FAW Trucks Southern Africa

Author: StephanieR

  • FAW TRUCKS DEALERSHIP IN EASTERN CAPE ALSO A PROUD BRAND AMBASSADOR

    FAW TRUCKS DEALERSHIP IN EASTERN CAPE ALSO A PROUD BRAND AMBASSADOR

    FAW Trucks Eastern Cape celebrates two years as top performer

    • Large facility fulfils sales, service and maintenance needs of commercial vehicle customers
    • Scribante Group aligned with the vision and mission of the FAW Trucks brand

    Johannesburg – 25 May 2021 – In June FAW Trucks Eastern Cape will be celebrating two years as one of the truck brand’s top dealerships in South Africa. The facility has played a significant part in FAW Trucks reaching the top spot in the heavy commercial vehicle (HCV) segment of the local market for the first time earlier in the first quarter of 2020 and continues to provide customers in and around Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) with not only reliable products, but also exceptional aftersales service and support.

    “We subscribe to the FAW Trucks vision of total customer satisfaction, and are committed to providing our customers with durable and affordable commercial vehicles and long-term service plans and support. 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 modern trucks,” explains FAW Trucks Eastern Cape dealer principal, Colin van Eyk.

    The dealership is one of the jewels in the local FAW Trucks  dealer network  and consists of a full-service workshop and parts store, a paint shop, a boiler shop, a fabrication shop, a tyre store, a laboratory, a wash bay and an oil store. As it falls under the umbrella of the Scribante Group, it also houses a readymix batching plant for Scribante Concrete.

    The Scribante name is synonymous with racing in South Africa and as such there is also a motorsport warehouse on the premises.

    With a staff compliment of around 20 people, Statistically, the most popular model is the 15.180FL, offering a spacious and ergonomically designed semi-sleeper cab, and a body and payload allowance of 9.8 tonnes. Standard features include air-conditioning and a radio with MP3 and USB functionality. Its 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.

    Van Eyk contributes the dealership’s success to excellent customer service and aftersales care. “It’s easy to do a good job of selling and servicing a product if that product has a solid reputation for strength, reliability, ease of operation and value for money. Each unit is built for Africa, in South Africa and that makes FAW Trucks a good fit for customers who place a high premium on reliability and affordability,” he explains.

    The Scribante Group is so confident in the commercial vehicle brand it represents, that the Concrete Readymix arm of the organisation owns an extensive fleet of FAW Trucks. In addition, Scuderia Scribante, the family motorsport team, has converted a JH6 28.500FT into a transporter for the two Lamborghini Huracans raced by brothers Aldo and Silvio Scribante in the South African GT3 series. The truck has been wrapped in Scuderia Scribante racing livery.

    The JH6 28.500FT is the largest truck tractor from FAW Trucks. It is a long hauler’s dream, featuring a full floating extended-roof cab with an innovative flat floor design for optimal comfort and a spacious interior. Its 13-litre, six-cylinder common-rail turbocharged and intercooled diesel powerplant produces 370 kW at 1 800 r/min, has 2 300 Nm of peak torque on tap at 1 400 r/min and is commonly referred to as China’s most efficient engine. It is mated to a ZF 12-speed TraXon AMT transmission, with parabolic spring suspension front and rear to address vehicle weight requirements. A full air dual circuit WABCO braking system with ABS enhances the long hauler’s safety features.

    “FAW Trucks is committed to truck sales and service of the highest quality. The Scribante-owned facility in the Eastern Cape has aligned itself with this vision and mission by providing exceptional service to customers. The fact that the Scribante Group itself owns various FAW Trucks proves that it is not merely paying lip service, but believes in all that the brand represents,” comments Jianyu Hao, CEO of FAW South Africa.

    durability and longevity

  • FAW TRUCKS IS BUILDING A BRIGHT FUTURE ON ITS RICH LOCAL HISTORY

    FAW TRUCKS IS BUILDING A BRIGHT FUTURE ON ITS RICH LOCAL HISTORY

    • FAW Trucks has been a player on the local market since 1994
    • Local manufacturing plant became operational in July 2014
    • Local manufacturing plant became operational in July 2014

    Johannesburg – 14 May 2021 – Over the past 27 years, FAW Trucks have grown from humble beginnings to a multi-million rand business with a strong local manufacturing presence, renowned for its quality products and ability to cater to the unique needs of South African commercial vehicle buyers. Continuously strengthening its foothold in the local market and regularly outperforming its major competitors in the sales stakes, it is testament to what can be achieved through determination, commitment and a clear vision for the future.

