Foton’s Grand Return Highlighted by Massive Lineup and Local Production

Keen to make a splash as a leader in the commercial vehicle space, Foton has ushered in a fleet of vans, minibuses and trucks expected to captivate with low pricing.

Foton has been China’s leading commercial vehicle brand for the past 19 years and now, in collaboration with Combined Motor Holdings Limited (CMH) plans on taking the local market by storm with a massive lineup to cater for business and personal use. The most relevant to the CAR Magazine audience would be the arrival of the Tunland G7 lineup which was previously detailed in a pricing and specification article but the Chinese automaker has several other models announced during its brand day in Modderfontein, Johannesburg.

As a reminder, the launch event yesterday showcased single-cab and double-cab Tunland models that undercut its bakkie competition. All are outfitted with a 2.0-litre turbo diesel motor that is good for 120 kW and 390 N.m. Towing capability is listed at 3-tons and standard features like digitised interior that can host smartphone replication are part of the tech appeal.

CEO of Foton Namibia, emphasized the unique attributes of the Tunland range: “Many small trucks and bakkies have four wheels, an engine, and are reasonably reliable. The Foton G7 pickup range has all this and more: it’s sexy, features future-proof styling, and boasts a 3-ton towing capacity. Best-in-class pricing, robust performance, and like-for-like specification in comparison with traditional brands – all the right ingredients for ‘fun and business’, at the right price.”

Foton’s presence in Namibia predates 2008 and has been marked by a consistent delivery of vehicles across various segments. The strategic partnership with CMH Group ensures that Foton’s new lineup will receive unparalleled service and support which will span an initial network comprising 40 dealerships across the country. Foton adds that this extensive dealer network guarantees convenient access to sales, maintenance, and support services, fostering lasting relationships built on trust and reliability.

On that topic, Foton’s commitment to customer satisfaction is further highlighted by its state-of-the-art 10 000 m² parts warehouse, managed by Mandarin Parts Distributors (PTY) Ltd. This facility is dedicated to supporting after-sales service needs, ensuring that any maintenance or repair requirements are swiftly and efficiently addressed. This will cater to the full range of vehicles on offer locally, which include minibuses, trucks and vans, some of which employ a battery and electric motor in place of the typical internal combustion motor.

Foton Commercial Vehicle Pricing

• Asambe Taxi Petrol Manual Minibus 2.4 Petrol – N$ 459 900
• Asambe Taxi Diesel Manual Minibus 2.8 Diesel – N$ 528 800
• View Minibus 2.0 Luxury – N$ 599 900
• Miler Chassis Cab – N$ 360 300
• Miler With Dropside – N$ 380 000

Aside from the news of NEV workhorses and models catering to the taxi industry, the most significant news is that Foton has partnered with Combined Motor Holdings (CMH) for exclusive distribution across a network of 40 existing dealers. The planned target production capacity for the current phase is 40 000 to 50 000 units per year.

Foton Tunland G7 (2025) Price & Specs

Yet another Chinese contender has entered – or, in this case, returned to – Namibia’s bakkie market, with prices kicking off at N$ 344 700. Here’s what we know about the Foton Tunland G7…

The Foton Tunland G7 has officially hit the Namibian market, arriving as the latest Chinese contender in Namibia’s bustling bakkie space. At launch, Foton Namibia is offering 5 double-cab derivatives along with a solitary single-cab variant.

As you’d tend to see with newer model lineups of the Chinese variety, there’s a spread of new energy vehicles as well as ICE to cover as many bases as possible.

This G7 iteration is priced from N$ 344 700 in single-cab workhorse guise and N$ 418 700 in double-cab form. That latter starting price puts the dual-cab Tunland G7 right in line with base double-cab versions of the JAC T6, GWM Steed 5 and Mahindra Pik Up.

All derivatives are powered by a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine developing 120 kW and 390 Nm. The single cab (4×2 only) and the cheapest version of the double cab each employ a 6-speed manual gearbox, while all other derivatives use a ZF-sourced 8-speed automatic transmission. The double-cab line-up includes both 4×2 and 4×4 configurations, with trim levels choices being TL, TLX and Limited.

