Kanu Commercial Body Construction has opened a new manufacturing factory next to Isuzu Motors South Africa’s facilities in Gqeberha.
The new factory represents a R25-million investment and marks a significant milestone in the company’s growth, expanding its fabrication capabilities to produce commercial vehicles tailored for South Africa and other regional markets.
Kanu is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Isuzu Motors that supports the automaker’s production of specialised vehicle solutions for industries and essential services.
This includes mobile clinics, water tankers, and mobile government service centres designed to improve access to critical resources in remote and underserved communities in South Africa.
Located adjacent to Isuzu’s Vehicle Conversion and Distribution Centre in the Aloes Industrial Complex in Gqeberha, the new factory features upgraded fabrication technologies and infrastructure that will accelerate delivery turnaround times and bring the automaker in line with global body building standards.
It also has two new paint booths, additional gantry systems, new tools and fixtures, and a laser cleaning facility designed for better surface area preparation and reduced environmental impact.
Additionally, the site boasts improved staff facilities with a medical centre, ablutions, and a canteen.
“This investment represents an important milestone for Kanu as we continue building a stronger and more competitive fabrication business capable of supporting customer demand across South Africa and the broader African market,” said Ingo Epler-Brandenburg, CEO of Kanu Commercial Body Construction.
“The new facility enhances our body application capabilities, provides a considerably improved working environment for our employees and improves operational efficiencies.”
“This positions us well for long-term growth while contributing to local economic development and job creation.”
Billy Tom, President of Isuzu Motors South Africa and Chairman of KANU, said that strengthening local manufacturing capabilities remains crucial to building a more resilient automotive industry, deepening localisation, and supporting broader industrial development in South Africa.
“Kanu has been an important part of Isuzu’s business in South Africa for many years, and this investment reflects our confidence in the region’s manufacturing potential and future growth opportunities across Africa,” he said.
In addition to enhancing Kanu’s operational capability, the investment contributes to local economic development by supporting skills development, creating a modern, improved working environment for 150 employees, and strengthening relationships with customers, suppliers, and industry stakeholders.
Isuzu’s growth in South Africa
Isuzu is one of South Africa’s most popular car brands, regularly appearing in the top 10 best-sellers list every month alongside Toyota, VW, Ford, and Hyundai.
Most of its success can be attributed to the D-Max bakkie, one of the best-selling vehicles in the country.
The D-Max is produced at Isuzu’s factory in the Eastern Cape and is available in single, extended, and double cab configurations.
The Japanese automaker recently updated the D-Max for the 2026 Model Year, adding new derivatives and extra features while refining the engine selection.
The range is now comprised of 33 derivatives featuring either a 1.9-litre or 3.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine.
Isuzu has also updated the Mu-X SUV, which is built on the same platform as the D-Max and competes with Adventure SUVs like the Ford Everest and Toyota Fortuner.
The Mu-X is available in six specifications with the same engine selection as the D-Max.
Isuzu also continues to produce the previous-generation D-Max in South Africa as a more affordable alternative for commercial fleet customers.
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