    That initial vision came from businessman, Richard H Leiter, who – in 1994 – recognised the possibilities 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 South African environment, but would also be affordable and would offer low cost of ownership.

    Thus FAW Vehicle Manufacturers SA (PTY) Ltd was born, with the FAW Group Corporation as majority shareholder. Since then, FAW Trucks has become a household name in South Africa and has firmly entrenched itself in the local commercial vehicle landscape.

    Currently competing in the medium, heavy and extra-heavy commercial vehicle segments with a 15-strong vehicle line-up that caters to virtually every need and application, FAW Trucks celebrated a major milestone in its local history in the first quarter of this year when it took the top spot in the heavy commercial vehicle (HCV) segment of the local market for the first time.

    Says Jianyu Hao, CEO of FAW South Africa: “Since first entering the local market in 1994, we have gone from strength to strength, providing local 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. We have managed to combine this with competitive pricing, low running costs and excellent aftersales service.”

    From the outset, FAW Trucks has shown a clear commitment to South Africa and its people. This is evidenced in the decision, in 2012, to open a local manufacturing plant in Coega, Port Elizabeth. The first vehicle rolled off this assembly line in July 2014.

    The commitment to build the plant in South Africa was significant from a global perspective as – at the time – it was one of the largest investments made by a Chinese entity in this country. Funded by the China FAW Group Corporation and the China-Africa Development Fund, the Coega plant has successfully grown it’s manufacturing operations and built the 7000th vehicle.

    Apart from serving the local market, FAW Trucks also serves as the central hub for local expansion into the rest of Africa. This includes the emerging markets of Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Namibia, Tanzania and Botswana and is further proof of the Chinese parent company’s faith in the local operation.

    Other African countries were considered as location for the manufacturing plant, but there were a number of factors that counted in South Africa’s favour.

    The official opening of the Coega was attended by Mr Qin Huanming, Vice President of the China FAW Group Corporation. “We could have gone to Kenya, or Tanzania where FAW has been present in sales and service for over 30 years, but in the end we chose South Africa because of the infrastructure. As a shining pearl on the African continent, South Africa enjoys sound political, economic and legal systems, as well as excellent infrastructure and abundant labour resources. These favourable conditions have strengthened FAW’s confidence to invest in South Africa,” he commented at the time.

    The plant, built at a cost of R600 million, spans some 30 000m² and includes a state-of-the-art training facility, a body shop and a paint shop. As a responsible corporate citizen, it provides much-needed employment to many members of the local community.

    “FAW Trucks is, and will always be, committed to South Africa and its people. As China grew then, so will Africa grow now, and FAW Trucks is ideally placed to benefit from the demand for vehicles on the continent,” Hao concludes.

  • 7 000th UNIT ASSEMBLED AT FAW TRUCKS’ COEGA PLANT

    7 000th UNIT ASSEMBLED AT FAW TRUCKS’ COEGA PLANT

    • FAW Trucks reaches important milestone at local Eastern Cape assembly plant
    • All models assembled to exacting standards to withstand harsh African conditions
    • Current production capacity is 3 000 units per year

    Johannesburg – 12 May 2021 – FAW Trucks ended the month of April on a high note when the 7 000th locally assembled vehicle rolled out of its Coega manufacturing plant. This marked another significant milestone for the Chinese brand that took 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 and to date maintains this achievement by  outselling various well-known and established brands.

    The unit in question was a JH6 28.500FT model, which has since been delivered to a well-established strategic fleet customer.