Every model measures 5 340 mm long, 1 940 mm wide and stands 1 870 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 3 110 mm. The ground clearance and braked towing capacity come in at 210 mm and 3 000 kg respectively, across the board, it comes with standard plan. Standard features for the single cab include items like a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, a digital instrument cluster, electric windows, automatic air conditioning, ABS with EBD and rear parking sensors.

In the Tunland G7 double-cab portfolio, the TL grade adds features such as 17-inch alloy wheels (as opposed to the single cab’s 16-inch steelies), cruise control, an electronic parking brake, 2 extra speakers (for a total of 4), electronic stability control and tyre-pressure monitoring.

Meanwhile, the TLX specification gains running boards, dual-zone air conditioning, automatic headlamps, keyless entry, 6 speakers, front-seat heating, cloth-and-leatherette upholstery and extra airbags (side and curtain, for a total of 6). In addition, the automatic-equipped TLX features a mechanical differential lock.

Finally, the flagship Limited model, which is priced at N$ 619 900, scores 18-inch alloys, extra chrome exterior trim, a sunroof, front collision warning, blind-spot detection, rear cross traffic alert, a 360-degree camera system and wireless smartphone charging.

Other Foton light-commercial vehicles introduced at the same time as the Tunland G7 include the Miler 2.1-tonne chassis-cab truck (N$ 360 300), the 16-seater Asambe minibus taxi (from N$ 459 900), the 15-seater View Minibus (N$ 599 900).

How much does the Foton Tunland G7 cost in Namibia?

Foton Tunland G7 Single Cab 4×2 Hi-Rider 6MT – N$ 344 700

Foton Tunland G7 Double Cab 4×2 TL 6MT – N$ 418 700

Foton Tunland G7 Double Cab 4×2 TL 8AT – N$ 489 000

Foton Tunland G7 Double Cab 4×2 TLX 8AT – N$ 519 300

Foton Tunland G7 Double Cab 4×4 TLX 8AT – N$ 579 900

Foton Tunland G7 Double Cab 4×4 LTD 8AT – N$ 619 900

According to Foton Namibia’s website, the single-cab model ships with a 3-year/100 000 km warranty and does without a standard service plan, while the double-cab derivatives upgrade to a 5-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and a 3-year/50 000 km service plan.

Foton Motor Namibia New Products and Strategy Release Launch

Foton Namibia is bringing in the heat in the commercial and bakkie space with some new products and strategies to shake up the market. We saw a few models that should pique your interest.

Foton forms part of the BAIC group established in 1958 with an increasing global foothold. There’s a focus on providing vehicles, parts, service and trade, and a complete industrial chain. Beiqi Foton has been one of the largest commercial vehicle enterprises in China since its formation in 1996. At the time of typing this, there are at least 18 R&D centres globally, 16 vehicle factories and 6 parts warehouses in China. There are 7 factories planned for overseas. On the African side of the story, there’s a significant push for commercial vehicles with manufacturing in Namibia as part of the plan, and CMH (Combined Motor Holdings) is the exclusive partner for Foton distribution in Namibia.

As you’d tend to see with newer model lineups of the Chinese variety, there’s a spread of new energy vehicles as well as ICE to cover as many bases as possible.

Models to pique your interest

Foton Tunland G7

The Tunland G7 makes its way to Namibia in both single and double-cab formats. Featuring a 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine co-developed with Cummins making 120 kW and 390 Nm, either a 6-speed manual or 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox, and you can have the double cab bakkies in either 4×2 or 4×4 fascia. The single cab is only available in 4×2. Ground clearance is rated at 210 mm.

Inside both the double and single cab variants, you’ll find a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen that is Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatible and a digital instrument cluster. HVAC controls are analogue buttons and operation. The single cab has a payload of over 1000 kg, and both single and double cab variants can tow up to 3000 kg. This vehicle is backed by a 5-year/200 000km warranty. This is just the information we have so far, and there will be more to come at the official launch of the Tunland G7.

