Auto China 2026 promises to be milestone event
Auto China 2026 marks another milestone in the evolution of an event that has tracked China’s rise from emerging market to global automotive powerhouse.
- Industry News
- 16 April 2026
FAW Trucks Laubstar hosted a select group of clients for an exclusive guided tour of the FAW Trucks Assembly Plant in Gqeberha (Coega Industrial Development Zone).
The visit provided an invaluable behind-the-scenes look at the advanced manufacturing processes that underpin FAW Trucks Southern Africa’s reputation in the truck industry.
Delegates walked the full production line, observing each stage of vehicle assembly, from chassis preparation and component integration to quality control and final testing. Guests witnessed first-hand the cutting-edge technologies, automated systems, and craftsmanship that enable the plant to produce a complete range of commercial vehicles.
The Coega facility plays a pivotal role in FAW’s regional strategy, with ongoing investments aimed at scaling production capacity from its initial 5 000 units per annum to a targeted 8 000 units annually by 2028.
A R200-million upgrade programme announced in late 2024 is expanding production lines for 12 key models and enlarging the 30 000 m² facility, supporting increased local assembly and export demand while fostering job creation and skills development in the Eastern Cape.
The tour fostered direct engagement between the FAW Trucks Southern Africa leadership, plant engineers, and Laubstar representatives, reinforcing long-term relationships and providing deeper insight into the brand’s commitment. The guests gained a clearer appreciation of how FAW’s vertically integrated manufacturing ensures supply chain reliability, this is critical in a market where logistics operators face rising cross-border opportunities.
As South Africa’s transport and logistics sector prepares for continued growth in 2026, with forecasts indicating a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 6.4% for the logistics market (Ken Research, 2026 edition), driven by African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA) implementation, infrastructure upgrades, and reduced load-shedding, events like this plant tour equip operators with confidence.
The visit highlighted not only the impressive scale and sophistication of local production but also the shared vision of delivering dependable, high-value trucks built to keep South Africa moving.
Auto China 2026 marks another milestone in the evolution of an event that has tracked China’s rise from emerging market to global automotive powerhouse.
Hyundai Automotive South Africa is expanding its Hyundai Grand i10 range with the introduction of a new Executive derivative, as competition intensifies in the price-sensitive entry-level vehicle market.
Geely has launched the new Geely Auto E2 in South Africa, adding a compact all electric hatchback to its growing local line up.
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