    The largest of the truck tractors from FAW Trucks, the JH6 28.500FT features a full floating extended-roof cab with an innovative flat floor design for optimal comfort and interior space. Its 13-litre, six-cylinder common-rail turbocharged and intercooled diesel powerplant produces 370 kW at 1 800 r/min, has 2 300 Nm of peak torque on tap at 1 400 r/min and is commonly referred to as China’s most efficient engine. It is mated to a ZF 12-speed TraXon AMT transmission, with parabolic spring suspension front and rear to address vehicle weight requirements. A full air dual circuit WABCO braking system with ABS enhances the long hauler’s safety features.

    Says Jianyu Hao, CEO of FAW South Africa: “This is an understandably proud moment for us. It reaffirms our commitment to the local market and is just reward for what is one of the largest investments made by a Chinese entity in this country.

    “Since first entering the South African market 27 years ago, we have gone from strength to strength, providing local 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. We have managed to combine this with competitive pricing, low running costs and excellent aftersales service.”

    Funded by the China FAW Group Corporation and the China-Africa Development Fund, the first vehicle rolled off the Coega assembly line in July 2014. The facility was built at a cost of R600 million and spans some
    30 000m². This includes a state-of-the-art training facility, a body shop and a paint shop. As a responsible corporate citizen, it provides employment for 148 staff members.

    All units arrive in South Africa in semi knocked-down form and are then assembled at Coega.

    Currently the Coega facility has a production capacity of 3 000 units per annum, but this is scalable to 5 000 in order to be able to meet growing demand for FAW Trucks models.

    “The reason for our continued growth in South Africa is the fact that we cater to virtually every need within the highly competitive commercial vehicle market,” explains Hao. In addition, all models are assembled to exacting standards in order to be able to withstand the harsh conditions of the African continent.

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

  • HOME-GROWN FAW TRUCKS CATER TO A HOST OF BUSINESS NEEDS

    HOME-GROWN FAW TRUCKS CATER TO A HOST OF BUSINESS NEEDS

    • FAW Trucks competes in medium, heavy and extra-heavy commercial vehicle segments
    • Full range consisting of 15 freight carrier, truck tractor, tipper and mixer derivatives
    • Excellent products backed up by great after sales care

    Johannesburg – 15 April 2021 – FAW Trucks is fast becoming one of the true success stories of the South African commercial vehicle market. Continuously reaching new sales heights since its first locally produced unit rolled off the assembly line in 2014, the renowned Chinese brand now has a 15-strong range of commercial vehicles in different body derivatives on that caters to virtually every need and application.

    Competing in the medium, heavy and extra-heavy commercial vehicle segments, FAW Trucks celebrated a major milestone in its local history in January this year when it took the top spot in the heavy commercial vehicle (HCV) segment of the local market for the first time. It repeated this impressive feat in the following month and with total monthly sales over all models currently hovering around the 160-unit mark, it outperforms well-known European and Japanese brands.

    “The reason for our continued growth and success in South Africa is that we cater for virtually every need,” explains Jianyu Hao, CEO of FAW South Africa. “With a host of different engine capacities, payload allowances and body options on offer, businesses big and small can rely on our products to get the job done.”

    Freight carriers

    The FAW Trucks range of freight carriers consists of four models.

    The 6.130FL (3.5-tonne) is the smallest commercial vehicle on offer from FAW Trucks and has a body and payload allowance of 4.7 tonnes. It has the distinction of having the lowest cost-per-tonne running costs on the local market and boasts a Cummins ISF 2.8-litre common-rail diesel engine, a fully synchromeshed WLY six-speed manual transmission and parabolic spring suspension for enhanced stability and comfort. Additional standard features include air-conditioning and a radio with MP3 and USB functionality.

    The 8.140FL (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.

    Featuring a spacious and ergonomically designed semi-sleeper cab, the 15.180FL (8-tonne) has a body and payload allowance of 9.8 tonnes. Standard features include air-conditioning and a radio with MP3 and USB functionality. Its 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.

