thus FAW Vehicle Manufacturers SA (PTY) was born, with the FAW Group Corporation as majority shareholder. Since then, FAW Trucks SA has firmly entrenched itself in the local commercial vehicle landscape.

  The BHL story starts is 1996 when brothers Buks and Pieter van Rensburg established their business in Johannesburg and Swaziland. Initially, they used two trucks owned by an in-house contractor to transport timber and sugar from Swaziland to Johannesburg, and cement and cooking oil from Johannesburg to Swaziland. Soon a second sub-contractor, Kapp Transport was hauled in and today Jacques Kapp, the son of that sub-contractor is the technical manager of the BHL Group.

  By the end of 1996 BHL had 30 in-house sub-contractors and in 1999 the company bought five trucks of its own. By 2003 that fleet had grown to 40.

  Satisfied that they had achieved their goals in South Africa, the Van Rensburg brothers sold the local arm of the business and turned their attention to Zambia. What started as a contract to run five side tipper trucks between Ndola in Zambia and Lonshi in the DRC, has since ballooned into an operation that employs 1 000 people in four countries.

  Today the BHL Group owns 330 trucks and manages an additional 300 belonging to sub-contractors and operates in Zambia, the DRC, Namibia, Botswana, South Africa and Zimbabwe. The Van Rensburgs are the majority shareholders, Buks being the CEO and Pieter occupying the position of COO. The other two shareholders/ directors are Elrick de Klerk (CFO) and Duncan Dukhi (CMO).

  Building strong relationships that last

  “Thanks to an extraordinary management team that handles the day-to-day running of the business, BHL has acquired a reputation for nurturing long-term relationships with our employees, customers and suppliers,” says Buks.

  As one of those suppliers, FAW Trucks has an equally firm foothold on the African continent as it prides itself on providing trucks that are built in Africa, for Africa.

  The South African operation, with its SKD assembly plant at Coega, Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), has distribution rights for the Southern African Development Community and distributes directly to Botswana, Namibia, Lesotho, Swaziland, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique.

  ”Much the same as the BHL Group, FAW Trucks strives to ensure that we build long-term relationships by providing our customers with dedicated service and support of the highest quality,” explains Li.

  Innovation as the cornerstone of success

  In African markets, customers expect their trucks to withstand a rough operational environment, but also expect the vehicles to be fuel efficient, lightweight and technologically advanced.

  With the FAW Group Corporation – China’s oldest and largest vehicle manufacturer – as its majority shareholder, the local operation is able to provide South African customers with products that have been researched and developed to excel in even the harshest working environments, without compromising technology and innovation.

  Innovation is also very much part of BHL’s DNA.

  In 2011 Buks came up with the idea of a dual-purpose trailer and in conjunction with Henred Fruehauf (SA Truck Bodies) the concept of a copper concentrate tipper combined with a sulphuric acid tanker became a reality. This has since also morphed into a trailer used to transport fuel and manganese.

  Building on this idea, design work on the first-ever fuel tanker/copper flatbed link trailer commenced. After many years of planning, the final product is now being used between Botswana, Walvis Bay and South Africa.

  “We are understandably proud of this innovation, particularly because of the great benefits it offers in terms of carbon footprint, road congestion and generating additional revenue,” Buks boasts.

  Firstly, because all fuel tankers normally travel one way loaded and return empty, the environmental impact of creating backloads on the dual trailer is tremendous. By working more efficiently, less harmful CO₂ is emitted into the atmosphere.

  The second benefit is that, by running loads both ways, the trailers will have a huge impact on decongesting already over-congested roads in Africa, and the rest of the world.

  Ensuring a healthier bottom line

  Another major benefit of the dual trailers is a financial one. Zambia, for instance, only moves about 10 % of the imported fuel with Zambian transporters. The dual trailers will make it possible for Zambia to earn much needed foreign revenue by enabling local carriers to transport at least 50% of imported fuel. 

  Providing financial benefits for its customers is just as important to FAW Trucks.

  “Overall lifetime costs on FAW models are crucial to the good reputation of the brand in South Africa. We have come to realise that low initial capital outlay and sound build quality, backed up by dependable service and parts supply are important, as is low fuel consumption,” says Li. “Because our products tick all these boxes, they have become very popular with truck owners who appreciate overall value for money.

  “This is especially true in a challenging economic environment where transport and logistics operators seek to expand the scope of their fleets in order to capitalise on all available opportunities.”

  Achievements and accolades galore

  BHL has certainly capitalised on opportunities in the African market and as has many noteworthy achievements and firsts to its name.

  In 2004, at the Bwana Mkuba mine in Zambia, the company put into operation the first-ever three-axle side tipper double bin and in 2006 it started using the first side-tipper links in Zambia. This year it achieved another major milestone by becoming the first company in the world to use the dual fuel/copper link trailer. 

  The Van Rensburgs insist that the formation of their partnership with FAW Trucks is also worth mentioning as, in 2012, BHL became the first Zambian transporter to use vehicles from FAW Trucks.

  Since that initial purchase, the BHL CEO has sung the praises of FAW Trucks on numerous occasions and insists that the products from FAW have played a significant part in the success of the company. “FAW listens to its customers,” he says. “It is always open to suggestions on how to improve its products and service and will put a great deal of time and effort into effecting those improvements.

  “Another major achievement for us came in 2017, when we commenced with the construction of a new road from Zambia to Walvis Bay, which shortened the route by some 220 km. This was a corporate social responsibility project for us as there was no financial assistance from government,” Van Rensburg explains.

