Enter the dynamic realm of commercial transportation with Driven spotlighting Isuzu, Hino, and Volvo Medium- and Heavy Commercials. These industry breadwinners drive South Africa’s economy forward, their innovation and reliability setting new standards. Discover their success stories and future visions, shaping the future of transportation. Stay tuned as we await releases from UD Trucks and Daimler, promising further evolution in this vibrant sector. Join us on this journey where every mile signifies progress and opportunity.
ISUZU TRUCKS
Isuzu Trucks proudly holds the mantle as the number one brand in South Africa’s cab-over-chassis medium and heavy commercial vehicle (MCV and HCV) segments, marking an impressive 11-year reign. Despite facing market challenges, Isuzu Trucks continues to assert its dominance, emphasising its unwavering commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction.
In the medium commercial vehicle (MCV) segment, Isuzu Trucks maintained a robust presence in 2023, although it experienced a slight decline in volume. Nevertheless, the brand’s market share remains formidable, showcasing consistent leadership throughout the year. Similarly, within the heavy commercial vehicle (HCV) segment, Isuzu Trucks demonstrated adaptability and strength, evidenced by a notable increase in market share despite a slight decrease in volume.
Isuzu’s success story extends to its top-selling models, such as the NPR 400 and FTR 850, which effectively cater to diverse market demands. Craig Uren, Senior Vice President at Isuzu Motors South Africa, expressed immense pride in these achievements, reaffirming the brand’s dedication to setting industry standards and driving future innovations.
As Isuzu Trucks embarks on another year, its focus on innovation, sustainability, and customer-centric solutions remains steadfast, reinforcing its position as an undisputed leader in the commercial transportation sector.
Visit www.isuzu.co.za to find out more.
HINO TRUCKS
With 2024 still fresh out of the oven, Hino South Africa has set some targets inspired by their ‘Moving to the next level’ theme. The company has set targets to grow its sales volume by 15% from the 3 300 they experienced in 2023 to 3 800 in 2024. Similarly, Hino intends to increase its market share to 10% of the 34,800 South African truck sales forecast.
Part of this growth will be attributed to the new 700 truck range, a model that has seen first-time buyers approaching Hino for the extra-heavy truck. The truck is expected to double Hino’s extra-heavy sales from 377 sold in 2023 to a projected 750 sales this year. The customers will also benefit from the new Guaranteed Future Value plan (GFV) on the Hino 700 2841 and 2845 truck-tractor models. This GFV offer includes a three-year finance period, a 360,000 km term (120,000 km per year), and end-of-term options to retain or return the truck.
Hino is also motivated by sales numbers and is fully committed to carbon reduction, with the ultimate goal of zero emissions. The company has used various solutions to pursue this goal, from battery-electric to hybrid, hydrogen fuel cells, and hydrogen as a combustible fuel as such, presented in a recent media briefing at their factory and launching November 2024, the Hino 300 Series Hybrid, a 4.0-litre Common-Rail Turbo engine with Euro6 compliance, delivering 110 kW and 470 Nm. Featuring an electric motor coupled to a six-speed auto box, it integrates regenerative braking, advanced stop/start, and advanced safety systems for unparalleled efficiency and safety.
Visit www.hino.co.za to find out more.
VOLVO TRUCKS
Volvo Trucks continues its tradition of innovation with upgrades to the FH range, integrating new technologies and camera monitoring systems for enhanced efficiency, safety, and productivity. These advancements extend across Volvo’s product range, ensuring a superior driving experience regardless of the diesel, gas, or electric powertrain.
Volvo’s relentless engineering efforts underscore its commitment to optimising product performance and meeting evolving customer needs. As businesses demand more from their heavy-duty trucks, Volvo remains at the forefront, driving innovation and setting new benchmarks for the industry.
Visit www.volvotrucks.co.za to find out more.
LAST WORD
We’ve explored three industry breadwinners’ remarkable achievements and ambitious goals. While celebrating their past successes, these brands are steadfast in their commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction. As we anticipate the future of commercial transportation, we look forward to witnessing how these companies continue to shape and redefine the industry landscape.
Report by BRYAN KAYAVHU | Images © ISUZU TRUCKS / HINO / VOLVO TRUCKS