    With a body and payload allowance of 17 tonnes, the J5N 28.290FL (13.5-tonne) is the largest of the freight carriers. Used mainly for longer hauls, it 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.

    Truck tractors

    FAW Trucks has four truck tractor derivatives on offer.

    The 15.180FT 4×2 is fitted with the same engine, transmission and braking system as the 15.180FL (8-tonne) freight carrier. Specification levels are also the same.

    The J5N 28.380FT 6×4 is similar to the J5N 28.290FL (13.5-tonne) freight carrier in terms of engine capacity, transmission and braking system. It is renowned for achieving excellent fuel consumption figures over harsh South African terrain.

    One step up is the J5N 33.420FT 6×4. This model has a fully synchromeshed 12-speed manual transmission, full floating ergonomically designed cab and reinforced bumper. It features a 11 600 cc, six-cylinder WP12 diesel engine that is turbocharged and intercooled, and with a 600-litre fuel tank, it too boasts impressive fuel consumption figures.

    The largest of the truck tractors from FAW Trucks – the JH6 28.500FT – is a long hauler’s dream, featuring a full floating extended-roof cab with an innovative flat floor design for optimal comfort and a spacious interior. Its 13-litre, six-cylinder common-rail turbocharged and intercooled diesel powerplant produces 370 kW at 1 800 r/min, has 2 300 Nm of peak torque on tap at 1 400 r/min and is commonly referred to as China’s most efficient engine. It is mated to a ZF 12-speed TraXon AMT transmission, with parabolic spring suspension front and rear to address vehicle weight requirements. A full air dual circuit WABCO braking system with ABS enhances the long hauler’s safety features.

    Tipper trucks

    FAW Trucks offers buyers five tipper derivatives to choose from.

    First in the line-up is the 8.140FD (3 cube), offering all the same features as the 8.140FL (5-tonne) freight carrier.

    Then comes the 15.180FD (6 cube), which is similarly specced to the 15.180FL (8-tonne) freight carrier and the 15.180FT 4×2 truck tractor.

    The J5N 28.290FD (10 cube) is better suited to more challenging applications. It resembles the J5N 28.290FL (13.5-tonne) freight carrier and the J5N 28.380FT 6×4 truck tractor in terms of its engine, transmission and braking system. The tipper body is manufactured from 850 high tensile steel, making it the ideal construction partner.

    With its robust full floating hub-reduction tipper, the J5N 33.340FD (15.5 cube) is well suited to mining applications. As is the case with the aforementioned J5N 28.290FD (10 cube), the J5N 28.290FL (13.5-tonne) freight carrier and the J5N 28.380FT 6×4 truck tractor, 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 with a crawler gear designed to provide power and extreme stability for heavy-duty assignments. Again, a full floating semi sleeper cab and a full air dual circuit WABCO braking system with ABS are standard.

    These specifications also apply to the J5N 35.340FD (18 cube), with its full floating ergonomically designed sleeper cab, the only difference being its larger tipper.

    Mixer trucks

    FAW Trucks has only two mixer derivatives on offer.

    Both the J5N 33.340FC (6 cube) and the J5N 35.340FC (8 cube) have 9.726 cc, six-cylinder, in-line Weichai WP10 diesel engines that are turbocharged and intercooled, and linked to nine-speed fully synchromeshed manual transmission. The mixer bodies are manufactured from durable 4/750 GJ material and the water tanks are aluminium alloy.

    For added peace of mind when purchasing any of these 15 derivatives, 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.

    “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, each model delivers on the promise of a ‘truck built in South Africa for Africa’. These are truly home-grown trucks, but with an impressive international pedigree,” concludes Hao.

  • FAW LEADS THE PACK IN HEAVY COMMERCIAL VEHICLE MARKET

    FAW LEADS THE PACK IN HEAVY COMMERCIAL VEHICLE MARKET

    • FAW Trucks dominates sales in Heavy Commercial Vehicle (HCV) sector
    • FAW 8.140FL 5-tonne and 15.180FL 8-tonne trucks drive sales in HCV segment
    • Upgrade to models expected in second quarter of 2021

    Johannesburg – 9 April 2021 – 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 January this year. With 50 unit sales recorded for the first month of 2021, FAW Trucks had a fair lead over second-placed Hino, with 20 sales.