  “Our efforts have paid off, though, as it has helped to grow our market share to around 60% along the corridor.”

  FAW Trucks has also celebrated numerous milestones in its 25-year history in South Africa.

  In 2012 the decision was taken to establish a local manufacturing plant in Coega, Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) and the first vehicle rolled off this assembly line in July 2014. The facility was built at a cost of R600 million and spans some 30 000m² and has, to date, assembled more than 7 000 units.

  Further good news was the fact that FAW Trucks took the top spot in the heavy commercial vehicle segment of the local market for the first time in the first quarter of this year.

  Exciting new prospects and projects

  This year, BHL launched a new operation in Botswana, transporting copper from the north-west of the country to Johannesburg and Walvis Bay. A new company, Bulx Group Botswana, was also registered as Botswana offers various benefits – including economical and political stability – to investors. This diversification is aimed at expanding the company’s operations along the Trans Kalahari corridor.

  Because of the limited loads back to Botswana, it was decided that the dual fuel/flatbed link trailers would be ideally suited for the operation. 

  Further diversification came with the commencement of operations along the Durban corridor via Botswana 

  “Once again we have pioneered a game changing strategy,” says Buks. “We use our Zambian fleet with Zambian drivers up to the Mafikeng border. From there we switch to our South African fleet and drivers to transport the copper to Durban without passing through Gauteng, which is a high-risk hijacking area.”

  To cater for this expansion, the company acquired 35 additional FAW J5N 28.380FT units to transport the roughly 5 000 tonnes of copper it expects to transport. As before, the hardiness, driver comfort, accessibility and price of spares and excellent fuel consumption offered by FAW’s trucks were deciding factors in the purchase.

  Likewise, FAW Trucks also continues to expand in order to keep up with market trends and in response to customer requirements.

  A prime example is the recent introduction of the 8.140FL-AT. This new model is fitted with a Euro 3 Cummins ISF 3,8-litre engine, an Allison 1000 six-speed automatic transmission and a full air dual circuit WABCO braking system with ABS.

  The brand was also successfully relaunched in Namibia earlier this year, bringing its count of dealerships and service centres located in Southern Africa to 29.

  Living the African dream

  With the recent inauguration of His Excellency, Mr Hakainde Hichilema, as Zambian president, both BHL and FAW Trucks have expressed renewed confidence in the potential of markets on the African continent.

  “The Zambian currency has already strengthened against the US dollar and we are confident that with the new government’s vision and policies, Zambia will emerge as one of the top five African countries in the next ten years,” the BHL CEO comments.

  “It was heartening to see the example the Zambian people set for the rest of Africa by exercising their democratic rights at the polling station in order to oust a regime they believe had let them down.”

  Of course this renewed enthusiasm is also good news for FAW Trucks.

  “FAW Trucks is, and will always be, committed to Africa and its people. As China grew then, so will Africa grow now, and FAW Trucks is ideally placed to benefit from the increasing demand for vehicles on the continent,” says Li. “We are committed to expanding our dealer and service footprint accordingly and we will continue to consider opportunities to expand our presence across the African region.”

  A match made in heaven 

  BHL and FAW Trucks have been in partnership for some ten years and in that time FAW Isando has been BHL’s port of call for all its purchasing, servicing and maintenance needs.

  FAW Isando was established in 1994 and has consistently been the top-performing dealership for the brand, priding itself on building strong relationships with its customers by providing great service through all levels of the buying and ownership experience.

  “FAW Isando has proven time and again that it places a high premium on forging long-term relationships with its customers. BHL expects dedicated service and 24/7 support, and dealer principal, Johan du Plessis and his team have consistently gone above and beyond the call of duty to ensure that all our needs are met,” the Van Rensburg brothers say.

  “Since we bought our first FAW trucks in 2012, we have been impressed by their ruggedness, durability and value for money. They are extremely well suited to the harsh working conditions on the African continent, while the availability of parts and the willingness of staff to address the needs of customers provide additional peace of mind.

  “The newly-elected President of Zambia is quoted as saying that the past is behind us and what was done was done. He has encouraged fellow Africans to build a better future from now going forward. This is a sentiment we can appreciate as our company continues to move forward and we look forward to having FAW Trucks by our side every step of the way.”

  Concludes Li: “FAW Trucks believes in the potential of the African continent as well as that of BHL. At the same time, BHL has believed in us. Together the two companies have expanded their footprint across Southern Africa and the partnership will continue to stand us in good stead into the future.”

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• • Strategically placed dealerships and service centres ensure that FAW Trucks is well represented in Southern Africa
  • More than 20 dedicated local facilities and another seven in neighbouring countries maintain the highest level of customer care
  • Quality service and consistent parts supply complement reliable product offerings

   

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• Johannesburg – 27 August 2021 – For the past 27 years FAW Trucks has boldly shown its commitment to local customers by steadily growing its product offering and establishing its own assembly plant in Gqeberha in 2014, while also strengthening its presence across Southern Africa.

  With 24 dealerships and service centres located around South Africa, and another seven situated in other Southern African countries, the brand is well positioned to capitalise on the increased sales momentum it is experiencing.

  The strategic location of FAW dealerships and service centres has played a major part in the impressive sales success the brand has enjoyed, particularly since January this year, when it took the top spot in the heavy commercial vehicle (HCV) segment of the local market for the first time. By concentrating on larger metropolitan areas and industrial hubs, as well as key cities and towns along major routes, FAW Trucks has placed itself in an ideal position to cater to various markets. These include transport and logistics, agriculture, mining and construction.

