As global attention turns to the Group of Twenty Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors, discussing sustainable development and inclusive growth, FOTON Motor’s move in South Africa adds a practical perspective to this grand topic. Recently, FOTON Motor held a grand product launch event in South Africa, officially unveiling the Tunland V series pickups—V7 and V9. Through a deep localization strategy and smart technology, FOTON is further expanding its footprint in the African market, taking tangible steps to support global cooperation and win-win development.
As a key part of FOTON Motor’s “Lighthouse Plan,” the launch of the Tunland V series demonstrates FOTON’s long-term commitment and confidence in the South African and broader African markets. A representative from FOTON South Africa stated at the launch event: “The Tunland V series is the next-generation, high-end, smart, and durable full-size pickup tailor-made for South African users. This milestone not only reflects our recognition of the South African market’s potential but also underscores our determination to grow together with the people of South Africa.”
Hybrid Power, Intelligent Leadership
The Tunland V series is FOTON Motor’s first full-size pickup equipped with a hybrid power system, offering a perfect blend of high performance, low fuel consumption, and intelligent features. Both models are powered by FOTON’s latest 48V turbocharged diesel hybrid system, featuring a 2.0L AUCAN engine and an 8AT ZF transmission. With a maximum output of 120 kW and peak torque of 450 Nm, the Tunland V series achieves a 10% reduction in fuel consumption, thanks to its energy recovery system and ultra-high pressure combustion technology. Its thermal efficiency reaches up to 50%, demonstrating exceptional performance in energy saving and emission reduction.
In terms of product positioning, the Tunland V7 is designed for utility and practical scenarios, featuring a trapezoidal leaf spring suspension that emphasizes durability and reliability. On the other hand, the Tunland V9 is aimed at both family and professional users, equipped with a coil spring multi-link suspension, offering enhanced comfort and a more intelligent experience in terms of interior and tech features.
Comprehensive Upgrade in Intelligent Safety and Comfort Features
The Tunland V series excels in both intelligence and safety performance. It comes standard with a 14.6-inch smart entertainment touchscreen, a customizable digital dashboard, synthetic leather seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and wireless charging, providing users with a luxury sedan-like driving experience. In terms of safety, the Tunland V series has earned a 5-star safety rating from C-NCAP. It is equipped with a range of active and passive safety technologies, including six airbags, 360° panoramic imaging, lane departure warning, electronic stability control, and more. Additionally, it supports L2.5-level intelligent driving assistance functions, including ACC adaptive cruise control, AEB automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist.
Deepening Localization Strategy and Promoting Collaborative Industrial Development
In March 2025, FOTON’s South African factory successfully rolled off the first automatic transmission heavy-duty truck tractor model. In June, FOTON launched the Truck Mate mini truck in South Africa. By September, the factory successfully produced its first CKD pickup model. With the official launch of the Tunland V series, FOTON Motor has further enriched its local product lineup, reinforcing its global philosophy of “growing together with Africa.” Since unveiling its Africa strategy and launching the “Lighthouse Plan” in 2024, FOTON has continuously strengthened its local operations. Through technology transfer, supply chain integration, and talent development, FOTON has created over a thousand local jobs, effectively driving the development of the upstream and downstream industrial chains, and supporting the upgrading of South Africa’s automotive industry.