    This already impressive performance was surpassed in February, when FAW Trucks sold a significant 80 HCV units, well ahead of its closest rival, Hino (58) and third-placed Isuzu (52).

    Says Jianyu Hao, CEO of FAW South Africa: “Since first entering the local market in 1994, it has been our mission to provide South African 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. We have managed to combine this with competitive pricing, low running costs and excellent aftersales service. Our remarkable sales success in January and February is proof that we are doing something right as more and more buyers are
    opting for our trucks.”

    FAW’s sales in the HCV segment is driven by two models, the 8.140FL and the 15.180FL. Both are ideally suited to customers in the farming and agriculture sector and have also found favour with small contractors and businesses, as well as fleet operators such as courier companies,

    The 8.140FL freight carrier/tipper was first introduced in South Africa in 2015 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. Fitted with a Euro 3 Cummins ISF 3,8-litre engine, the 8.140FL delivers a healthy 450 Nm of
    torque between 1 200 and 2 200 r/min, while a solid output of 105 kW is on tap at 2 600 r/min. Additional features include a full air dual circuit WABCO braking system with ABS.

    The 15.180FL has a spacious, ergonomically designed semi-sleeper cab with a 9.8-tonne body and payload allowance. Occupant comfort is a priority in FAW Trucks and therefore standard features include air-conditioning and a radio with MP3 and USB capability. The engine is a Euro 2-compliant 6 557 cc, six-cylinder, in-line turbocharged unit that delivers 132 kW at 2 300 r/min and has 650 Nm of peak torque on tap between Like the 8.140FL, it also has a full air dual circuit WABCO braking system with ABS.

    In keeping with market trends and in response to customer requirements, FAW Trucks will upgrade and expand its range of vehicles during the course of 2021. To ensure that the product offering remains fresh, while at the same time catering to changing demands within the HCV segment, additional transmission options and a new derivative are on the cards .

    “The current HCV range carries all the hallmarks that FAW products are renowned for, namely strength, reliability, ease of operation, and most importantly, delivering on the promise of a ‘truck built in South Africa, for Africa’,” Hao explains. “The planned upgrades to and expansion of the range will once again set the bar even higher and should bolster our sales performance even further as we head into the second half of the year.

    “As always, all FAW heavy commercial Trucks carry a two-year/unlimited kilometre warranty. With almost 40 local representative outlets across South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Mozambique, backed up by a dedicated national parts distribution facility in Spartan, we remain fully committed to offering our customers excellent aftersales service. Good products and good service are what drive good sales figures,” concludes Hao.

  • There is life beyond the pandemic For the Trucking industry

    There is life beyond the pandemic For the Trucking industry

    It is not unusual for the Trucking industry to feel the brunt of any huge recession in the economy, as it is an industry that hinges on the flow of trade in good economic times. When the tsunami of the COVID-19 pandemic struck, many truckers took to their homes along with fellow South Africans and so many wheels came to a complete standstill.

    There were, of course, the heroes of the pandemic, those Truckers that risked their lives to deliver essential services but obviously these were limited numbers. The ensuing recession hit hard, and it is going to be a while before the Trucking industry fully recovers.

    Some definite changes will take place and we do believe enough positive ones to ensure that there is life beyond the pandemic for the Trucking industry. So, what are some of these changes likely to be?


    More offices will operate virtually and remotely

    The Trucking industry is not just about drivers on the road. It is a massive industry that relies on administration and communications just like any other. When COVID-19 hit many took to their homes and now see many benefits to this. Cost savings of time, petrol and reduced office space in difficult financial times are hard to say ‘’no’’ to.


