Foton bakkie and commercial range coming to South Africa in June

Chinese brand Foton will bolster South Africa’s competitive double-cab bakkie segment with the launch of the new Foton Tunland G7 later in 2024.

The first-generation Tunland was previously sold here as a budget pickup until it was  discontinued six years ago.

Scheduled for launch on June 25, the one tonner will be part of a Foton commercial vehicle lineup including trucks and vans, with a choice of internal combustion engines and electric power. The model range will include the Miler 3.5T truck, View van, electrically powered eTruckmate double-cab workhorse, eView van and eAumark light truck.

Technical details and pricing of the Foton Tunland G7 have not been revealed for South Africa yet, but overseas the double cab is available with a 2.0l turbodiesel engine with outputs of 120kW and 390Nm. It is a more comfortable and family-focused vehicle than its predecessor, and comes equipped with modern convenience and safety features.

At 5,340mm in length, the G7 will be one of the largest bakkies on local roads and similar in size to the Ford Ranger, the country’s best-selling double cab. It is expected to be available in rear-wheel-drive and 4x4 versions.

Foton, with a presence in the country since 2008, recently signed an exclusive distribution agreement with Combined Motor Holdings.

A network of 40 dealerships across South Africa will service the brand’s products supported by a parts warehouse available through Mandarin Parts Distributors, said Foton SA CEO Marius Smal, adding that Foton had been the top-selling commercial brand in China for the past 19 years.

“Foton’s additions into the South Africa market represents a significant milestone in their expansion strategy,” he said.

“We are looking forward to delivering innovative, reliable and eco-friendly transportation solutions to customers across the region.”