Triton brings the challenge to competitors
The bakkie war has intensified with the local launch of Mitsubishi’s next-generation Triton, an evolution in the iconic bakkie’s 46-year legacy.
- Product News
- 21 November 2024
Wekaba, a leading manufacturer of medium to high-volume CNC-machined automation components, has officially inaugurated its new R25-million automotive manufacturing plant, which the company says is a groundbreaking facility that will extend its capability to produce internationally designed components at world-class standards with zero defect.
Wekaba was established in 1981 and is a National Association of Automotive Component and Allied Manufacturers (NAACAM) member. As a Tier 1 and Tier 2 manufacturer, the company specialises in CNC-turned and milled machined components for industries such as automotive, mining, rail and construction. It is a key supplier to leading companies in the pre-stressed cable industry and is known for its innovative design capabilities, focused on precision-engineered products.
The event celebrated partnerships, notably with Toyota SA, which played a crucial role in the plant’s development. “With an eye to future export opportunities across Africa and beyond, the company is set to become a key player in the global automotive market,” says Wekaba Managing Director, Gunter Haacke.
“The opening, attended by key partners and stakeholders, marks a significant milestone in Wekaba’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. Located in the Alrode industrial zone in Johannesburg, the plant is equipped with cutting-edge technology and a stringent quality control centre, poised to deliver safety-critical production parts that meet the highest industry standards,” he adds.
“Engineers collaborate to create parts that ensure exceptional fitment while promoting sustainable practices. The opening of the plant has also resulted in the creation of 22 new jobs, offering fresh opportunities in a challenging economic landscape,” Gunter says.
He adds that Wekaba's expert team excels in product development management, collaborating closely with customers to deliver tailored solutions that drive efficiency and innovation in manufacturing.
“As production ramps up, the facility will not only be a site for manufacturing, but will be a vibrant hub of innovation, where employees are encouraged to share ideas and collaborate on projects that push the boundaries of automotive technology.”
“With ISO 9001:2015 certification and ongoing efforts toward IATF 16949 certification, Wekaba ensures the highest quality standards in its operations. The company is B-BBEE Level 3 certified and 80% black-owned, reflecting its commitment to empowerment and inclusivity,” Gunter noted.
NAACAM commends Wekaba on their significant investment into a new manufacturing facility. The R25 million investment made by an 80% Black-owned company into a world-class manufacturing facility speaks directly to the vison of establishing a globally competitive, sustainable and transformed industry as envisioned in the South African Automotive Masterplan (SAAM 2035).
The SAAM 2035 objective of 60% local content is one of the key pillars of the Masterplan this new investment and partnership with Toyota will see Wekaba positively contributing to new local content.
The bakkie war has intensified with the local launch of Mitsubishi’s next-generation Triton, an evolution in the iconic bakkie’s 46-year legacy.
Unlike in the past, when dealerships primarily waited for customers to come to them, we now take a more proactive approach, bringing our vehicles directly to places where people gather, allowing them to experience the product first-hand, including offering test drives,” says Gerrie van der Kaay, Dealer Principal at Supergroup Dealerships Jetour Midrand.
JAC Motors added ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) to its X200 2.8L TDI 1.5-tonne single-cab, enhancing safety for both the crew and cargo. This latest upgrade complements the ABS-equipped X200 1.3-tonne double-cab targeted at organisations with labour-intensive crews.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Human beings have an innate inner drive to be autonomous, self-determined, and connected to one another. And when that drive is liberated, people achieve more and live richer lives.
Daniel Pink
Leading used car trader, WeBuyCars, which listed on the JSE in April this year, is expanding its business focus to include third party sales and is rapidly expanding its vehicle supermarket and buying pods presence in South Africa.
The Isuzu Foundation, in collaboration with IRONMAN4theKidz, donated R250 000 to three Mossel Bay charities dedicated to uplifting vulnerable youth, families and individuals in need.
Hino South Africa has handed over four mobile offices to the Gauteng Government Roads and Transport Department, which are to be used as Smart Driving Licensing Testing Centres by the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC).