FOTON Rolls Out First Locally Produced CKD Pickup in South Africa

On September 30, Foton rolled out its first pickup CKD (Completely Knocked Down) model at its South Africa factory. This marks the first locally produced CKD pickup by a Chinese brand in South Africa, representing a significant step forward for Foton’s local manufacturing capabilities and its strategy in Africa and global markets. The rollout is also a key milestone in the company’s “Lighthouse Plan” for Africa and highlights growing collaboration between China and South Africa in the automotive sector.

Building a Local Manufacturing Hub in Africa

Since launching its Africa strategy, Foton has focused on developing a complete local industry chain under the “Lighthouse Plan.” Its factory in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, is FOTON’s first overseas vehicle manufacturing base. Covering 540,000 square meters with a total investment of $226 million, it is the largest automotive project in South Africa in nearly 40 years. The factory now produces light trucks, heavy trucks, and pickups.

The rollout of the pickup indicates that the factory is close to completing a full production system covering all vehicle types, laying a solid foundation to better serve the African market. The facility will also leverage local R&D, marketing, training, and spare parts distribution to strengthen Africa’s supply chain and shift from “product export” to “industry empowerment.”

Driving Local Growth and Shared Benefits

Foton operates under the principle of “growing together with Africa.” By advancing local manufacturing, services, financial solutions, and integrating new energy technologies, the company has created over 1,000 jobs in South Africa and stimulated local industrial development.

The factory uses a flexible production model, combining truck SKD (Semi Knocked Down) and pickup CKD operations. Working with local partners, Foton optimizes the supply chain to quickly respond to the diverse needs of the African market. The newly launched pickup showcases this integration of local demand and local production.

Foton will continue to advance its “Lighthouse Plan,” using South Africa as a hub to upgrade the African commercial vehicle industry toward higher-end, smarter, and greener solutions. By strengthening local operations and expanding its product lineup, Foton aims to make South Africa a benchmark for commercial vehicles in Africa. The company also seeks to collaborate closely with local partners to create a new era of mutually beneficial growth between China and Africa.

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