    Safer driving conditions

    Due to this trend of working more virtually, there is significantly less traffic on the roads which should theoretically improve Driver safety. This is very good news in an industry that suffers from a high rate of damages and lives lost due to accidents. Added to that quicker trips will improve efficiency and lower wear and tear on the vehicles.


    Less Driver turnover

    The trucking industry has historically had a high Driver turnover but due to economic uncertainty and job losses during the pandemic, as well as fewer operators who will have survived the economic downturn, driver loyalty is likely to improve.


    e-commerce will create a retail delivery boom

    As the virtual world has induced more online shopping and e-commerce is booming, this will create opportunities for those delivering retail goods to homes. Although this may be more of a benefit to smaller operators, it will boost new SME trucking entities at a time that they will need it most.


    The digital world will be paramount 

    The more we operate any business from home in a more virtual world, the more we will rely on technology. As one observer put it “Overall, 2021 will be digital. Productivity, efficiency and digital technology deployment with a rationalised profit and cash-flow model are the only solutions for the industry as a whole.”


    Truckers will still buy the best trucks

    One thing that will never change is the quality of the great trucks that we at FAW manufacture and sell, whether they be brand new or premium preowned vehicles. We will continue, post-pandemic, offering a great service and after-sales services too.

    You need only talk to us and look into our excellent ‘Total quality care’ after sales, parts and servicing initiatives to know that we are absolutely convinced there is not only life beyond the pandemic for the Trucking industry but a very bright future!

    Be safe and be careful out there.

  • Seven ‘A’s to keep accidents away and always arrive alive!

    Seven ‘A’s to keep accidents away and always arrive alive!

    As we embark on a well-earned Easter holiday break in early April, all Truckers will probably be approaching this time with caution and some trepidation. There has long been a standing war between Truckers and motorists and many an accident has been caused because of driver’s on both sides either not obeying the rules of the road, or more likely, through sheer impatience.

    The road fatality statistics around this time of year are always so shocking that we thought it appropriate to review a few of the vitally important aspects of what Truckers and motorists can do to try to save lives and arrive alive themselves.

    Here then are seven ‘A’s to keep accidents away and always arrive alive!

     

    Awareness and Anticipation

    In some ways, the safest way to drive is to imagine that every other driver on the road is incapable and likely to do something wrong any minute. Always be aware of what is happening around you, anticipating what could happen next.

     

    Awake and Alert

    Being fully awake at all times is essential. If for one moment you feel drowsy it is vital that you pull over and rest. Even if this means arriving late, it could save another life or your own. It goes without saying that drunk driving is out of the question, as this compromises your ability to remain alert at all times and to anticipate a problem.

     

    Away and at ease

    Keeping a good distance away from all other vehicles is an essential part of safety on the roads. It is not rocket science to figure out that several moving objects need space behind and in front of them to ensure safety if any of them need to stop suddenly! The solution to this is in one word – ‘patience.’ Remain at ease at all times on the road. Motorists are particularly guilty of sitting right in the tail of trucks and then overtaking at the wrong time simply due to impatience…

     

    An Arrive Alive Attitude

    Following on from that is this last and most important rule of the road. Always have an ‘arrive alive’ attitude. Exercise patience, be courteous, assist each other on the road and be determined to arrive whatever time that may be. The only thing that matters is that you are alive when you get there. Remember that lives are precious. Not only your own but your passengers and any other road user.

     

    FAW cares

    FAW South Africa has for many years been supporting the Trucking industry through the supply of great new and premium pre-owned vehicles, and their Drivers and staff through Driver training and technical training programs.

    We truly do care about the people in this industry and want to see all our Drivers arrive alive this Easter and throughout the year. Talk to us about any ways we can assist you – and be careful out there!

  • Truckers should spread the love – not the virus!

    Truckers should spread the love – not the virus!

    It is a sad but unavoidable fact that many young lovers will be very disappointed in this month of love – especially on Valentine’s Day. They cannot carry out all the usual rituals of inviting someone they have admired from afar to a romantic spot, share a bottle of bubbly and a great meal and get to know them for the first time.