  There are currently three sales and service centres in Johannesburg, two in Pretoria and one in Midvaal, covering Gauteng. Facilities in Cape Town, Gqeberha and George handle sales and services in the Western and Eastern Cape. In Mpumalanga there are also three centres, located in Ermelo, Middelburg and Nelspruit. Centres situated in Mahikeng and Klerksdorp look after clients in the North-West Province, while the Free State is covered by centres in Bloemfontein, Bethlehem and Harrismith. KwaZulu-Natal customers can turn to centres in either Pinetown, Port Shepstone or Richards Bay with their sales or servicing needs. The Northern Cape and Limpopo province have one sales and service centre each, located in Upington and Polokwane respectively.

  FAW Trucks is literally represented in all four corners of the country and each facility is committed to providing products and service of the highest quality.

  “With FAW Trucks’ reputation for strength, reliability, ease of operation and value for money, the units virtually sell themselves. Our other focus is to ensure that we provide customers with dedicated service and support of the highest quality. Buyers need to know that we are here to stay and that we will honour all warranties, service plans and aftersales requirements. They also need to know that they can rely on a reliable and steady supply of parts. FAW Trucks are built to last and our dealerships and service centres need to instil that same confidence, no matter where they are located,” says Yongjun Li, CEO of FAW Trucks SA.

  A prime example of this commitment is FAW Trucks Eastern Cape, which has been one of the brand’s top dealership in South Africa for the past two years. “When our trucks leave the showroom floor after a sale, clients can expect long-term, dedicated services and 24/7 support, ensuring their investment gives them the returns expected of a reliable brand,” explains dealer principal, Colin van Eyk.

  This sentiment is echoed by Johan du Plessis, dealer principal at FAW Isando, flagship and top selling dealer. “We go the extra mile to look after our customers and to make sure that we offer them the best deals possible. In addition, our aftersales department ensures that customers’ vehicles are maintained and serviced to exacting standards and downtime is kept to a minimum,” he says.

  As mentioned, operating along the main routes of the country is one of the ways in which FAW Trucks aims to provide customers with quick, effective and convenient service.

  FAW Harrismith, for instance, is located on the main transport route between Johannesburg and Durban on the N3 and is also within close proximity to the N5, which makes the facility a strategic service point for the FAW brand. “A lot of FAW’s are sold in Harrismith”, says branch manager, Louis de la Rouvière. “We look after customers from the Villiers toll gate all the way to the toll plaza at Van Reenen’s Pass, after which they can also be served by FAW Pinetown.”

  A dedicated national parts distribution centre in Spartan, supported by its branches in Durban, Harrismith and Cape Town, act as hubs to support all FAW Trucks representatives and self-service operators, no matter where they are located in South Africa.

  FAW customers in other Southern African countries can rely on the same level of dedication and service as there are quite a number of sales and service facilities outside of South Africa’s borders. Botswana, Namibia, Swaziland, Lesotho, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Mozambique all have thriving dealerships that also offer extensive aftersales services and care. The South African operation, with its SKD assembly plant at Coega, has distribution rights for the Southern African Development Community and distributes directly to these countries.

  In fact, FAW Trucks recently relaunched the brand in Namibia, aiming to reaffirm its commitment to customers in that country. By providing consistently high levels of customer service and aftersales support from its premises in Windhoek, it continues to flourish in that market.

  Says Li: “FAW Trucks already has a solid reputation in the South African market. Apart from ensuring that sales keep ticking over, our dealerships must continue to build on this reputation by providing dedicated

  service and support of the highest quality. Customers need to be able to trust in the longevity of dealerships and service centres, as well as the availability of parts, as much as that of our products.

  “Building on what the brand has already achieved since 1994, we are confident that sales figures will continue to climb. We are committed to expanding our dealer and service footprint accordingly and we will continue to consider opportunities to expand our presence across the African region. Our current success is thanks, in large part, to the dedication and commitment of our existing dealer and service network. They are, indeed, the backbone of our organisation,” he concludes

• • Partnership started in 2012 with the acquisition of 85 trucks
  • Unbeatable FAW reliability, fuel efficiency and value for money continue to motivate expansion of fleet
  • Understanding the intricacies and unique challenges of the African market is key to achieving success

   

• Johannesburg – 20 August 2021 – The partnership between FAW Trucks and Buks Haulage Limited (BHL) stretches back over almost a decade, starting with the purchase of 85 first-generation 26.380 units in 2012. Today, BHL owns around 200 units from FAW Trucks and plans to expand its fleet as its business on the African continent continues to grow.

  Since that initial purchase in 2012, Buks van Rensburg, the CEO of BHL, has sung the praises of FAW Trucks on numerous occasions and says that the products from FAW have played a significant part in the success of the company, which was established in Zambia in 2004.

  “The treacherous and unpredictable road conditions one encounters in Zambia and other African countries will test any truck to its limits,” says Van Rensburg. “We own a fleet of 300 trucks from various brands, but the robust products from FAW Trucks have consistently proven that they can cope in even the harshest conditions.”

  According to Van Rensburg, BHL found that FAW trucks are robust and engineered to handle these conditions because they undergo stringent testing before being brought to market. In addition, the electronics on these Euro 2 compliant trucks are perfectly suited to the unique challenges of the African working environment.

