Plug-in hybrid technology and an expanded heavy commercial offering support Foton’s growth, backed by local production in Gqeberha.

Foton South Africa has launched the Tunland V9 PHEV and introduced two Galaxus heavy commercial models, expanding its offering for bakkie buyers and professional transport operators while showcasing the development of its manufacturing operations in Gqeberha.

The introductions bring together electrified mobility, heavy commercial transport and local production as Foton strengthens its presence in South Africa and develops its role across African markets.

Unveiled during the BAIC Foton Africa Partners Conference, the vehicles demonstrate the breadth of the brand’s development, addressing the needs of customers ranging from families and business owners to commercial fleet operators.

Tunland V9 PHEV: electric driving with long-distance flexibility

The Foton Tunland V9 PHEV introduces plug-in hybrid technology to the Tunland range, combining rechargeable electric driving with the flexibility of a petrol engine.

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. The powertrain delivers a combined output of 350 kW and up to 800 Nm of torque.

An electric driving range of up to 110 km offers the potential to complete many shorter daily journeys using electric power, while a WLTC combined driving range of 1,000 km supports longer-distance travel. WLTC combined fuel consumption is as low as 2.0 L/100 km, while fuel efficiency improves by more than 30% compared with conventional fuel-powered vehicles, even in charge-sustaining mode, when the hybrid system maintains the battery’s charge rather than drawing it down.

For South African motorists, this combination provides a practical route into electrified driving. Regular charging allows owners to make greater use of electric power during their daily routine, while the petrol engine provides flexibility when travelling beyond the battery’s electric range.

This helps address the range anxiety associated with fully electric vehicles, particularly on routes where charging infrastructure is limited. Longer journeys need not depend entirely on access to charging stops.

“South African bakkie owners need a vehicle that can accommodate the working week, family responsibilities and longer journeys. The Tunland V9 PHEV introduces electric driving into that routine while retaining the flexibility of a petrol engine. It gives customers another way to approach electrified mobility without making charging infrastructure the deciding factor in every journey,” says Marius Smal, CEO of Foton South Africa.

The Tunland V9 PHEV combines its electrified powertrain with the versatility of a double-cab bakkie. Measuring 5,617 mm long and 2,090 mm wide, it offers full-size proportions and a spacious load box measuring 1,580 mm long, 1,650 mm wide and 500 mm deep.

A 220 V external power supply extends its usefulness beyond transport, allowing the vehicle to power compatible tools, camping appliances and lighting within the system’s operating limits.

Inside, a 14.6-inch central touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument display provide access to vehicle information and infotainment functions. Wireless smartphone connectivity, wireless charging and dual-zone automatic air conditioning add everyday convenience.

Driver-assistance technology includes adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance and lane-departure warning.

The result is a full-size bakkie that brings plug-in hybrid capability together with the comfort and technology customers use throughout the day.

Galaxus: broadening the heavy commercial offering

The introduction of two Galaxus models expands Foton’s heavy commercial offering and its ability to serve businesses with different transport requirements.

The right-hand-drive 6×4 tractor configuration provides drive to both rear axles and has a technical gross combination weight rating of 55 tonnes. (This rating refers to the combined vehicle and trailer combination, with operation subject to applicable South African requirements 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.

The tractor has a wheelbase of 3,300 mm plus 1,400 mm and a high-roof cab with spring suspension. Air conditioning, electric windows and central locking support everyday driver comfort, alongside radio, USB and MP3 functionality.

Dual-circuit air brakes operate with drum brakes at the front and rear.

Across the Galaxus portfolio, different chassis and powertrain configurations address road transport, construction and specialist vehicle applications. The two-model introduction extends Foton’s participation in a market where matching the vehicle to its intended operation is central to purchasing decisions.

“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.

Gqeberha strengthens the manufacturing foundation

Foton’s manufacturing operation in Gqeberha forms an important part of its long-term development in South Africa and its wider international strategy.

Completely Knocked Down vehicle production commenced in 2026, establishing local assembly from supplied components and strengthening South Africa’s role within Foton’s manufacturing and export network.

As BAIC Group’s first overseas vehicle manufacturing base, the operation provides a foundation for serving domestic demand and developing export supply.

The facility has an annual production capacity of approximately 50,000 vehicles, providing 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 operation creates opportunities to develop automotive production skills and deepen the participation of South African suppliers. 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.

Supporting Foton’s next phase of growth

The Tunland V9 PHEV and the two Galaxus models extend Foton’s offering across distinct areas of the automotive market.

For bakkie buyers, the Tunland V9 PHEV introduces rechargeable electric driving with petrol-powered flexibility. For commercial customers, Galaxus broadens the range of heavy vehicles available to meet professional transport requirements.

Together with the continued development of manufacturing in Gqeberha, these introductions support Foton’s next phase of growth: a broader product portfolio and deeper participation in South Africa’s automotive industry.

If you want to learn more about the new Foton PHEV you can visit their website www.fotonsa.co.za.