Blog

• A 28-year history of serving the agricultural community
• Flourishing display at Nampo 2022 proved a showstopper
• Four-strong line-up of freight carriers remain firm favourites with customers
• Entire model range praised for quality, reliability and affordability

Johannesburg – 20 June 2022 – The agricultural industry is an integral part of FAW Trucks’ marketing strategy and the number of customers from this sector has continued to grow over the brand’s 28-year presence in South Africa. Main selling points continue to be durability and reliability, good build quality and finish, and affordable purchase prices and service and maintenance costs.

“The agricultural industry is an important market for us,” says Yongjun Li, CEO of FAW Trucks SA “We religiously participate in the acclaimed Grain SA’s Nampo Harvest Day in Bothaville in the Free State as it provides us with the ideal opportunity to showcase our model range. At Nampo 2022, we not only promoted our products, but also created awareness for the brand.

For 5 days, FAW Trucks customers interacted with us at Nampo 2022, the biggest agricultural show in the Southern hemisphere. Listening to our customers and understanding their agricultural demands, is what makes us who we are and why we love to contribute to the producers of the agricultural sector. This approach won us numerous new and loyal customers and continues to stand us in good stead.”

FAW Trucks’ line-up of freight carriers – consisting of four models – in particular has found favour with customers within the agricultural realm.

The 6.130FL-MT (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) 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. 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.

“All these derivatives were designed and engineered to be able to cope with the unique challenges of the agricultural segment. To this end, the built-in quality levels from the local assembly plant ensure that the solid chassis and frame provide customers with the positive ownership experience that they have come to expect from the brand,” comments Li.

Of course, other models from the FAW Trucks stable are equally popular with agricultural-oriented buyers. The four available truck tractors and five tipper trucks on offer are also firm favourites. This can largely 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 the segment. They truly are built in South Africa, for Africa.

Customers in the agricultural sector place a high premium on aftersales support. To ensure that maintenance and services will be carried out in a satisfactory and timeous manner, 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.

• FAW Trucks reaches yet another important milestone at local plant
• Production to be ramped up to 200 units per month in 2022
• Scalable plant capacity to keep up with growing demand

Johannesburg – 14 February 2022 – On 9 February 2022 FAW Trucks celebrated another major milestone in its local history as the 8 000^th locally assembled unit rolled out of its Coega manufacturing plant, just short of eight years after the production trial period commenced in May 2014.

The very first unit off the line in 2014 was a 15.180FL, but the 2022 honour befell the newly introduced JH6 28.500FT, the flagship in the current local line-up.

Says Yongjun Li, CEO of FAW Trucks SA: “The assembly of our 8 000^th unit is an understandably proud moment for us, especially as it comes on the back of the introduction of yet another new model derivative.

“Since first entering the South African market 28 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 continuously improving aftersales service.”

FAW Trucks took the top spot in the Heavy Commercial Vehicle (HCV) segment of the local market for the first time in the first quarter of 2021 and continues to maintain its strong sales performance in a highly competitive environment. This success can largely be attributed to a dedicated and strategically located dealer network, a reliable and consistent parts supply, and a continuing expansion of product offerings.

Funded by the China FAW Group Corporation and the China-Africa Development Fund, the Coega facility was built at a cost of R600 million and spans some 30 000m². Under the watchful eye of plant manager, Peng Lei,148 people are employed in the Production, Technical & Quality, Operations & Supply Chain, Finance, and Human Resources Departments.

“With a production capacity of 3 000 units per annum, scalable to 5 000 as demand grows, we produced 1 539 units at the plant in 2021,” says Lei. “This will be ramped up to an average of around 200 units per month in 2022, covering six to seven different models.

“If all goes according to plan, we are confident that we will assemble the 10 000^th unit in December this year,” he explains.

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

“The reason for our continued growth in South Africa is the fact that we cater to virtually every need,” explains Li. “Our line-up includes freight carriers, truck tractors, tippers and mixers, all assembled to exacting standards 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. This means that every unit that leaves the Coega facility truly is ‘Built in South Africa, for Africa’,” Li concludes.

