![24 DMAX1](/imager/gallery/56809/24DMAX1_ac4358fb135aa81dd484ffed19f8ae96.jpg)
45 years of Isuzu in South Africa celebrated
ISUZU Motors South Africa is celebrating its legacy of producing ISUZU bakkies in the country over the past 45 years with the launch of the limited-edition D-MAX 45.
- Product News
- 26 July 2024
Mercedes-Benz is to convert its 23-seater Sprinter Inkanyezi locally for the taxi industry.
According to Marinus Venter, Head of Product and Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Vans SA: “To deepen our commitment to the local taxi industry and in support of the South African economy, our Inkanyezi vehicles are now being converted at our East London conversion facility. This means that taxi owners will be able to immediately operate and earn income from the purchased vehicle instead of waiting for a conversion.”
The popular Inkanyezi – isiZulu for ‘the Star’ – available at dealers as a long-wheelbase 516 CDI, is priced from R945 000 with after-sales service offered by the Mercedes-Benz dealer network nationwide.
“The safety of drivers and passengers is paramount. Thanks to the latest safety developments, we have applied best-in-class features, such as the robust seat anchorage system, which conforms to the highest standards.
Adaptive brake lights are also standard on the Inkanyezi. In an emergency, the normal brake light turns into a flashing brake light, which has proven to be more visible to other motorists than a conventional brake light,” says Venter.
Optional extras to bolster safety include Active Brake Assist, Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Parking Assist and Lane Keeping Assist. Blind Spot Assist with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, a reversing camera with display in the interior rear-view mirror, ensures that the Inkanyezi is safe at all speeds and in all conditions. The optional parking package, with 360° camera, makes light work of tight parking spots, such as at taxi ranks and other loading and off-loading areas.
Getting in and out of the vehicle requires little effort, as the Inkanyezi is fitted with a sidestep as standard. A hard-wearing Marley floor provides an anti-slip surface and protects the van’s floors.
The rear-wheel drive Inkanyezi 516 CDI is powered by a 2-litre, 4-cylinder diesel engine that delivers 120 kW and 330 Nm.
Some of the most important aspects in the total operating costs of a taxi are the purchase price, fuel, maintenance and repair costs. Venter notes that the Inkanyezi meets stringent criteria in all these areas to ensure profitability for taxi operators.
The clinic in Kabah, one of Kariega’s oldest townships, which is known for its history of extreme poverty, has received a significant revamp thanks to the efforts of the Volkswagen Community Trust and the employees of Volkswagen Group Africa.
The original BMW M fan favourite – the BMW M FEST – returns to the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit from 25 – 27 October 2024.
Mercedes-Benz Vans South Africa has announced the appointment of Natasha Jardim (main photo) as its new Managing Executive. She succeeds Nadia Trimmel, who is moving to a new position within the Mercedes-Benz Group.