  “In 2012 I visited China with the aim of acquiring trucks for our operation in Zambia,” Van Rensburg recalls. “However, upon my return I was contacted by a representative from FAW Isando, who had been made aware of my requirements and was convinced that FAW Trucks would be able to fulfil my business needs.

  “I agreed to a meeting and was immediately impressed. Not only were the products from FAW Trucks well specced, they were also more than capable of handling the operating conditions in Africa. I placed an order for 85 trucks, many of which are still running almost 10 years later.”

  The rest, as the saying goes, is history. BHL has been running 28.380FT side tippers to transport copper concentrate from mines in Zambia to the country’s smelters, and then to transport the beneficiated material over 2 400 km from the smelters to Walvis Bay in Namibia, from where it is exported to China. Raw material imported through Walvis Bay is then transported back to Zambia and the DRC.

  BHL is one of FAW Isando’s many high-profile clients in the transport and logistics, construction and marketing industries who run fleets consisting of freight carriers and truck tractors as well as tipper and mixer trucks. The common thread between them is that with a host of different engine capacities, payload allowances and body options on offer, businesses can rely on FAW Trucks’ products to get the job done.

  The fact that all models carry a two-year/unlimited kilometre warranty adds further peace of mind and was also a factor in Van Rensburg’s buying decision.

  “Growing one’s business is always a key focus, so BHL is constantly looking for new opportunities. In 2017 we commenced with the construction of a new road from Zambia to Walvis Bay, which shortened the route by some 220 km. This was basically a corporate social responsibility project for us as there was no financial assistance from government,” Van Rensburg explains. “Our efforts have paid off, though, as it has helped to grow our market share to around 60% along the corridor.”

  BHL is also expanding its operations to Botswana and as such has acquired 35 additional 28.380 units to transport the roughly 5 000 tonnes of copper it expects to export from that country. As before, the hardiness, driver comfort, accessibility and price of spares and excellent fuel consumption offered by FAW’s trucks were deciding factors in the purchase.

  “Innovation is an important pillar of the BHL business model and here, too, FAW Trucks has been able to cater to our unique needs,” comments Van Rensburg.

  “In 2011 we designed a custom trailer to transport sulphuric acid to our mining clients. Normally tankers deliver the acid to the mines and then return empty. Our design features two tankers, located at the front and rear of the trailer, with a tipper located between the two. We can therefore take the sulphuric acid to the mine and then return with concentrate loaded on the tipper part. This means that the truck is never empty, which is extremely cost effective.

  “FAW was the obvious choice because of its payload and relatively light weight, with the proven fuel efficiency as an added – and very welcome – bonus. It also has a positive impact on our carbon footprint and the number of vehicles on the road.”

  Commenting on the commercial vehicle market in the rest of Africa, Van Rensburg points out that the market share of Chinese trucks in Africa was relatively small when BHL first started operations. Since acquiring its fleet of FAW Trucks models, however, the brand has become increasingly popular.

  “Our company seems to have been quite a trendsetter in that respect,” Van Rensburg jokes. “Our competitors see how FAW contributes to our success and now most of them are also running fleets from FAW Trucks.”

  “In the highly competitive African commercial vehicle market, durability and quality are key factors,” explains Yongjun Li, CEO of FAW Trucks South Africa.. “Customers expect their trucks to withstand a rough operational environment. They also require vehicles that are fuel efficient, lightweight and technologically advanced. FAW Trucks is able to provide this and more by bringing to market robust, high-quality vehicles at an attractive price.”

  Van Rensburg is adamant that he will confidently recommend FAW Trucks products to anyone who is in the market for a commercial vehicle. “FAW listens to its customers,” he says. “It is always open to

  suggestions on how to improve its products and service and will put a great deal of time and effort into effecting those improvements.

  “It is precisely this attitude which has seen FAW Trucks make great strides over the past ten years and I predict that in another decade Chinese brands will far surpass their more expensive European counterparts in terms of sales.”

  FAW Isando dealer principal, Johan du Plessis, echoes this sentiment. “FAW Trucks  has a clear vision of providing our customers with durable and affordable commercial vehicles and long-term service plans and support. When our trucks leaves the showroom floor after a sale, clients can expect long-term, dedicated services and 24/7 support, ensuring their investment gives them the returns expected of modern trucks.”

  Van Rensburg is very proud of BHL’s South African roots and points out that this also creates a strong synergy with the FAW Trucks brand, which is proudly built in South Africa, for Africa. “FAW Trucks believed in the potential of BHL and took us on as a pilot customer, helping us to build our market share in the industry in which we operate. One could say that the two companies built their brands together.

  “We look forward to a bright future and a continued partnership with FAW Trucks,” Van Rensburg concludes.

• Caption:

• Left – right: Johan Du Plessis (Dealer Principle – FAW Trucks Isando), Ian Van Rensburg (General Manager – BHL Botswana), Buks Van Rensburg (CEO – BHL Group), Duncan Dukhie (New Business Development Manager – BHL Group), Eugene Van Der Berg (National Fleet and Used Manager – FAW Trucks)

   

• A virtually unbeatable product that is both practical and versatile
• Never-say-die 6DM3 engine sourced from FAW’s engine plant in Wuxi, China
• Dependable parts supply and aftersales service as important as product reliability

Johannesburg – 16 August 2021 – With a local history that spans some 30 years, FAW Trucks prides itself on providing South African customers with affordable, high-quality and durable products that are suited to the unique demands of operating in the harsh African environment. The JH6 28.500FT is one such product and has consistently proven that, when it comes to long-hauling, it is virtually unbeatable.