• A strong local history backed up by an impressive global pedigree
• Practical and versatile vehicles that cater to an array of business needs
• Strong dealer network and reliable parts supply ensure top-notch customer service

 

Johannesburg – 31 January 2022 – 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 Trucks way.

As a trusted supplier of reliable commercial vehicles to the South African market, FAW Trucks believes that there are five crucial factors that need to be considered before purchasing a new truck.

History of the brand

With an international pedigree that can be traced back to the early 1950s, FAW is commonly considered to be the Cradle of China’s vehicle industry. Since its inception, it 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 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.

Since first entering the local commercial vehicle market in 1994, 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 assembly plant in Coega, Gqeberha. The first vehicle rolled out of this facility in July 2014 and in April 2021 it reached the significant milestone of 7 000 vehicles assembled.

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. It currently 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.

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

Proven model range

FAW Trucks prides itself on paying attention to what its customers require.

With a 16-strong model line-up that includes freight carriers, truck tractors, as well as tipper trucks and mixer trucks, and a host of different engine capacities and payload allowances on offer, FAW Trucks caters to virtually every need and application.

In fact, the list of companies that have chosen FAW Trucks as their commercial vehicle partner is long and impressive and stretches across various industries including transport and logistics, civil engineering, construction, agriculture, mining, waste management and even skills development and training.

“The current range carries all the hallmarks that FAW products are renowned for, namely strength, reliability and ease of operation,” says Pieter Janse Van Rensburg, General Manager dealer network  of FAW Trucks SA. “Businesses big and small can and continue to rely on our products to get the job done.”

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.

Strong dealer network

With 24 dealerships and service centres located around South Africa, and another seven situated in other Southern African countries, the FAW Trucks is well positioned to tend to the needs of its ever-growing customer base.

The strategic location of FAW Trucks’ dealerships and service centres means that the brand is well represented in larger metropolitan areas and industrial hubs, as well as key cities and towns along major routes.

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

Reliable parts supply

Apart from product reliability, buyers of new commercial vehicles 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. FAW Trucks addresses this vital requirement through its dedicated national parts distribution centre in Spartan. From this facility it supplies the four main regions in Gauteng, Durban, Harrismith and Cape Town.

To ensure that parts for all the models in FAW Trucks’ line-up of 16 models are available, the main hubs carry stock in excess of R75 million. As the model range grows, the parts distribution centre will be expanded in order to facilitate carrying additional lines.

FAW Trucks customers in other Southern African countries can rely on the same level of dedication and service as there are several 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.

Warrantees, customer service and support

“At FAW Trucks 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 Paul Lastrucci, National Aftersales Manager “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.”

All FAW Trucks products are covered by a comprehensive warranty at industry standards, ensuring that customers have complete peace of mind in their purchases. The FAW warranty provides customers with the assurance that FAW Vehicle Manufacturers South Africa stands behind its claim of quality manufacturing.

In addition, FAW Trucks has a dedicated number, 0860 329 772, which is linked to a trigger number at a dedicated and specialised Emergency Call Centre. Resolution of all incidents and queries is attempted telephonically, but – where required – further assistance such as towing is arranged.

FAW Trucks also offers technical training to all customers who prefer to make use of in-house workshops and technicians. This extensive training ensures that vehicles are correctly maintained to provide optimal uptime. In addition, all customers in need of specialised maintenance are assured of assistance from the manufacturer, as and when required.

At a customer’s request, driver training can also be provided.

In conclusion

“FAW Trucks already has a solid reputation in the South African market. Customers can trust in us to continue providing products and services of the highest standard as we have done over the past 27 years,” concludes Lastrucci.

• Commitment to local market rewarded with achievements aplenty in 2021
• New model enhancing local product offering
• New model to be introduced in 2022

Johannesburg – 8 December 2021 – FAW Trucks has become 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, it now has a 16-strong range of commercial vehicles in different body derivatives that cater to virtually every need and application.

