South Africa’s automotive market is undergoing a notable transformation, with growing sales and rising interest in newer brands. Among them, Foton has achieved a significant milestone, surpassing 7 000 vehicles sold locally within just two years of re‑entering the market.
The company’s momentum reflects broader shifts in consumer behaviour. Buyers are increasingly evaluating vehicles on performance, specification and aftersales support rather than country of origin. Gregory Snodgrass, National Sales Manager of Foton South Africa, emphasises that credibility is built through ownership experience, not simply competitive pricing.
Foton’s commercial vehicle line‑up has been central to its success. Between January and July 2026, the brand recorded 3 226 sales, nearly doubling its 2025 tally. The Truckmate surged from 97 units last year to 1 426, while the Tunland range contributed 1 454 units, split between double‑cab and single‑cab models. The Above One‑Ton Single Cab category showed the strongest growth, climbing 210.2% year‑on‑year to 2 035 units.
This performance coincides with a buoyant national market. July 2026 new‑vehicle sales rose 11.9% year‑on‑year to 57 708 units, with medium commercial vehicles up 19.4%. For Foton, whose portfolio is heavily weighted towards commercial models, this environment has provided fertile ground.
Snodgrass notes that South African customers are asking sharper questions about long‑term value, including operating costs, parts availability and warranty support. He stresses that sustained success depends on consistent delivery and investment in infrastructure.
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To mark World EV Day, Zero Carbon Charge (CHARGE) has launched the N3 EV Real-World Test. The initiative will turn everyday electric vehicle journeys between Johannesburg and Durban into a growing source of real-world data for South African motorists and fleet operators considering the switch to electric.
Electric and hybrid vehicles are changing more than what South Africans drive. They are changing what happens behind the workshop doors, too.
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