FAW Trucks Southern Africa is not only the market leader in sales but is also fast becoming the leader in aftersales, fuel efficiency, and overall comfort. Crusader Logistics is reaping the rewards of their FAW JH6 trucks as well as the new FAW J7.

Crusader Logistics was founded by Stuart Roos and Brett Harris 24 years ago. While their main focus initially was transport, they briefly shifted to warehousing before returning to transport.

The company primarily serves the FMCG market, with all its warehouses and trucks being food-grade accredited. Crusader Logistics also handles the transport of chemicals and other commodities. Although the main hubs are in Durban, Johannesburg and Cape Town, they operate across South Africa.

Crusader Logistics’ partnership with FAW SA began through word of mouth. Wessel Swanepoel, National Transport Executive at Crusader Logistics, explains that the company replaces its fleet every four years. In 2024, he carefully considered the routes they operate on.

While he and his partners had historically purchased from other brands, FAW SA came onto Wessel’s radar through a friend.

“He is not a very big operator, but a very good operator, and I have been following his stats,” Wessel explains. He then approached FAW SA for a demo truck, and after six months, his mind was made up.

“What I saw in the truck, I could only see a future. At that stage, they were already market leaders in sales, and I like to back winners. That is exactly why I went that route.”

He says that while fuel consumption was a key factor, BB Trucks’ service and after-sales support are the best he has ever experienced.

After purchasing FAW SA trucks, Crusader Logistics tested the FAW JH6’s fuel consumption, and Wessel says no other brand comes close to FAW SA in this regard.

The savings from fuel efficiency, fast service from BB Trucks, and the durability of FAW SA’s trucks have ensured that Crusader Logistics increases uptime, saves money, and keeps operations running smoothly day after day.

“With BB Trucks and FAW, you are not just a number, you are somebody, and I know they respect our business.”

Wessel has been testing the FAW J7 since the beginning of October and reports that its average fuel consumption sits at 2,97 km/ℓ, with the J7.550 performing on par with the JH6.550.

“We did just over 13 000 km with the J7.550 in just over two weeks, and when you look at the savings on fuel consumption, at 2,97 km/ℓ versus competitors, you’ll save about R18 800 per month on fuel alone.”

This is in addition to the feedback Wessel receives from his drivers: “These trucks are amazing; there is no driver fatigue. The drivers are very positive about the truck.”

With more than 38 years of industry experience, Wessel says that based on what he has seen from the J7.550, competitors will need to raise their game.

His only recommendation for FAW is simple: keep up the good work.

Driver’s perspective: Comfort and confidence behind the wheel

For Crusader Logistics driver Lwazi Matshase, the new FAW J7.550 has been a game changer. After just two weeks behind the wheel, he can’t stop praising its comfort, safety, and intelligent design.

“This is the most comfortable truck I’ve ever driven,” says Lwazi with a smile. “It has airbags above the wheels, so when you drive over speed humps, it feels soft and smooth. The seat is adjustable in every way – you can even adjust the lower back support – and it has a heating function for winter. The steering wheel also adjusts to your preference, which makes a big difference on long trips.”

Beyond comfort, Lwazi highlights the advanced safety and driver-assist technology that makes his daily routes easier and more secure.

“When I’m driving, I feel safe in this truck. All the indicator features are clearly displayed on the screen inside the cab, and when I need to park, I can see everything around me. The reverse camera really helps when I’m reversing or maneuvering in tight spaces.”

He is equally impressed with the truck’s braking performance. “The braking system is exceptional. Even with a full 34-ton load, you just slightly touch the brake on a downhill, and the system responds perfectly. This truck is clever – it feels like it understands you and talks back!”

With drivers such as Lwazi at the helm, Crusader Logistics is clearly benefiting from FAW SA’s innovation – where comfort, control, and confidence come standard.

To learn more about FAW’s JH6, the new J7 or their excellent service, visit their website at www.faw.co.za.