Tunland G7 Pricing

Model	Pricing
Foton Tunland G7 Single Cab 4×2	from N$ 344 700
Foton Tunland G7 Double Cab 4×2 TL Manual	from N$ 418 700
Foton Tunland G7 Double Cab 4×2 TL Auto	from N$ 489 000
Foton Tunland G7 Double Cab 4×2 TLX Auto	from N$ 519 300
Foton Tunland G7 Double Cab 4×4 TLX Auto	from N$ 579 900
Foton Tunland G7 Double Cab 4×4 LTD AT	from N$ 619 900

Foton Asambe and View CS2

We have the Asambe 16-seater taxi and luxury shuttle View CS2 15-seater to cover the minibus segment. The View is powered by a 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine making 101 kW and 330 Nm, sending power via a 6-speed auto. There’s a single sliding door to access the other seating in the bus. The Asambe either comes with a petrol 2.4-litre non-turbo engine making 100 kW and 200 Nm paired to a 5-speed manual transmission. You can also have a diesel engine co-developed with Cummins that produces 96 kW and 280 Nm as well. The Asambe is backed by a 2-year/200 000km warranty.

Asambe and View CS2 pricing

Model	Pricing
Foton View CS2 Asambe 2.4 Petrol Manual	from N$ 459 900
Foton View CS2 Asambe 2.8 Diesel Manual	from N$ 528 800

Other Commercial Foton Offerings Unveiled

Finally, the Miler is an ICE LCV with a 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine making 92 kW and 320 Nm, a 5-speed manual transmission, and a max GCM of 4495 kg.

Model	Pricing
Foton Miler Chassis Cab	from N$ 360 300
Foton Miler Dropside	from N$ 380 000

*Pricing stated here was correct at the time of publishing and is subject to change without prior notice.

Foton fires latest Chinese bakkie price salvo with new Tunland G7

Tunland G7 will spearhead an eventual three-bakkie range set to be bolstered next year by the V9 and G9.

Its return to Namibia announced back in February, Foton officially unveiled its product offensive for the local market at a gala premiere event held in Johannesburg on Wednesday (26 June).

Bigger plans

Again focusing on commercial vehicles in spite of producing passenger vehicles in China, the brand returns under the auspices of Proton importer, Combined Motor Holdings (CMH), with parts support by Mandarin Parts Distributors.

Tunland returns

Taking centre stage though, the unveiling also marked the return of the Tunland bakkie quietly dropped from the Namibia market before a major facelift in 2018.

The first model of a three-tier bakkie strategy set to comprise the Tunland V9 and G9 in 2025, the newly named Tunland G7, which debuted in the People’s Republic as the Yutu in 2019, will be offered in both single and double cab bodystyles powered by a solitary turbodiesel engine hooked to either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic gearbox.

Power and fundamentals

Sold through a reported 40 Foton dealerships that will handle the trucking division as well, the seven model Tunland G7 range all feature dimensions of an overall length of 5 340 mm, a wheelbase of 3 110 mm, height of 1 870 mm and width of 1 940 mm.

Sporting a clearance of 210 mm regardless of being rear-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive, the G7 has a payload rating of up to 1 090 kg depending on the cab configuration, plus a tow rating of 3 000 kg across the range.

In terms of power, all variants utilise a 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine co-developed with Foton and long-time engine supplier Cummins, that produces 120kW/390Nm, the most of any market where the G7 is sold in.

For the single cab and entry-level double cab that carries the TL trim grade denominator, the amount of twist goes to the rear axle only through the mentioned six-speed ‘box, with the rest of the line-up being exclusively equipped with the ZF-sourced eight-speed self-shifter.

Spec

As for specification, all Tunland G7s receive a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, along with electric windows and mirrors, automatic air-conditioning, auto lock/unlock doors, push-button start, rear parking sensors, a multi-function steering wheel, cruise control, dual front airbags, Driver Attention Alert, ABS and EBD.