    The pandemic has obviously made this a difficult and possibly dangerous practice so even many lovers who popped the question a long time ago will be celebrating their love in the comparative safety of their own homes.

    The question therefore is, as a Trucker or anyone in the trucking industry for that matter, how can we spread the love – without spreading the virus?

    Many truckers out on the road and particularly those who are single and spend quite a bit of time doing overnight stops may well be tempted to find a new suitor, but we need to accept that right now it is just not wise to try to do so.

    We simply don’t know if whoever we meet up with may be infected with the COVID-19 virus and so, just as we have always needed to take precautions against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) we now have to be even more cognisant of contracting a virus that could easily be spread to co-workers and family!

    What are the precautions?

    It almost goes without saying and we have spoken about this in previous articles – remaining as isolated as possible at these times is simply the best thing for all of us to do to prevent contracting COVID-19 and eventually bring this pandemic to an end.

    For those who have to interact within the course of their jobs – maintain the wearing of masks in any public scenario, sanitise regularly after all contact and of course practice standard social distancing. Obviously get vaccinated as soon as it is available to you too.

    So how do we spread the love?

    There are still ways we can ‘spread the love’ and here are a few ideas…

    To your love ones…

    Those of us who are married or already engaged in a relationship can still celebrate our love, but just think of ways to do so with less public exposure. Cook your partner a great meal and turn your own home into a fancy restaurant- or go to a restaurant by all means, but remember all the precautions and observe the curfew.

    To the young…

    Remember that Valentine’s Day is in honour of St Valentine – the Patron Saint of young people, so this is an especially hard time for young people seeking to find a new partner. Do something nice for them and reassure them that this time will pass.

    To your co-workers…

    Remember that the entire trucking industry has taken strain, so show an act of love to a co-worker – offer to relieve a burden you know they are carrying – maybe take their shift when they are in real need, or simply send small gifts of thanks for what they have done for you.

    To everyone on the road…

    Remember that every time a Truck takes to the road we have a responsibility to represent the Trucking industry in the best possible light. Let’s spread the love on the roads – try being extra polite and showing a smiling face to everyone we meet on the roads.

    A work of love

    For FAW South Africa, who have been building Trucks in South Africa for Africans for over 25 years, the manufacture, sale and after-sales services we provide are all a work of love every day of the year.

    Find a dealership near you to view our excellent range of new and premium pre-owned Freight Carriers, Truck Tractors, Tippers and Mixers – or contact us directly for more on our great warranties and after-sales parts, training and servicing.

    Be safe out there and start in this month of love by spreading the love – not the virus!

  • Why The Trucking Industry Are Heroes of The Pandemic

    Why The Trucking Industry Are Heroes of The Pandemic

    Without any doubt, many industries have suffered during this time of the CORONA–19 pandemic, not the least of all the trucking industry. The fact, however that many industry players and even small businesses have survived and some even thrived through this period is testament to the resilience and determination of the men and women who serve them.

    More than just surviving the pandemic, the trucking industry has had to put up their hands to volunteer to continue their services even at critical times like the start of the first wave and now again with a second wave.

    Risking their lives

    This has often been at risk of their lives. Drivers are not always just isolated in their vehicles, but also interacting with others at pick up and drop off points and on the road at truck stops etc. It means that all the people serving these areas of contact have been heroes of the pandemic because without them essential supplies simply would not have been made available to the medical fraternity or the public.

     Adapt or die

    Like many other businesses all facets of the trucking industry needed to adapt to these new circumstances to survive and deliver. Health and safety protocols were greatly heightened and rapidly put into place. 

    In many cases, shifts had to increase for Drivers and this is in itself a great risk factor. Many Drivers were out there going far above and beyond their normal line of duty whilst being worried about their families and their survival.

    An industry of resilient people

    It takes an industry of highly resilient people to not only serve but even shine regardless of the circumstances they may be facing. It is because of the metal of this industry that when floods have occurred or any form of a natural disaster; when roads are clogged with an overflow of traffic as in public holidays; when the risks on the road of higher volumes of traffic increase immeasurably; when industry rivalry resulted in torching vehicles and now when fighting the forces of a pandemic to keep people alive – these men and women simply endured and continued to serve their country.

