Mercedes-Benz is to convert its 23-seater Sprinter Inkanyezi locally for the taxi industry.
Share with friends
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.
Volkswagen has expanded the new Tiguan model line-up with the addition of two new engines, a 2.0 TDI with 110kW and a 2.0 TSI with 140kW. Both engines are offered with a 7-speed DSG transmission.
DFSK South Africa announced that effective immediately, DFSK will be extending its warranty offering on its new DSFK KO1S Bakkie and DSFK C35 Panel Van to a 50 000km / 2-year warranty for all new customers ensuring greater peace of mind and customer satisfaction.
The challenge for us is to maintain our Dealer of the Year status in the future as it symbolises the effort we put in to create the best environment for our customers and our staff.
Mahindra South Africa marked two decades of success in the country by hosting the Mahindra Fusion Fest, a landmark event that blended business, culture and community engagement and set the stage for a dynamic third decade, according to the manufacturer.
The SunBet Arena in Pretoria is a hive of activity as Mahindra South Africa finalises preparations for its historic Fusion Fest this Saturday (22 February).
Digi Cars Group, a dealership group in the South African automotive industry, is making an impact at this year’s EidFest, which is taking place at the Gallagher Convention Centre from Thursday, 20 February to Sunday, 23 February 2025.