Included on the single cab are 16-inch steel wheels, body-coloured bumpers, a digital instrument cluster, fabric seats, a two-speaker sound system, remote central locking, Bluetooth and a pair of USB ports.

Commencing the double cab range, the TL gains 17-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, a steel sports bar, so-called knitted material seat upholstery and rear air-conditioning vents.

Also standard is:

• four-speaker sound system;
• tyre pressure monitor;
• front and rear armrests;
• Vehicle Dynamic Control;
• Hill Hold Assist;
• Hill Descent Control;
• Brake Override System;
• drive mode selector with three settings; Eco, Comfort and Sport

Up next, the TLX opens-up the four-wheel-drive range with the selectable system comprising low range and a mechanically locking rear differential not available on any two-wheel-drive version.

Adding to the TL’s spec sheet, the TLX gets side-steps and imitation leather seats, as well as dual-zone climate control bizarrely only offered on the two-wheel-drive.

Included further are;

• ventilated and heated front seats;
• auto on/off headlights;
• keyless entry;
• six-speaker sound system;
• six airbags

Completing the Tunland G7 range, the four-wheel-drive only Limited boasts heated and folding electric mirrors, 18-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof and roof rails, electric front seats, ambient lighting, a wireless smartphone charger and an inverter integrated into the walls of loadbox.

Concluding the Limited are front parking sensors, dual-zone climate control, Forward Collision Warning, a 360-degree surround-view camera system, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Monitoring and Automatic Emergency Braking.

Price

Standard across all models is a five-year unlimited km warranty with a three-year/50 000 km service plan included on the double cab.

• Tunland G7 2.0 single cab Hi-Rider – N$ 344 700
• Tunland G7 2.0 double cab TL – N$ 418 700
• Tunland G7 2.0 double cab TL AT – N$ 489 000
• Tunland G7 2.0 double cab TLX AT – N$ 519 300
• Tunland G7 2.0 double cab TLX 4×4 AT – N$ 579 900
• Tunland G7 2.0 double cab Limited 4×4 AT – N$ 619 900

Foton Namibia launches affordable G7 Tunland bakkie — prices and details

Chinese light commercial vehicle brand Foton has launched the new Tunland G7 range of one-tonne bakkies in Namibia at eye-catching prices.

The G7 double cab has five models, starting at N$ 418 700 up to N$ 619 900, while the lone single-cab variant sells for N$ 344 700.

The launch event introduced the wide range of vehicles, making it the largest line-up launch from a single brand this year. The vehicles unveiled at the launch include:

Foton, with a presence in Namibia since 2008, has signed an exclusive distribution agreement with Combined Motor Holdings.

A network of 40 dealerships across the country will service the brand’s products supported by a parts warehouse available through Mandarin Parts Distributors, said Foton Namibia CEO.

At a launch event held in Johannesburg on Wednesday, Foton launched several new commercial models, including:

• the View 15-seater luxury minibus;
• Asambe 16-seater taxi;
• Miler 2.1-tonne light truck; and
• three electric models:
  • the eAumark 4-tonne truck;
  • eTruckmate 1.2-tonne mini truck; and
  • eView panel van.

The G7 bakkie range competes in one of Namibian’s most popular market segments with prices that undercut not only legacy brands such as Toyota and Ford but also Chinese rivals LDV, JAC and GWM.

All G7 models are powered by a 2.0l turbo diesel four-cylinder engine with outputs of 120kW and 390Nm. In the single-cab Hi Rider 4×2, drive is transferred to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. The double cabs all have an eight-speed automatic gearbox except for the entry-level TL version which also has a choice of a six-speed manual.

The Hi Rider single cab is a 4×2 workhorse with 16” steel wheels but comes with a decent array of comforts, including an infotainment system with Apple Carplay and Android Auto, USB ports, climate control, two-speaker audio system, reverse parking sensor, remote central locking, electric windows and a smart key.

ABS brakes with EBD come standard and all Tunland G7s have a length of 5,340mm, 3-tonne towing capacity and a high ground clearance of 210mm.