“In our experience, customers in this segment of the market seek truck tractors that are functional and reliable, but also affordable to run and maintain. In addition, they need to offer comfortable and well-equipped cabins, must be easy to operate, provide adequate performance to get the job done and be fuel efficient,” says Yongjun Li, CEO of FAW Trucks South Africa. “The JH6 28.500FT ticks all these boxes and more and this translates into increased profits for their owners.”

The JH6 28.500FT is the largest of the truck tractors from FAW Trucks South Africa.

Key dimensions:

• Wheelbase 3 300 mm + 1 350 mm
• Overall length 6 895 mm
• Cab length 2 646 mm
• Overall width 2 495 mm
• Overall height 3 910 mm
• Front overhang 1 495 mm
• Rear overhang 750 mm
• Cab to rear axle 4 152 mm
• Minimum turning radius 7 500 mm
• Minimum turning diameter 15 000 mm
• Ground clearance 295 mm
• Track 2 042 mm front and 1 850 mm rear
• Chassis outer width 800 mm
• Chassis inner width 640 mm

It is fitted with the manufacturer’s renowned 6DM3 13-litre six-cylinder common-rail turbocharged and intercooled diesel powerplant. This engine develops 370 kW of power at 1 800 r/min and 2 300 Nm of peak torque at 1 400 r/min. Commonly referred to as China’s most efficient engine, it has two fuel tanks of 500 litres each. It goes without saying that this particular attribute makes it a great choice for businesses requiring a vehicle to regularly cover extended distances.

The 6DM3 engine is manufactured in FAW’s engine plant in Wuxi, China. The level of quality and reliability of engines from this facility is exceptional, as is proven by the fact that a customer in China owns a JH6 28.500FT unit which has done over 3.6 million kilometres without requiring any major service or maintenance.

Says Li: “If this isn’t proof enough of the durability of FAW’s powerplants, I can proudly confirm that one of the first units sold in South Africa is still used as a backup vehicle at FAW Trucks’ local headquarters. It carries the original Jiefang designation and has clocked over 1,5 million kilometres.”

Mated to the never-say-die engine of the JH6 28.500FT is a ZF 12-speed TraXon AMT transmission, with parabolic spring suspension front and rear to address vehicle weight requirements.

Mass data:

• Gross vehicle mass 28 000 kg
• Gross combination mass 62 200 kg
• Permissible gross vehicle mass 25 700 kg
• Permissible gross combination mass 56 000 kg
• Permissible front axle mass 7 700 kg
• Permissible rear axle mass 18 000 kg
• Unladen front axle mass 5 330 kg
• Unladen rear axle mass 3 920 kg
• Unladen mass total 9 250 kg

A full air dual circuit WABCO braking system with ABS enhances the JH6 28.500FT safety features.

Befitting its long-hauler status, much focus was placed on ensuring that the cabin of the JH6 28.500FT is as comfortable as possible for the driver and passenger. To this end it features a full floating extended-roof sleeper cab with an innovative flat floor, which optimises interior space. Standard features such as air-conditioning, a radio with a USB port and suspension seating eliminate unnecessary driver fatigue.

“The versatility and practicality of the JH6 28.500FT are two of its main selling points and as a result, some of our clients utilise it for very interesting purposes,” explains Li.

The Concrete Readymix arm of the Scribante Group owns an extensive fleet of FAW Trucks.  Of course, the Scribante name is entrenched in South African motorsport and Scuderia Scribante, the family motorsport team, uses a JH6 28.500FT as a transporter for the two Lamborghini Huracans raced by brothers Aldo and Silvio Scribante in the South African GT3 series. The only conversion made was wrapping the truck in team livery.

All models are designed and engineered to be able to cope with the unique challenges posed by the African environment. To this end, the built-in quality levels from the local assembly plant ensure that the solid chassis and frame continue to provide customers with the positive ownership experience that they have come to expect from the brand.

FAW Trucks recognises that in a challenging economic environment where transport and logistics operators seek to expand the scope of their fleets in order to capitalise on all available opportunities, overall lifetime costs of vehicles are crucial. Thanks to the relatively low initial capital outlay, together with the build quality and the extensively proven reduction in downtime, FAW Trucks provides owners of JH6 28.500FT units with unparalleled value.

Customers want more than affordable products, though. They also want the assurance that parts will be readily available and that maintenance and services will be carried out in a satisfactory and timeous manner. To address this, FAW Trucks has a large parts warehouse at its premises in Spartan, from where it supplies the four main regions in Gauteng, Durban, Harrismith and Cape Town. In addition, service dealers are fully equipped, with highly trained technicians on hand for complete servicing and repairs required for not only JH6 28.500FT units, but all other models from the renowned Chinese manufacturer.

“All models in the current range of FAW Trucks sold in South Africa represent the strength, reliability, affordability and ease of operation that the brand and its products are renowned for. Most importantly, though, the JH6 28.500FT delivers on the promise of a ‘truck built in South Africa for Africa’,” concludes Li.

• • FAW Isando shares brand’s 27-year history in South Africa
  • Modern facility caters to sales, service and maintenance needs of varied commercial vehicle customers
  • Dealership staff committed to maintaining its success in a competitive market

   

  Johannesburg – 3 August 2021 – FAW Trucks has been part of the South African commercial vehicle landscape for more than a quarter of a century and during this time FAW Isando has continued to play a significant part in making it the go-to brand for customers wanting reliable and capable products that represent great value for money.

