News / 24 October 2022 / Albert du Toit

Force Motors coming to South Africa – What you need to know

India’s Force Motors has announced its official entry into the South African market with a portfolio of five vehicles incoming.

Force has partnered with ETG Logistics to be its domestic distributor.

The automaker will introduce a comprehensive line-up of vehicles to the local market comprising the Gurkha 4×4, the Kargo King bakkie, as well as the Traveller in midi-bus, panel van, and ambulance configurations.

The Traveller is aimed “mini- and midi-bus taxi operators who are looking for affordable people mover solutions” whereas the Gurkha is for “serious off-roading enthusiasts who require the use of independently controlled differential locks to get out of tricky situations,” said Force Motors.

As its name would suggest, the Kargo King is a single-cab workhorse that is aligned with commercial customers’ needs.

“Homologation of these vehicles for the South African market is currently underway and first vehicles on South African roads can be expected during the first quarter of 2023,” said Prasan Firodia, managing director of Force Motors.

“We believe that we have the right products to cater to different customer segments and with this association look forward to emerging as a strong brand in multiple African markets.”

Gurkha specifications

The Gurkha will be competing in a small segment when it comes to South Africa, the category of mini 4x4s which is currently dominated by the Suzuki Jimny.

In India, the Force off-roader is sold in one trim line powered by a 2.6-litre diesel engine that generates 67kW and 250Nm.

The rugged mini-SUV boasts a 700mm water wading depth, a maximum incline gradeability of 35 degrees, as well as mechanically-locking differentials on the front and rear axles.

Standard equipment then includes a 7-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, full-LED headlamps with daytime running and cornering lamps, rear parking sensors, central locking, a tyre pressure monitoring system, ABS, and dual airbags.

The Gurkha also offers seating for four passengers, and it measures 4,116mm long, 1,812mm wide, and 2,075mm tall with a cargo capacity of 500 litres.