Foton South Africa has strengthened its position in the local heavy commercial vehicle market with the introduction of two Galaxus models, supported by the commencement of Completely Knocked Down (CKD) vehicle production at its manufacturing facility in Gqeberha in 2026.
The developments mark an important step in Foton’s South African journey, combining an expanded heavy truck offering with local assembly capability and a manufacturing base intended to serve both domestic and wider African markets.
Unveiled at the Beijing Automotive Group Co. (BAIC) – Foton Africa Partners Conference, the two Galaxus models broaden the manufacturer’s participation in professional truck transport, while a new plug-in hybrid addition to its Tunland bakkie range signals its parallel interest in electrified mobility.
An expanded heavy truck offering
The introduction of two Galaxus models expands Foton’s ability to serve professional truck operators with different vehicle and operational requirements.
Among the configurations introduced is a 6×4 tractor unit, with drive delivered to both rear axles and a technical gross combination weight rating (GCM) of 55 tons. This represents the combined vehicle and trailer rating, with actual operation subject to applicable South African regulations and approved operating limits.
Power comes from a Yuchai YC6MK400-33 diesel engine paired with a Wanliyang WLY12G180TD transmission. Two fuel tanks provide a combined capacity of 760 litres, supporting the range requirements of long-distance road transport.
The tractor features a 3 300 mm plus 1 400 mm wheelbase and a high-roof cab with spring suspension. Driver convenience and comfort features include air conditioning, electric windows, central locking, radio, USB and MP3 functionality. Braking is provided by a dual-circuit air-brake system, with drum brakes at both the front and rear.
Across the Galaxus portfolio, different chassis and powertrain configurations cater for road transport, construction and specialist vehicle applications. The two-model introduction therefore represents more than an addition to Foton’s product line-up: it broadens the range of commercial operations the manufacturer can target in South Africa.
“Commercial vehicles must be developed around the work customers need them to perform. The Galaxus introduction broadens our offering for operators with different requirements, while reinforcing the importance of vehicle suitability, driver needs and support throughout the vehicle’s working life,” says Wu Zongtian, BAIC FOTON International President.
A Gqeberha-based manufacturing foundation
Foton’s manufacturing operation in Gqeberha is central to its longer-term South African strategy and its ambitions across African markets.
CKD vehicle production commenced at the facility in 2026, establishing local assembly using supplied components and strengthening South Africa’s role within Foton’s international manufacturing and export network.
The operation is significant in that it represents BAIC Group’s first overseas vehicle manufacturing base. With an annual production capacity of approximately 50 000 vehicles (cars, bakkies and trucks), the facility provides considerable scope to increase output as demand develops.
The wider manufacturing project has created more than 3 000 direct and indirect jobs and supported over 150 local small and medium-sized enterprises through packaging and supply-chain activities.
Beyond vehicle assembly, the investment creates opportunities to develop automotive production skills, deepen local supplier participation and build the industrial capacity required to support sustained manufacturing. Further development will focus on expanding production, strengthening supplier partnerships and increasing localisation.
“Gqeberha is an important part of our long-term commitment to South Africa. Developing local manufacturing means building production capability alongside the skills and supplier relationships needed to sustain it. Our focus is on strengthening that foundation as we develop opportunities in South Africa and across African markets,” says Luo Yunjie, VP of BAIC FOTON International.
More electrification to bakkie range
While the Galaxus models address the needs of commercial transport operators, Foton has also introduced the Tunland V9 PHEV, bringing plug-in hybrid technology to its bakkie range.
Unlike the existing Tunland V9 mild-hybrid diesel, the PHEV combines a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with front and rear electric motors, a 32.8 kWh battery and a four-speed dedicated hybrid transmission. Combined output is 350 kW and up to 800 Nm of torque.
The plug-in hybrid configuration allows owners to make greater use of electric power on shorter daily journeys, with the petrol engine providing additional flexibility for longer trips.
The double-cab bakkie also features a 220 V external power supply, a 14.6-inch central touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital instrument display and a suite of driver-assistance technologies.
The Galaxus introduction and the development of CKD production in Gqeberha are important elements of Foton’s expanding South African presence.
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