  FAW Isando was established in 1994 and has consistently been a top-performing dealership for the brand locally, priding itself on building strong relationships with its customers by providing great servicing through all levels of the buying and ownership experience.

  The dealership, with its modern showroom, is co-located with FAW Trucks’ Spartan service centre. The latter consists of a fully rigged workshop with 12 work bays, a component rebuild department, a panel shop, a pre-delivery inspection centre, a fuel pump room and an extensive parts department.

  “At FAW Isando customer service is, and always will be key. We go the extra mile to look after our customers and to make sure that we offer them the best deals possible,” explains dealer principal, Johan du Plessis.

  The same goes for the aftersales department, where workshop manager, Pieter Calitz, and parts supervisor, Louis Phakati, ensure that customers’ vehicles are maintained and serviced to exacting standards and downtime is kept to a minimum.

  “We are a team, and all 44 team members are committed to not only doing their job to the best of their abilities, but also to assist other team members where they can,” Du Plessis says. “For us this has proven to be a recipe for success and has led to many achievements within the FAW realm.

  “The sales staff has, on numerous occasions, been awarded for selling the most units per annum within the FAW network, and in 2018 FAW Isando won the Global Best Distributor Award. In addition, one of our workshop staff members was crowned as the best FAW technician on a national level in 2019.”

  Competing in the medium, heavy and extra-heavy commercial vehicle segments of the market, FAW Trucks has a range of vehicles in different body derivatives that caters to virtually every need and application. According to Du Plessis, the top sellers at the FAW Isando dealership are the 28.380FT, the 33.420FT and the 15.180FL.

  The 28.380FT 6×4 has a full floating, ergonomically designed sleeper cab. Its 9 726 cc, six-cylinder, in-line Weichai WP10 diesel engine is turbocharged and intercooled, and linked to a nine-speed fully synchromeshed manual transmission. A full air dual circuit WABCO braking system with ABS is standard.

  The 33.420FT 6×4 boasts a fully synchromeshed 12-speed manual transmission, full floating ergonomically designed cab and reinforced bumper. It has a 11 600 cc, six-cylinder Weichai WP12 diesel engine that is turbocharged and intercooled. Fitted with a 600-litre fuel tank, it offers impressive fuel consumption figures.

  Featuring a spacious and ergonomically designed semi-sleeper cab, the 15.180FL has a body and payload allowance of 9.8 tonnes. Standard features include air-conditioning and a radio with MP3 and USB functionality. Its FAW 6DF2 Euro 2-compliant 6 557 cc, six-cylinder, in-line turbocharged engine is linked to a fully synchromeshed six-speed transmission and it has a full air dual circuit WABCO braking system with ABS.

  The 6DF2 engine is manufactured in FAW’s engine plant in Wuxi China, which is also responsible for the production of the 6DM3 engine that does duty in the JH6 28.500FT. The level of quality and reliability of engines from this facility is remarkable, as is proven by the fact that a customer in China owns a unit which has done over 3.6 million kilometres without requiring any major overhaul and only regular maintenance.

  Says Du Plessis: “In our experience, the two FT truck tractor models appeal to buyers seeking functionality and reliability, but for whom affordability and low running costs are also important. These two trucks also have impressively low fuel consumption figures, which translate into increased profits for their owners.

  “On the other hand, the 15.180FL is the most affordable eight-tonne truck on the market. Apart from a strong and reliable drivetrain, its very useable payload allowance makes it an excellent workhorse. In addition, low fuel consumption figures and an attractive service plan option ensure that it is cost-effective to maintain and run.”

  FAW Isando has many high-profile clients in the transport and logistics, construction and marketing industries who run fleets consisting of freight carriers and truck tractors as well as tipper and mixer trucks. The common thread is that with a host of different engine capacities, payload allowances and body options on offer, businesses big and small can rely on FAW Trucks’ products to get the job done. Adding peace of mind is the fact that all 15.180 models carry a two-year/unlimited kilometre warranty.

  “FAW Trucks already has a solid reputation in the South African market. Apart from ensuring that sales keep ticking over, our dealerships must continue to build on this reputation by providing dedicated service and support of the highest quality. Customers need to be able to trust in the longevity of mainstay dealerships such as FAW Isando as much as that of our products,” says Yongjun Li, CEO of FAW Trucks SA.

  Du Plessis is adamant that FAW Isando and its dedicated staff are up to the challenge. “Our vision for the future is to continue growing the dealership and, in turn, the brand’s market share by providing the best sales and aftersales experience possible, thus ensuring that our customers keep coming back,” he concludes.

   

• • 8.140FL now available with a six-speed automatic gearbox
  • Addition to transmission offering bolsters performance and fuel efficiency
  • New model represents all the key attributes of the FAW Trucks brand

   

  Johannesburg – 22 July 2021 – FAW Trucks prides itself on paying attention to what its customers require. It is in response to a strong demand for a value-for-money automatic offering in the medium-weight segment of the commercial vehicle market that it is introducing the 8.140FL-AT.

  The 8.140FL-AT has a body and payload allowance of six tonnes, making it the ideal partner for businesses and fleet owners who require a vehicle of smaller dimensions, but with the same durability and ruggedness of its larger brethren. It provides seating for a driver and two passengers and features a spacious and ergonomically designed cab, while air-conditioning and a radio with MP3 and USB functionality are standard.

