Daimler Truck Southern Africa (DTSA) has reached a production landmark at its East London (KuGompo) assembly plant with the handover of its 150 000th locally manufactured vehicle, a Mercedes‑Benz Actros 2645LS/33. The milestone unit was delivered to TT Group Holding during a ceremony at the facility, underscoring the long-standing relationship between the manufacturer and the transport operator.
Olaf Petersen, Vice President for Sales and Marketing at DTSA, described the occasion as a reflection of the company’s approach to customer engagement. “The trucking industry is built on strong, enduring relationships. We don’t simply hand over a truck; we partner with our customers and support them throughout their journey.
"It is especially meaningful to deliver our 150 000th locally built truck to TT Group Holding, a valued customer who shares our commitment to performance and excellence. This milestone is not only a reflection of our product strength, but of the trust and collaboration that drive our business and the business of our customers forward,” he said.
The journey of local truck production in South Africa began more than six decades ago, when the first L-Type Mercedes-Benz Truck rolled off the same East London line in 1962. That event marked the start of both Mercedes-Benz truck assembly in the country and the broader establishment of local commercial vehicle manufacturing. The latest production figure reinforces the plant’s continued relevance in delivering transport solutions tailored to regional conditions, while also supporting localisation targets, employment, and skills development.
Gladstone Mtyoko, Vice President of Manufacturing at DTSA, highlighted the role of the workforce in achieving the production figure. “The production of our 150 000th truck at the DTSA assembly plant represents far more than a number; it is a testament to the dedication, craftsmanship and passion of our people.
It reflects the strength of our production capabilities and our relentless focus on quality, efficiency and continuous innovation. This milestone demonstrates the important role we play in powering mobility and keeping Africa moving. I am incredibly proud of this achievement and of the outstanding team behind it, who continue to set the standard for excellence in manufacturing. Sibhiyoza kunye – sikunye siqhubekekela phambili ekugqweseni,” Mtyoko said.
The East London plant has marked several notable achievements over the years. In 2010, it assembled Mercedes‑Benz OH bus chassis in support of the FIFA World Cup hosted in South Africa. Five years later, the facility produced its 125 000th truck.
More recently, the plant contributed to broader Daimler Truck production networks with the assembly of the 750 000th CKD unit in 2019 and the 800 000th unit from the Wörth plant in 2024. In 2023, Mercedes‑Benz Trucks commemorated 25 years of the Actros model in South Africa, alongside its local assembly history. The current celebration in 2026 also coincides with international milestones, including 130 years since the first Mercedes‑Benz truck, 30 years of the Actros in Europe, and 80 years of the Unimog.
Looking ahead, DTSA indicates that it will continue to invest in its production processes, product development, and personnel, with the aim of adapting to the changing demands of the transport sector while maintaining its manufacturing footprint in the region.
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