The company 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.

Achievements aplenty in 2021

The numerous achievements and accolades the company has celebrated this year is unequivocal proof of FAW Trucks’ commitment to the South African market.

In the first quarter of 2021 the brand took the top spot in the Heavy Commercial Vehicle (HCV) segment of the local market for the first time in a highly competitive environment.

In April a significant milestone was reached when the 7 000th locally assembled vehicle rolled out of the Coega manufacturing plant. The unit in question was a JH6 28.500FT, FAW Trucks’ flagship model in South Africa.

Says Yongjun Li, CEO of FAW Trucks SA.: “This was an understandably proud moment for us and reaffirmed FAW Trucks’ commitment to the local market. It was also just reward for what is 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 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.

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.

FAW Trucks’ most recent achievement was receiving a Silver Award in the 2021 NADA Dealer Satisfaction Index (DSI) survey.

The NADA DSI survey, which marks its silver anniversary this year, is carried out annually to monitor the health of the relationship between dealers and their respective manufacturers. It provides the dealer body with a platform to provide manufacturers and importers with feedback and is seen by dealer councils and manufacturers as an effective management tool to address areas of concern and improve service delivery throughout the entire value chain.

FAW Trucks’ silver award in the latest survey follows on the bronze award it received in 2019. In 2018 it scooped up the award for the Most Improved commercial vehicle brand.

Expansion of the local range

In July FAW Trucks expanded its popular 8.140FL range with the addition of an automatic transmission. This was in response to a strong demand for a value-for-money automatic offering in the medium-weight segment of the commercial vehicle market.

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. 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 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.

The 8.140FL-AT is available from FAW Trucks dealers in several 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.

“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,” says Li.

On the cards for 2022

The big news for 2022 will be the further expansion of the FAW Trucks product offering with the introduction of the JK6 15.220FL 8-tonne 4×2 freight carrier.

The newcomer will be powered by a six-cylinder in-line, turbocharged engine with a capacity of 6 060 cc. This Euro II-compliant unit will deliver 165 kW at 2 500 r/min, with 770 Nm of peak torque on tap at 1 500 r/min.

Additional specifications will include an eight-speed manual synchromesh transmission, a hydraulic-air assisted clutch and full air dual-circuit brakes with ABS.

In conclusion

With 22 dealerships and sales and service centres located around South Africa, and another seven situated in other Southern African countries, FAW Trucks is well positioned to capitalise on the increased sales momentum it is experiencing.

“The reason for our continued growth and success in South Africa is that we cater for virtually every need,” concludes Li. “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.”

• FAW Trucks is the brand of choice for numerous businesses in various sectors of the local economy
• A 16-strong model line-up ensures that FAW Trucks caters to a variety of business needs
• Customers rely on FAW Trucks’ commitment to supplying quality products, backed up by reliable service and support

 

Johannesburg – 25 November 2021 – The South African heavy commercial vehicle market is a tough and highly competitive one, and discerning buyers in this sector are basing their purchase decisions on product reputation, affordability, reliability, durability, aftersales service and low overall cost of ownership. Products from FAW Trucks tick all these boxes and as a result it has become the brand of choice for many successful businesses.

Says Yongjun Li, CEO of FAW Trucks 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 thus far is proof that we are doing something right as more and more buyers are opting for our trucks.”

One of the main reasons for FAW Trucks’ continued growth in South Africa is the fact that it caters for virtually every need. With a 16-strong model line-up that includes freight carriers, truck tractors, as well as tipper trucks and mixer trucks, and a host of different engine capacities and payload allowances on offer, businesses big and small can rely on FAW Trucks to get the job done.

The list of companies that have chosen FAW Trucks as their commercial vehicle partner is long and impressive and stretches across various industries including transport and logistics, civil engineering, construction, agriculture, mining, waste management and even skills development and training.

