Toyota starts pilot production of new Hilux pickup model at South African plant

Toyota South Africa has completed more than 77% of a 10.4 billion rand ($634 million) investment programme for production of the new-generation Hilux pickup truck and has started pilot production at its Durban plant, it said on Thursday.

The investment has included upgrading the Durban plant and the programme is scheduled for completion by June 2027, Toyota South Africa Chief Executive Andrew Kirby said at the new Hilux line-off ceremony at the plant.

The company targets annual production of about 140,000 units of the new model eventually, including exports to Europe and elsewhere in Africa, after it phases out production of the existing Hilux model.

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“At a time when both the global and the South African automotive industries are undergoing profound change, this investment reflects Toyota Motor Corporation’s 7203.T confidence in South Africa, our people, and our manufacturing future,” Kirby told delegates.

The new-generation Hilux is equipped with more advanced safety systems and driver-assistance technologies as Toyota competes with Chinese brands such as GWM and Chery that are expanding aggressively in South Africa.

“The global automotive industry is at a turning point, shaped by major disruptions driven by stricter emission regulations, technological advances, and new market entrants,” he said.

Tightening emissions regulations in Europe are forcing South Africa-based automakers, which rely heavily on the region as an export market, to upgrade facilities and introduce cleaner vehicle technologies to meet evolving requirements.

Toyota South Africa’s investment includes 3.2 billion rand in facility upgrades, including a new logistics centre for imported parts and a new chassis treatment and coating facility, as well as 7.2 billion rand spent on production preparation for the new-generation Hilux, including advanced manufacturing equipment, robotics and supplier tooling.

A third project, a new chassis frame welding facility incorporating advanced welding technologies, is scheduled for completion in June 2027

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