Foton South Africa recently showcased a range of new models at a “Strategy Release and New Product Launch” ceremony, where the Chinese giant also announced the launch of their “Lighthouse Plan”, which aims to make South Africa a benchmark market by integrating the entire value chain, including local manufacturing, network, service and spare parts. It also unveiled a line-up of new vehicles to take on the Mzansi market.
Foton is making a play for a more significant market share in Mzansi by introducing new ICE and EV vehicles here. The variety of vehicle platforms on offer is meant to cater to the diverse needs of the automotive scene in South Africa.
Among the unveiled ICE vehicles is the newly released Tunland G7 bakkie, which is entering a highly contested sector. Running a 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine co-developed with Cummins, which churns out 120 kW and 390 Nm through a six-speed manual or an eight-speed ZF transmission, the G7 promises good performance and fuel efficiency, and is geared to compete against established Japanese, American, and Chinese competitors.
The big news on this front, however, is that the Tunland G7 is likely to ignite a price war, with its single cab starting at R319,900 (that’s cheaper than a Polo), and its double cab 4×2 manual coming in at a ridiculous R399,000. At the top of the range, the Tunland G7 2.0TD double cab Limited 4×4 retails for a respectable R599,900.
Another notable release was the Miler, Foton’s latest generation lightweight commercial trucks. The truck is designed to be attractive and of high quality and is also meant to be easy to drive thanks to its 5.1-metre turning radius and height of just over two meters.
Motivating the Miler is a 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine which produces 92 kW and 320 Nm. With over two million kilometres of real-life testing at altitudes of up to 5,000 m above sea level and in temperatures as low as -40 degrees (and as high as 45 degrees), the Miler’s reliability will most likely be something consumers would never be concerned about.
The new Foton Asambe, a 16-seater designed for maximum passenger comfort and safety, will also populate the taxi scene. The Asambe is powered by either a 2.4-litre petrol engine producing 100 kW and 200 Nm or a 2.8-litre turbodiesel unit capable of 96 kW and 280 Nm. Ideal for public transport, it offers a spacious interior, advanced safety features, and reliable performance, ensuring a smooth and efficient ride for all passengers.
INTRODUCING THE NEW EV RANGE
In addition to the ICE vehicles above, Foton introduced a range of pure electric products, including the eAUMARK light truck, the eVIEW VAN cargo version, and the eTruck Mate. These vehicles boast EV research and development dating back to 2003, which means Foton has had decades to work on its EV performance and reliability. Now, whilst the EV market is still in its fledgling state, Foton aims to be one of the prominent pioneers in the market in anticipation of the pending market boom. So, while the market plays catch-up to the shifting tide, Foton has already seen it fit to offer vehicles that offer short-distance efficiency and “green” options to companies and individuals who want to reduce their carbon footprint.
NEW LOCAL PARTNERSHIPS
To make these new vehicles accessible to the market, Foton has partnered with Combined Motor Holdings Limited (CMH), the exclusive distributor of the new Foton line-up in Mzansi. This will see 45 dealerships available nationwide, ensuring that Foton has the supply capability to cater to the market’s needs. Of course, it would be remiss of Foton not to provide proper after-sales services, which invariably have a bearing in swaying consumer opinion. To that end, Foton has a 10,000 square metre state-of-the-art parts warehouse managed by Mandarin Parts Distributors (PTY) Ltd to provide consumers with after-sales service requirements.
LAST WORD
We commend Foton for offering diversity to the local market and hope to see them succeed in this venture. What remains to be seen is how receptive the market will be to the new products and whether Foton can mount a successful challenge against brands that have had decades to cement a place at the big table.
FOTON TUNLAND G7 PRICING
Foton Tunland G7 2.0TD single cab Hi Rider R319,900
Foton Tunland G7 2.0TD double cab TL manual R399,900
Foton Tunland G7 2.0TD double cab TL auto R469,900
Foton Tunland G7 2.0TD double cab TLX R499,900
Foton Tunland G7 2.0TD double cab TLX 4×4 R559,900
Foton Tunland G7 2.0TD double cab Limited 4×4 R599,900
Report by BRYAN KAYAVHU | Images © FOTON SOUTH AFRICA