    Where to next

    Sadly as we entered 2021 the circumstances being faced by the industry have not changed or improved much. After a short period of respite that allowed us to come up and breathe for a while, we were sucked under the water again by the second wave of this scourge.

    All that we can do is to be more of the same kind of heroes we have been all along. Easier said than done of course, but the trucking industry in South Africa is made of stern stuff. 

    What comes to mind are the words of our former President Mandela, a shining example of resilience, when he said “I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but to triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.”

    All we as an industry can do is fight our fear and get on with it – and that’s exactly why the trucking industry are heroes of the pandemic!

    The truck manufacturers that care

    As a company that has been building, selling and servicing great vehicles for this industry for many years FAW is very proud to be a part of it and will always be there to support all who need us. 

    Contact us if you want to learn more about our new and premium pre-owned vehicles and excellent after-sales warranties, servicing, parts and technical and Driver assistance.

    Be careful – stay safe – and thank you for being the heroes that you are!

  • Trends in the trucking industry going into 2021

    Trends in the trucking industry going into 2021

    Without any question, 2020 will be looked back on as a year full of surprises and challenges – as much for the trucking industry as any other. COVID-19 turned everything on its head and brought challenges many of us had never previously faced. 

    As a result, we saw many heroes emerge in the trucking industry. While many were safely holed up in their homes during the level 5 lockdown, many truckers, like the medical fraternity, were out in the front line delivering emergency supplies at risk to their own wellbeing. 

    The virus and the many other challenges the local industry faced as the year progressed were a stark reminder that the only thing certain is that nothing is certain – and that Truckers and the industry, in general, are resilient and committed to delivering at any cost.

    Now as we hurtle into 2021 we are still facing the COVID scourge, with even a new strain to contend with, but there is light at the end of the tunnel and that’s where we need to keep our eyes fixed.

    Global trends are always of interest to South Africans as we largely take our lead from international counterparts and follow accordingly. Most of these trends are expected to be mirrored in the South African trucking industry too…

    Global trends for 2021

    According to Linchpin, one of the premier US trucking online publications “Industries all over the world are experiencing rapid development owing to the incredible application of technology that is now being experienced. Corporate offices are beginning to employ a number of software programs to help make their operations more efficient and streamlined. Trucks that are being used are now being equipped with far better technology than ever before, and more trucks are beginning to incorporate ‘smart’ technology to improve the functionality of the vehicle.”

    The trucking industry will, as in 2020, experience a lot of upheavals and sadly some losses like a significant drop in the retail industry causing many trucking companies to fold without enough loads to service this market. This is likely to result in a significant number of mergers, with larger companies buying in smaller counterparts for specific services. The upside is that an upturn in the markets is expected to save many companies who may otherwise have had to fold. Let’s hold thumbs for that one! 

    Other trends will include: price fluctuations dependant on market demand; continued growth of e-commerce which relies pretty heavily on hauliers – which can improve things for truckers; Fuel prices as always are likely to rise, but the good thing about this is that there will be more eco-friendly options available to truckers, so sustainability responsibility is something that the trucking industry will need to take into account.

    Local trends  

    That last point is in fact one of the major issues being addressed on a local level as COVID-19 has shown us that with less vehicle on the road our carbon footprint can be significantly reduced. No doubt we will face pretty much the same challenges as we faced in 2020, including industry rivalry for areas where the business is shrinking and of course managing the pandemic responsibly to ensure personnel safety.

    FAW will still lead the way

    One trend that seems to emerge every year is that FAW leads the way when it comes to the best deals on all new and premium pre-owned Freight carriers, Truck Tractors, Tippers and Mixers.

    As always we will offer excellent warranties, service and after-sales services like parts, Driver and technical training, vehicle servicing and more. Contact us directly or visit a dealer near you to become one of the ‘FAWmily’ and align yourself with one of the best trends in the trucking industry going into 2021!