Say hello to the Foton Tunland G7 – now proudly assembled right here in South Africa for around R400,000. Looking for a tough, affordable double-cab bakkie that won’t empty your wallet?
In a massive boost for local manufacturing, Chinese truck giant Foton has kicked off production at the BAIC plant in the Coega Special Economic Zone. This isn’t just good news for buyers dodging import prices; it’s a win for jobs, exports, and shaking up SA’s bakkie market. Let’s dive into why the Tunland G7 is turning heads and what local assembly means for you.
From China to Coega: Foton’s SA Success Story
Foton, part of the BAIC Group and China’s top commercial vehicle maker, first hit SA shelves in mid-2024 after a brief hiatus. The Tunland G7 lineup stormed in with entry-level pricing that left rivals sweating – the base double-cab starts at R399,900, a full R130,000 cheaper than the cheapest Toyota Hilux. Sales? Explosive.
In September 2025, it notched 232 units sold, snagging ninth spot on the bakkie charts and making Foton SA’s fastest-growing brand in the segment.
But importing from China meant tariffs bumping up costs. Enter local production. On September 25, the first CKD (completely knocked-down) Tunland G7 rolled out from kits shipped over, with full-scale assembly firing up in 2026. Expect 250 units a month at first, ramping for African exports.
Foton SA CEO Marius Smal hailed it a “historic milestone,” noting tweaks for bumpy SA roads and local needs. Backed by a R241 million investment in gear, it’s creating 100 jobs in phase one – a shot in the arm for the Eastern Cape economy.
This fits Foton’s “Lighthouse Plan” for Africa, using SA as a launchpad. With 64% of our vehicles imported, this move pushes back against the tide, boosting local skills and supply chains.
What’s Under the Hood of the R400k Tunland G7?
The Tunland G7 is all about value – perfect for farmers, builders, and fleets needing grit without gimmicks. The entry double-cab rocks a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel pumping 120kW and 390Nm, paired with a six-speed manual (4×4 autos top out at R559,900). It’s frugal at 8.0L/100km, tows 3,500kg, and hauls over a tonne in the bin.
Step inside for cruise control, a 9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, rear sensors, ABS, and two airbags. Ground clearance? A bakkie-ready 210mm. Higher specs add leather, sunroof, and adaptive cruise, but that R400k sweet spot keeps it accessible. Plus, a five-year/150,000km warranty seals the deal.
Local builds could trim prices further by skipping duties – up to 25% off – though Foton might reinvest some in growth. It’s gunning for spots against the JAC T6 (R359,900) and LDV T60, giving budget buyers real options.
Why Local Foton Assembly Shakes Up SA’s Bakkie World
Bakkies are SA’s lifeblood – double-cabs rule sales for work and weekends. Chinese brands like GWM’s P-Series hold 10% market share, and Foton’s first local CKD for a Chinese truck brand changes the game. Faster parts, better service, and road-tested durability? Check. It’s a headache for Toyota and Ford, but a boon for consumers tired of premium pricing.
As imports rise, this signals more investment – think jobs, tech transfer, and exports firing up African growth. For buyers, it means reliable rides at fair prices, proving Chinese quality is leveling up.
Ready to Test Drive a Local Foton?
The Tunland G7 isn’t flashy, but it’s tough, affordable, and now proudly SA-made. Whether you’re hauling loads or heading off-road, this R400k bakkie delivers. Head to your nearest dealer – with sales soaring, they won’t sit around long.
What’s your must-have in a bakkie? Drop a comment; let’s chat about the next big thing in SA motoring!
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