Magnum Sand & Stone

Established in June 1996, Magnum Sand & Stone’s core objectives are to successfully supply a quality range of building and civil materials at competitive prices. The company is considered to be one of the largest distributors of building and civil materials and continues to expand its operations.

“We expect the same ambition, service and dedication from our business partners and FAW Trucks has consistently proven that it is up to the challenge,” says Riaan Schoombie. “Not only are the trucks reliable, durable and cost-efficient, but the aftersales service is also of the highest standard. Our industry is an unforgiving one and sub-standard products and service just won’t do. Magnum Sand & Stone has come to rely on our trucks from as integral contributors to the solid reputation we have in this country.”

T-Marc Logistics

Motivated by its motto for excellence, efficiency and seamlessness within the logistics and warehousing fraternity, T-Mark Logistics is part of a group of companies with a vast national reach. It endeavours to provide its customers with safety and efficiency and therefore places a high premium on the maintenance and servicing of its fleet of trucks.

“We are committed to knowing more, sourcing experts and benchmarking against international trends, which in turn helps us to offer our customers realistic logistics solutions,” says Lesang Mpakoba. “In turn FAW provides us with trucks that are versatile, practical and well suited to our business. The synergy between the two companies is obvious and it is a mutually beneficial working relationship we intend to maintain well into the future.”

Chippa Training Academy

Chippa Training Academy (CTA) prides itself on providing services and programmes that not only benefit its clients, but also the community. It focuses on finding innovative ways of empowering people through skills development and ensuring those skills are utilised effectively to boost the economic standing of the South African community at large. The company is wholly black owned and biased towards a qualitative output.

“We chose FAW Trucks because of the ease of operation of its products and because all the models have been tested for local operating conditions. In addition, the affordable purchase price and the cost-effectiveness of service and maintenance mean that we get real value for money, without sacrificing quality,” explains Simon Mpengesi.

M-Civils

Having realised the opportunities offered by government’s Reconstruction and Development Programme, M-Civils undertook its first contract within the infrastructure development sector in 1997. After completing several contractors as a sub-contractor, the company has since grown and expanded to become a formidable force within the sector. Embracing the need for black empowerment, it has a strong focus on the training and empowerment of previously disadvantaged groups.

“M-Civils is fiercely protective of its solid reputation and can’t afford to be let down by its equipment. FAW Trucks has more than 25 years’ experience in South Africa and therefore appreciates the importance of reliability and trustworthiness when it comes to providing products and services. Its track record in this country speaks for itself and we had no qualms about incorporating products from FAW Trucks in our fleet of hardworking trucks,” says Petrus van Blerk.

Sungu Sungu

Based in Bedfordview, Sungu Sungu is a waste management company that has a sizeable fleet of over 80 trucks that travel well over 200 kilometres a day fulfilling waste transportation duties.

“Our fleet must deliver on reliability, durability and fuel efficiency, while also offering ease of service and maintenance,” says Thabang Khomo. “We expect our trucks to work as hard as our drivers do and FAW Trucks delivers this and so much more. The products can’t be faulted, and we continue to be impressed by the high level of customer service we receive. Thanks to reliable and efficient aftersales service, downtime is also kept to a minimum, which is obviously good for business.”

Luxor Paints

Luxor paints is the largest independently owned manufacturer of automotive and industrial paints in the country. It has been supplying retail distributors and end users throughout Southern Africa since 1970 and has built endearing relationships with many of its customers as it continually refines its product offering to ensure that it meets even the most stringent requirements.

“We recognised this same dedication in FAW Trucks as it, too, places a high premium on building lasting relationships with its customers. Luxor has distribution centres in Johannesburg, Polokwane, Durban, Cape Town, Bloemfontein and Port Elizabeth and I can happily report that the FAW trucks in our fleet continue to impress through their practicality, versatility and ease of operation.”

