Foton recently rolled out its first pre-production Tunland G7 bakkie at a factory in South Africa.
The vehicle was assembled from a complete knock-down (CKD) kit at Foton’s parent company BAIC’s facility in Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape on 25 September 2025.
This makes Foton the first Chinese carmaker to establish localized CKD operations for commercial vehicles in South Africa.
In a CKD operation, all of the vehicle’s components are shipped to the factory to be assembled into the final product.
While it’s not on the same level as full-scale manufacturing, it’s a noticeable step up from semi-knock-down operations, as CKD requires more advanced assembly lines and skilled personnel.
It also supports additional vehicle customisation, allowing the company to adapt its vehicles for local environments and customer demands.
Foton South Africa CEO Marius Smal stated that the milestone reflects the brand’s confidence that South African can function as a hub for growth and expansion across the continent.
“For customers across Africa, local CKD operations translate into the promise of faster availability, competitive pricing, and increased confidence in after-sales support,” Foton said.
“With parts availability, assembly, and servicing rooted locally, Foton aims to meet customer needs with even greater efficiency — delivering on its promise of being ‘Built for Business’.”
The pre-production CKD launch is part of Foton’s “Lighthouse Plan” for Africa, which aims to turn the continent into a growth hub to aid in its global expansion.
“By choosing South Africa as the base for CKD operations, Foton is making a long-term commitment to localisation, job creation, and technology transfer,” it said.
Foton also plans to expand its model selection for local assembly in South Africa, though details on the exact nameplates are still under wraps.
It also stated that the CKD launch illustrates the growing industrial partnership between China and South Africa.
“Through localised assembly, Foton is contributing to bilateral economic ties, advancing technology sharing, and fostering stronger trade collaboration.”
A rising star
Foton is the fastest-growing bakkie brand in South Africa.
Like many Chinese carmakers, its first attempt to break into our market failed; however, it elected to relaunch in June 2024 after seeing the success rival brands like Chery and GWM have enjoyed.
In just over a year, the Tunland G7 has established itself as a consistent entry in South Africa’s monthly top 10 best-selling bakkies list.
In September, it placed ninth overall with 232 units, putting it ahead of another Chinese bakkie brand, JAC, which sold 195 units.
For perspective, the locally-built Nissan Navara and VW Amarok sold 337 and 382 examples, respectively, so the Tunland’s transition to a local CKD operation will likely help to narrow the gap.
The series currently consists of seven derivatives, with prices starting at R329,900 for the single cab and R399,900 for the double cab.
Every model is fitted with a 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine with 120kW and 390Nm.
It is available in 4×2 and 4×4 configurations with a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
You can load 1,000kg in the rear tray, and tow up to 3,000kg.
Standard equipment on the bakkie includes keyless start, a multifunction steering wheel, automatic climate control, a digital driver display, and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
It also comes with assistance and safety functions like cruise control, hill descent control, electronic stability control, parking sensors, a rearview camera, and tyre pressure monitoring.
Each purchase includes a 5-year/200,000km warranty with roadside assistance and a 3-year/50,000km service plan.
Loading ...