  In its latest iteration it is fitted with a Euro 3 Cummins ISF 3,8-litre engine, an Allison 1000 six-speed automatic transmission and a full air dual circuit WABCO braking system with ABS.

  When the 8.140FL was first launched in the local market, initially with only a six-speed manual transmission, FAW Trucks had taken a strategic decision to redesign and re-engineer the truck to be better suited to the demands of the local medium-truck market. Special attention was paid to combining cost-efficiency with the best possible payload and the best turnaround time, without sacrificing any of the quality for which the brand is known.

  The SKD kits from FAW China Corporation include the cab, the chassis, axles and other sub-assembly components. Additional parts are sourced internationally and locally. This includes the full-air brakes and the anti-lock braking system, the power steering unit, the air-cut parking brake and the engine.

  The latter is a high-pressure, common rail four-cylinder in-line powerplant from the reputable Cummins range and is ideally suited to the medium-weight truck category. Fitted with a turbocharger, it is water-cooled and intercooled.

  Key features of the engine include exceptional performance, low operating costs, low weight, low noise and low emissions capabilities. Advanced thermal engineering has made it capable of running at higher operating temperatures, while at the same time reducing the size and cost of the vehicle’s cooling package. The modular architecture of the engine allows for easy access and single-side servicing, reducing operating costs. A waste-gated turbocharger provides excellent performance across the whole r/min range, as well as good response through higher low-end torque.

  A prime example of this continued innovation and progress is the fact that FAW Trucks is on the verge of introducing a new automatic model in the heavy commercial vehicle (HCV) segment of the local market. A new model in the eight-tonne segment will also go on sale here before the end of the year.

  Torque is a healthy 450 Nm between 1 200 and 2 200 r/min, while a solid output of 105 kW is on tap at
  2 600 r/min.

  Along with this tried and trusted engine, the newly launched 8.140FL-AT features a six-speed fully automatic Allison 1000 transmission with a hydraulic torque converter. It also has dual overdrives, with the second overdrive ratio being rather high. This allows for low engine speeds at cruising rpm and, ultimately, enables significantly reduced fuel consumption.

  Allison’s specialty is commercial-grade automatic transmissions for medium and heavy duty applications and the company’s history includes the development of propulsion systems for aircraft and other military applications.

  As far as the braking power of the 8.140FL is concerned, a four-circuit protection valve, full-air brake system ensures easier to maintain than vacuum-hydraulic or air-hydraulic braking systems. The addition of ABS and an air-cut parking brake on a medium-sized truck is invaluable to the safety of the driver, truck and payload.

  The parallel chassis frame and smooth top flange chassis construction have a distinct low-weight advantage, especially when mounting a steel sub-frame cargo body. The locally built chassis passes through a special paint station to enhance its dust and dirt endurance and longevity – a unique South African addition.

  The suspension is of the straight ladder-type with semi-elliptical leaf springs, together with front double acting shock absorbers and rear auxiliary springs.

  The axles, graded for a permissible three tonnes in front and six tonnes at the back, provide ample carrying capacity.

  The 8.140FL-AT will be available from FAW Trucks dealers in a number of body derivatives including a drop-side, a taut-liner option, a van body, a tipper, a roll-back and a dry-freight insulated body. Customers can also choose to purchase the chassis cab and fit their own truck bodies to suit their specific needs.

  It is sold with a two-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and benefits from the full extent of sales and/or service from representative outlets across South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana. FAW Trucks has a dedicated national parts distribution centre in Spartan, supported by its branches in Durban, Harrismith and Cape Town, which act as hubs to support all FAW Trucks representatives and self-service operators.

  Says Mr. Richard H. Leiter, Executive Director of FAW South Africa: “FAW SA is committed to offering vehicles engineered, developed and rigorously tested to meet the harsh operating conditions in Africa. To this end, the FAW 8.140FL-AT represents the strength, reliability, value for money and ease of operations that products from FAW Trucks are renown for. Most importantly, though, is that it too is a truck built for Africa, in South Africa.” 

• • Unique African requirements met through continued research and development
  • New products to strengthen FAW’s position in local markets
  • South African customers reap the benefits of a clear vision for the future

   

  Johannesburg – 25 June 2021 – Ongoing research and development (R&D) are key to the sustained growth and survival of any vehicle brand. The same goes for FAW Trucks which has, over its 27-year history in South Africa, become renowned for its quality products and ability to cater to the unique needs of the South African commercial vehicle market. 

  With the FAW Group Corporation – China’s oldest and largest vehicle manufacturer – as its majority shareholder, the local operation is able to provide South African customers with products that have been researched and developed to excel in even the harshest working environments, without compromising on innovation, technology and comfort.

  FAW Trucks places a high premium on R&D in order to not only maintain its leadership in the Chinese market, but also to ensure that it keeps up with the rapid advances being made in technology. Its R&D facility is based at the FAW Trucks manufacturing facility in Qingdao, China.

  “The R&D centre greatly enhances the brand’s technological research and development capabilities, accelerates development of new products, and strengthens its position in global markets,” says Jianyu Hao, CEO of FAW South Africa. “One such global market is South Africa, where FAW Trucks is consistently ranked amongst the top sales  performers on the sales charts.”