There is a common thread that binds all these businesses together. In a challenging economic environment where companies seek to expand their operations and capitalise on all available opportunities, they have recognised the importance of having a heavy commercial vehicle fleet that is easy to operate, uncomplicated to maintain and service, and delivers impressive fuel consumption figures.

By choosing FAW Trucks these businesses also benefit from support from 22 dealerships and sales and service centres located around South Africa, with another seven situated in other Southern African countries. In addition, the dedicated parts distribution centre in Spartan ensures that service and maintenance parts are readily available, thus keeping downtime to a minimum.

“When trucks leave the showroom floor after a sale, clients can expect a long-term relationship with the brand and it is heartening to see so many of our loyal customers continuing to put their trust in trucks that are built in South Africa, for Africa,” concludes Li.

• Dedication and commitment have ensured increased sales across the province
• Proven track record bolsters confidence in the brand
• Great products and high levels of customer service remain the recipe for success

 

Johannesburg – 11 November 2021 – Apart from ensuring that sales keep ticking over, FAW Trucks’ 22 dealerships across South Africa play a significant part in ensuring that the brand’s stellar reputation for providing reliable, durable and cost-effective products to South African customers in the commercial vehicle market remains intact. These committed sales and service centres are also tasked with providing service and support of the highest quality.

In KwaZulu-Natal this responsibility falls on three vital links in the FAW Trucks dealership footprint , with customers able to turn to centres in either Pinetown, Port Shepstone or Richards Bay with their sales or servicing needs.

The Pinetown FAW branch is strategically situated along the N3 route to Johannesburg. It was established in 2010 and dealer principal, Mike Williams, has been at the helm of the impressive facility since 2013.

“FAW Trucks has achieved great success in South Africa since 1994 and I am convinced that sales figures will continue to climb as the brand gains even further traction on the local market. As one of the dedicated representatives in the province we are committed to doing our part in ensuring continued success,” says Williams.

On the South Coast, the brand is proudly represented by FAW Port Shepstone, which falls under the umbrella of Thompson Motors. This family business has a proud heritage stretching back to the 1950s and with Richard Thompson overseeing the commercial vehicle side of the business, FAW Trucks has gained a strong and loyal customer base in the region.

“Much like our business, FAW Trucks has a long history in South Africa and as one of three dealerships in the province we take the responsibility of upholding its reputation for strength, reliability, ease of operation and value for money very seriously. As a result, we are constantly pushing ourselves to do better, ensuring that we provide customers with dedicated service and support of the highest quality,” says Thompson.

“I am proud to say that we have proven to our customers that they can rely on us to support them in every step of their ownership experience, from the purchase phase and all through the lifetime of their trucks. And when the time comes to replace vehicles or expand their fleets, they confidently return to FAW Trucks.”

The last of the formidable threesome of FAW Trucks dealerships in KwaZulu-Natal is situated in Richards Bay and forms part of the ETTC group of companies. Established in 1992 and focusing exclusively on the truck market, the group was quick to realise the potential of FAW Trucks.

“A few years ago, we started noticing that customers who would normally buy used trucks from us were showing more interest in new FAW products because of the great value for money they represent. After doing some research we discovered that FAW had a proven track record around the globe and was making great inroads in the local market. It was then that we decided to add the brand to our operations, and we haven’t looked back since,” enthuses Corrie Barnard, director of ETTC.

“In this respect I must commend FAW Trucks on the enormous strides it has made in becoming a preferred commercial vehicle brand in South Africa. It has become a highly successful and dedicated enterprise and one we are extremely excited and proud to represent.”