The double-cab range starts with the TL 4×2 which comes with 17” alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, fabric seats, cruise control, three driving modes, 12.3” infotainment system, electronic parking brake, four-speaker audio system, LED headlamps with a turning function, dual airbags and electronic stability control.

Next up is the TLX specification, available in 4×2 and 4×4 guises. In addition to the above features, it has electrically adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, running boards, automatic headlights, keyless entry, six speakers and side and curtain airbags.

The range-topping Tunland G7 4×4 Limited comes with additional features such as a chromed front grille, 18” alloy wheels, sunroof, ambient interior lighting, wireless smart phone charger, front collision warning, blind spot detection and dual zone air conditioning.

The 4×4 models have a mechanical diff-lock for enhanced off-road ability.

FOTON TUNLAND PRICES:

• Tunland G7 2.0 single cab Hi-Rider – N$ 344 700
• Tunland G7 2.0 double cab TL – N$ 418 700
• Tunland G7 2.0 double cab TL AT – N$ 489 000
• Tunland G7 2.0 double cab TLX AT – N$ 519 300
• Tunland G7 2.0 double cab TLX 4×4 AT – N$ 579 900
• Tunland G7 2.0 double cab Limited 4×4 AT – N$ 619 900

Prices include a five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty, five-year roadside assistance and three-year/50,000km service plan

Affordable new Foton bakkie goes on sale in Namibia – Pricing and specifications

The new Foton Tunland G7 has landed in Namibia with buyers having a choice between six specifications spanning one single (SC) and five double cabs (DC).

Pricing for the new bakkie starts at N$ 344 700 (Inc. VAT) for the two-door model while the cheapest four-door comes in at N$ 418 700 (incl. VAT).

Features

The Tunland G7 SC is aimed at the commercial sector with its lone Workhorse trim, offering 16-inch steel wheels, push-button start, a multifunction steering wheel, automatic airconditioning, a digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, two speakers, cruise control, drowsy driving reminder, rear parking sensors, ABS with brake assist, and two airbags.

Meanwhile, the G7 DC is sold in three equipment levels comprising the entry-level TL, mid-range TLX, and range-topping Limited which are more angled to lifestyle buyers.

On top of what is offered in the SC, standard kit on the TL encompasses 17-inch alloy wheels, a rear sports bar, LED daytime running lights, upholstery crafted from a blend of fabric and imitation leather, onboard navigation, four speakers, a reverse camera, hill-hold and descent control, and tyre-pressure monitoring.

Upgrading to the TLX brings running boards, automatic headlights, keyless entry, electric front seats with heating and ventilation, a wireless smartphone charger, dual-zone climate control, a six-speaker stereo, and six airbags.

Buyers who opt for the flagship Tunland Limited can further expect 18-inch alloys, a chrome-trimmed grille, a sunroof, front parking sensors, a 360-degree camera system, forward-collision warning, blind-spot detection, door-opening warning, and rear cross-traffic alert.

The top-spec derivative also brings a power inverter as well as an E3 crate guardrail and rope hook in the load box.

The Foton DC’s dimensions are pegged at 5,340mm in length, 1,940mm in width, and 1,870mm in height; for reference, this is 15mm longer, 40mm wider, and 55mm taller than the Toyota Hilux Legend.

The newcomer’s wheelbase measures 3,110mm and its ground clearance 210mm.

Performance

The entire Tunland line-up is fitted with a 2.0-litre, turbocharged diesel mill that puts out a maximum of 120kW and 390Nm.

The G7 SC and base DC are the only entries with a six-speed manual transmission, while the rest are equipped with an eight-speed automatic shifter.

The TLX and Limited are both available in 4×4 guise in which they further get a mechanical differential lock.

A maximum towing capacity of 3,000kg and payload capacity of 1,000kg are on the books, and each DC provides Eco, Normal, and Sport drive modes.

