Once regarded with varying degrees of scepticism among South Africa’s trucking community, Chinese truck OEMs have steadily gained ground in the commercial vehicle sector, the standout example being FAW Trucks Southern Africa, which has grown over three decades to become a market leader with its built-for-purpose trucks – the latest offerings being three versatile, value-driven freight carriers.
The new line-up includes the light-commercial FAW 4.110 FL-MT and two medium-heavy JK6 16.260 variants, one with a manual gearbox and the other with an Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) suited to both urban and regional work.
Assembled at the company’s plant in the Coega Special Economic Zone and built with African operating conditions in mind, the new trucks aim to strengthen FAW’s presence in the commercial transport sector.
“Each model reflects FAW’s continued investment in local assembly, aftersales support and its growing footprint across Southern Africa,” says Jian Yang, CEO of FAW Trucks Southern Africa.
New models for rugged freight duties
FAW’s 2025 trucks are described by Yang as “engineered to meet the operational demands of South African businesses large and small. From last-mile delivery to regional haulage, each model delivers a powerful combination of performance, practicality and driver-centric comfort.”
At the entry level is the FAW 4.110 FL-MT, a 2.5-tonne 4×2 freight carrier with a 2.2-litre 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine that delivers 81 kW and 280 Nm of torque. It offers a gradeability of 35% and a top speed of 100 km/h. The truck features parabolic leaf spring suspension and a two-seater day cab with basic ergonomic considerations for stop-start city driving and light-duty logistics.
For heavier loads, the FAW JK6 16.260 FL-AMT offers an 8-tonne payload on a 4×2 chassis. It is powered by a Euro III/V-compliant turbo diesel engine producing 194 kW and paired with an 8-speed AMT. This variant is aimed at reducing driver fatigue in varied conditions, including dense city traffic and regional routes.
The manual version, the FAW JK6 16.260 FL, shares the same engine but is fitted with an 8-speed synchromesh gearbox. It delivers 1 050 Nm of torque between 1 300 and 1 700 rpm. Features include a forward-tilt cab with air conditioning, electric windows and interior elements designed to support driver comfort and focus.
Built for local operating conditions
With riveted ladder-frame chassis and robust leaf spring suspension, the new FAW units are made to shrug off potholes and gravel. “The fuel-efficient engines reduce operational costs while delivering dependable torque when it’s needed most. From city logistics to rural bulk haulage, the 2025 range is engineered to handle it all,” Yang adds.
Cab designs prioritise function, with suspension seats and simple infotainment systems that help keep drivers comfortable and focused over long shifts. “It’s not just about getting the job done – it’s about staying safe and productive while doing it,” Yang stresses.
The Coega plant continues to contribute to job creation, skills development and enterprise growth in the Eastern Cape. “With the local truck market expected to grow by 1.7% in 2025, FAW Trucks plans to scale up production to 8 000 units by 2028. FAW SA also aims to further expand its dealer presence in Southern Africa,” Yang concludes.
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