Williams, Thompson and Barnard agree that a reliable and consistent parts supply goes a long way in ensuring the viability and success of the dealerships. The national parts centre in Spartan has a distribution hub in Durban, which means that trucks can be serviced and maintained easily and efficiently in order to keep downtime to a minimum. In a highly competitive commercial vehicle market such as this, parts supply and distribution can mean the difference between success and failure

“The strategic location of FAW Trucks dealerships and service centres has played a major part in the impressive sales success the brand has enjoyed, particularly since January this year, when we took the top spot in the heavy commercial vehicle segment of the local market for the first time,” says Yongjun Li, CEO of FAW Trucks SA. By establishing dealerships in key areas such as Pinetown, Richards Bay and Port Shepstone, FAW Trucks has placed itself in an ideal position to cater to customers in the agriculture, mining, construction, transport and logistics sectors,” says Yongjun Li, CEO of FAW Trucks SA.

“These three dealerships in KZN continue to impress by going the extra mile to look after their customers. They are not merely driven by sales figures, but also ensure that they provide a high level of aftersales service, and this has been to the benefit of the brand as a whole. It is this kind of commitment and dedication that will see FAW Trucks continue to flourish on the South African market,” Li concludes.

• Steady and reliable parts supply is key to FAW Trucks’ success in local market
• Parts distribution centre in Spartan supplies four main regions within SA as well as customers across the border
• Facilities and systems continuously updated to keep up with demand

 
Johannesburg – 2 November 2021 – FAW Trucks has experienced significant growth and sales success on the South African commercial vehicle scene since the start of 2021, thanks in large part to the unparalleled suitability of its products for local conditions. Building trucks in South Africa, for Africa, the company has an enviable reputation for providing models that are not only durable, but also provide value for money and low total cost of ownership.

Customers want more than reliable and 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. FAW Trucks recognises that this is key to maintaining and strengthening its foothold in a highly competitive market and goes to great lengths to ensure that its dedicated national parts distribution centre in Spartan is able to provide a high level of customer service. From this facility it supplies the four main regions in Gauteng, Durban, Harrismith and Cape Town.

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.

“With 22 dealerships and sales and service centres located around South Africa, and another seven situated in other Southern African countries, the Spartan parts distribution centre plays a pivotal role in the smooth running of not only our business, but also that of our many loyal customers,” says Yongjun Li, CEO of FAW Trucks SA.

In a highly competitive commercial vehicle market such as this, parts supply and distribution can mean the difference between success and failure. The Spartan facility has distinguished itself by proving time and again that it is up to the task and FAW Trucks as a brand has reaped the benefits.

“The 7 000 m² facility is efficiently run ,” says parts manager, Joe Ferreira. “We ship well over 600 lines a day and as such we need to ensure that we operate as efficiently as possible. To this end, supply chain and warehouse operations are continually monitored and adjusted if necessary and over the years our processes have been shaped into the successful system we have now. It’s simple, but it works.”

Orders from dealers and retail customers are received by members of the sales staff, who all receive in-house training to ensure optimal product knowledge. Once the customer has accepted a written quote, the required parts are picked, checked and packed for shipment.

From here the orders are dispatched via a logistics company, either directly to the dealer/customer or to one of the parts hubs, located in Harrismith, Durban or Cape Town. Orders received before the 2 PM cut-off time will be shipped on the same day and delivered before 12 PM the following day.

“Dealers can also collect smaller orders directly from the parts distribution centre to assist clients with urgent parts requests. We have an afterhours line, providing customer support for Vehicle off Road (VOR),”  Ferreira explains. “We also cater for self-servicing clients and regularly ship orders to customers across our borders.”

FAW customers in other Southern African countries can rely on the same level of dedication and service as there are quite several 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.

To ensure that parts for all the models in FAW Trucks’ line-up of 16 models are available, the main hubs carry stock in excess of R75 million. As the model range grows, the parts distribution centre will be expanded in order to facilitate carrying additional lines.

“FAW Trucks already has a solid reputation in the South African market. Apart from ensuring that sales keep ticking over, we must continue to build on this reputation by providing dedicated support of the highest quality. Customers need to be able to trust in the continued and reliable supply of parts in order for us to continue thriving as we have done over the past 27 years,” concludes Li.