  The brand’s local popularity can, in part, be attributed to the fact that all models sold in South Africa undergo testing to prove that they can withstand the unique – and often harsh – working conditions associated with African markets. In order to ensure that products live up to their reputation of being trucks that are built in South Africa, for Africa, most of the current model range such as the 6.130FL and 8.140FL as well as newer models such as the JH6 28.500FT are Euro 3 compliant.

  Adding further peace of mind for buyers in South Africa and in other countries on the subcontinent, FAW Trucks offer warranties of up to three-years/600 000 km.

  “In the highly competitive South African commercial vehicle market, durability and quality are key factors,” explains Hao. “Customers expect their trucks to withstand a rough operational environment, but also expect the vehicles to be fuel efficient, lightweight and technologically advanced. They also want a wider choice. Thanks to the R&D facility in China, we are able to bring to market robust, high-quality vehicles.”

  A prime example of this continued innovation and progress is the fact that FAW Trucks is on the verge of introducing a new automatic model in the heavy commercial vehicle (HCV) segment of the local market. A new model in the eight-tonne segment will also go on sale here before the end of the year.

  “These new models will carry all the hallmarks that FAW products are renowned for, namely strength, reliability and ease of operation,” Hao explains. “They will also bolster our sales performance even further as we head into the second half of the year.”

  FAW Trucks achieved a significant milestone in its local history by taking the top spot in the Heavy Commercial Vehicle (HCV) segment of the local market for the first time in the first quarter of this year. It has performed consistently well in the segment ever since.

  “As China’s leading producer commercial vehicles, FAW Group has earned a reputation for leading that country’s automotive industry with the latest innovations. The company continues to steer its own course rather than simply imitating others. Thanks to the work done at the Quingdao R&D facility, FAW Trucks is able to lay a clear path for the future. It goes without saying that FAW Trucks here in South Africa will also reap the benefits,” Hao concludes.

• • Partnership with respected dealership continues to bear fruit
  • Namibian market showing green shoots after negative impact of COVID-19 pandemic
  • Providing reliable products backed up by solid aftersales service remains key

   

  Johannesburg – 11 June 2021 – For the past 27 years, FAW Trucks has been cultivating a solid reputation for providing products that are built in South Africa, for Africa. Successfully serving markets across the continent from its hub in Coega, Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) for a number of years, the commercial vehicle  manufacturer has relaunched the brand in Namibia, aiming to reaffirm its unwavering commitment to customers in that country.

  FAW Trucks found a reliable home with Africa Commercial Vehicles (ACV), a leading force in the Namibian commercial vehicle market, in 2018. As one of the country’s most reputable dealers, ACV has been providing consistently high levels of customer service and aftersales support from its premises in Windhoek, and as a result the FAW Trucks brand has flourished.

  ACV was first established in 1996 and has, since then, grown into a well-respected entity. It has always been at the leading edge of doing business and in 2014 became the first vehicle dealership in Namibia to adopt a cloud-based data management system. Since becoming the authorised FAW Trucks dealership, the business has expanded to such an extent that it had to move to larger premises.

  Apart from handling sales, ACV’s 1 850 m² facility, located next to the B1 national highway, houses a workshop consisting of 18 work bays, four electric lifts and two 16-metre work pits. There is also a large storeroom that carries the full spectrum of spares and parts required to service and maintain all FAW Trucks models. Looking after customers that are further afield, ACV also has a service and parts facility in Walvis Bay and more than ten authorised FAW Trucks repairers across Namibia.

  “ACV is a great fit for FAW Trucks as the two entities subscribe to the same values of honesty, quality, commitment and forging long-lasting relationships,” comments Jianyu Hao, CEO of FAW South Africa.

  Jakkie Coetzee, dealer principal at ACV concurs. “We too are committed to truck sales and service of the highest quality. Our mission, vision and values form the heart of our organisation and we proudly display these on everything from service labels to business cards. We do business ethically and I believe this is one of the reasons why FAW Trucks continues to gain momentum in the Namibian market.”

  Coetzee, who has been with ACV since 2010, has complete trust in the FAW Trucks brand. “With a host of different engine capacities, payload allowances and body options on offer, Namibian businesses big and small can rely on our products to get the job done.”

  As is the case with vehicle markets around the globe, Namibia has been severely impacted by the negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the market is showing some green shoots and Coetzee believes it will take a significant turn for the better in the months to come. His confidence is further bolstered by the fact that ACV recently received an order for five 8.140 FAW Truck units from a new  customer to the brand. These units will be sourced from the assembly plant in Coega.

  The 8.140 (5-tonne) competes in the HCV segment of the local market and has a body and payload allowance of 6 tonnes. Providing seating for a driver and two passengers, it features a spacious and ergonomically designed cab, while air-conditioning and a radio with MP3 and USB functionality are standard. It is fitted with a Euro 3 Cummins ISF 3,8-litre engine, a ZF six-speed manual transmission and a full air dual circuit WABCO braking system with ABS.

  “FAW Trucks has such a solid reputation for strength, reliability, ease of operation and value for money that the units virtually sell themselves. Our job is to ensure that we continue to provide customers with dedicated service and support of the highest quality. Buyers need to know that we are here for the long haul and that we will honour all warranties, service plans and aftersales requirements. FAW Trucks are built to last and we, as a dealership, need to instil that same confidence,” says ACV sales manager, Christian Koch.

  “FAW Trucks is, and will always be, committed to Africa and its people. We strongly believe that with established and respected partners such as ACV, FAW Trucks will benefit from the growing demand for commercial vehicles on the continent,” Hao concludes.