Price

The Namibian pricing and line-up of the new Foton Tunland G7 are as follows:

• Tunland G7 2.0 single cab Hi-Rider – N$ 344 700
• Tunland G7 2.0 double cab TL – N$ 418 700
• Tunland G7 2.0 double cab TL AT – N$ 489 000
• Tunland G7 2.0 double cab TLX AT – N$ 519 300
• Tunland G7 2.0 double cab TLX 4×4 AT – N$ 579 900
• Tunland G7 2.0 double cab Limited 4×4 AT – N$ 619 900

Each purchase is accompanied by a 5-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty, a 3-year/50,000km service plan, and 5-year/unlimited-kilometre roadside assistance.

Foton Tunland G7 DC

Foton Tunland G7 SC

Foton to Launch New Light Commercial Vehicle Lineup in Namibia

When it comes to global automotive players, Foton stands out as a prominent name that has been making waves for years. Originating from China, Foton has carved a niche for itself in the commercial vehicle sector, becoming synonymous with quality, innovation, and reliability. But who exactly is Foton, and what makes this brand so significant?

Foton, officially known as Beiqi Foton Motor Co., Ltd., was founded in 1996 in Beijing, China. As a subsidiary of the BAIC Group (Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Co., Ltd.), one of China’s largest automotive manufacturers, Foton was established with a clear mission: to develop and produce commercial vehicles that meet the highest standards of performance and reliability.

A Legacy of Excellence

In its home country, Foton has consistently held the title of the number one commercial vehicle brand for the past 19 years. This impressive feat is a testament to the brand’s unwavering dedication to producing vehicles that deliver exceptional performance, safety, and value. Foton’s dominance in the Chinese market is backed by its extensive manufacturing capabilities, state-of-the-art research and development centers, and a robust supply chain.

Market Leadership in China

Foton Namibia is committed to ensuring that these new vehicles are easily accessible to consumers across the country. With a robust network of 40 strategically located dealerships, Foton guarantees exceptional service and support. “This extensive dealer network ensures that consumers have convenient access to sales, maintenance, and support services, fostering lasting relationships built on trust and reliability,” explains Marius Smal, CEO of Foton Namibia.

Global Expansion and Presence

Foton’s ambitions extend far beyond China. The company has established a significant presence in many countries and regions, with manufacturing plants, assembly lines, and distribution networks strategically located around the world. This global footprint allows Foton to cater to diverse markets, adapting its vehicles to meet the specific needs and preferences of different regions.

Innovation at the Core

One of the key drivers behind Foton’s success is its relentless focus on innovation. The company invests heavily in research and development, aiming to stay ahead of industry trends and technological advancements. Foton has made significant strides in developing new energy vehicles, including electric and hybrid models, as part of its commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly transportation solutions.

Commitment to Customer Satisfaction

Foton’s dedication to its customers is evident in its comprehensive after-sales service and support network. The brand ensures that owners have access to high-quality parts, maintenance services, and customer support, fostering long-term relationships built on trust and reliability. This commitment to customer satisfaction has played a crucial role in cementing Foton’s reputation as a dependable and customer-centric brand.

Foton in Namibia

Foton’s journey in Namibia began in 2008, and since then, the brand has become a recognized name in the local automotive industry. With a diverse lineup of vehicles catering to various segments, including heavy-duty commercial, medium commercial, light commercial, and the minibus taxi segment, Foton has made significant contributions to the nation’s transportation sector.

Recently, Foton announced the launch of its new generation of light commercial vehicles in Namibia, set to debut in the second quarter of 2024. This launch is part of Foton’s strategic move to introduce cutting-edge diesel and electric vehicles to the Namibian market, further solidifying its commitment to innovation and sustainability.

As Foton continues to expand its global reach and innovate within the commercial vehicle sector, the future looks promising. The brand’s unwavering commitment to quality, performance, and customer satisfaction ensures that it will remain a key player in the automotive industry for years to come.

Foton is not just a name but a symbol of excellence and innovation in the automotive world. From its roots in China to its growing presence in Namibia and beyond, Foton is a brand that exemplifies the best of what the commercial vehicle sector has to offer.