• 180 continues to perform well in the highly competitive HCV market
• A highly versatile vehicle that appeals to customers in the agricultural, construction and general transport and logistics sectors
• Product reliability backed up by dependable parts supply and service

•  
•  

Johannesburg – 26 October 2021 – In many respects 2021 has been a milestone year for FAW Trucks SA. Not only has it taken on a dominant role in the heavy commercial vehicle (HCV) market, but it has also introduced a new addition to its line-up and recently received a silver award in the annual NADA Dealer Satisfaction Index survey. One of the key drivers of the brand’s continued success is the 15.180, a vehicle that is well suited to customers in the farming and agriculture sector and has also found favour with small contractors and businesses, as well as fleet operators such as courier companies.“The 15.180 range has proven to be one of the most popular in our line-up, mainly because of its affordability, durability and versatility,” say Yongjun Li, CEO of FAW Trucks SA. “The fact that it is available in freight carrier, truck tractor and tipper derivatives means that it appeals to a broad customer base.”

All iterations of the 15.180 offer a spacious, ergonomically designed cab with a generous body and payload allowance. The engine utilised in the range 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. A full air dual circuit WABCO braking system with ABS, power steering and a 150-litre fuel tank is also standard .

Occupant comfort is a priority in FAW Trucks and therefore additional standard features include air-conditioning and a radio with MP3 and USB capability.

The chassis used on all models is of a riveted straight-ladder type, with the front suspension featuring semi-elliptical leaf springs with double acting shock absorbers. Semi-elliptical leaf springs with auxiliary springs do duty at the rear.

“FAW went to great lengths to ensure that the 15.180 range 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,” Li explains. “Sourced from our assembly plant in Coega, Gqeberha, the 15.180 has shown time and again that it is up to virtually any task.”

Appealing to customers in the agricultural, transport and logistics sectors of the market, the 15.180FL 4×2 freight carrier has a body and payload allowance of 9.8 tonnes. The 15.180FL can be specified in a number of body derivatives that include a drop-side, a taut-liner option, a van body, a roll-back and a dry-freight insulated body. Customers also have the option of purchasing the chassis cab and fitting their own truck bodies to suit their specific needs. Although its specifications are virtually identical, the 15.180FT 4×2 truck tractor variant has a gross combination mass (GCM) of 24 000 kilograms.

There is also a tipper version – the 15.180FD (6 cube) – which is similarly specced to the 15.180FL and the 15.180FT, and is very popular in the construction sector due to its body and payload allowance of 10.3 tonnes.

KEY DIMENSIONS
	15.180FL	15.180FD / 15.180FT
Wheelbase	5 340 mm	3 510 mm
Overall length	9 252 mm	5 822 mm
Cab length	2 052 mm	2 052 mm
Overall width	2 445 mm	2 468 mm
Overall height	2 670 mm	2 670 mm
Front overhang	1 312 mm	1 312 mm
Rear overhang	2 600 mm	1 000 mm
Cab to rear axle	4 600 mm	2 770 mm
Recommended body length	7 100 mm	3 528 mm
Cab to end of chassis	7 342 mm	3 770 mm
Minimum turning radius	7 365 mm	7 100 mm
Minimum turning diameter	14 730 mm	14 200 mm
Ground clearance	250 mm	250 mm
Track	1 795 mm front / 1 860 rear	1 795 mm front / 1 860 rear
Chassis outer width	865 mm	865 mm
Chassis inner width	680 mm	680 mm

All three derivatives were 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 provide customers with the positive ownership experience that they have come to expect from the brand, whether it be in the construction or general transport and logistics environment.

Product reliability and versatility is one thing, but 15.180 owners 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. Adding additional peace of mind is a two-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and the option of a three-year/180 000 km service plan.

“The overall lifetime cost of all of the models available from FAW Trucks is crucial to the good reputation of the brand in South Africa. When one takes into account the relatively low initial capital outlay of purchasing a 15.180, together with the build quality and the extensively proven reduction in downtime it has become known for, it provides owners with unparalleled value,” Li concludes.