Limited number Mercedes-Benz Maybach EQS allocated to South Africa

Limited numbers of the new ultra-luxurious Mercedes-Benz Maybach EQS have been allocated to South Africa – with no price tag announced just yet – and the car takes electric motoring to its highest reach yet.

When it comes to luxury vehicles, Mercedes-Benz has always been at the forefront of innovation and sophistication. The Maybach EQS is no exception, offering a unique blend of cutting-edge technology, unparalleled comfort and exquisite craftsmanship.

The exterior design shows off the chrome accents and iconic brand emblem that sits enthroned on the hood, standing out from the black panel with vertical, chrome-plated trim strips. The large black panel is smooth closed for the first time and the element for the radar sensors is fully integrated and no longer visible.

Mercedes-Benz development succeeded in using the material indium, which is permeable to radar beams, in the entire panel area. The wafer-thin, shiny silver material is covered with a black lacquer finish. This creates a unique high-gloss black appearance with an extraordinary depth effect.

Stepping into the Mercedes-Benz Maybach EQS is akin to entering a realm of unrivalled luxury. The meticulous attention to detail is evident in every stitch of the lush, premium upholstery and in the polished finish of each surface. The cabin, a sanctuary of comfort, is designed with the discerning passenger in mind, offering expansive space and ergonomically designed seats that provide both support and unparalleled comfort during travel.

“The Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV is our first all-electric, full-size luxury SUV and a testament to our vision. The interior is an emotional and stylish statement, a blend of luxury and technology in the most harmonious sense. The immense power offered by the latest electric technology ensures an effortless driving experience.

Together with the innovative, progressive SUV proportions, we are completely redefining the SUV luxury of the future not just globally but locally as well,” says Mark Raine Co-CEO Mercedes-Benz South Africa.

The central display starts with the familiar home screen and the so-called 'zero layer’. In this basic setting, the navigation map dominates. The driver can carry out 80% of the most common interactions directly without changing the application. The system reacts situationally and is personalised with intelligent suggestions and forward-looking offers.

The rear passengers experience the same extensive range of infotainment and comfort features with two 11,6-inch displays on the backrests of the front seats. With the standard MBUX High-End Rear Seat Entertainment, content can be shared quickly and easily on the various displays. It is also possible to select and modify the navigation destinations from the rear seats. The standard equipment also includes the MBUX rear tablet, which can also be used outside the vehicle, and the MBUX Interior Assist.

Ambient lighting casts a gentle glow, allowing passengers to customise their environment to suit their mood or preferences, further enhancing the sensory experience. Additionally, the vehicle's noise insulation techniques create a serene, whisper-quiet interior, making it the perfect retreat from the bustling world outside.

Craftsmanship in the Maybach EQS is not merely about luxury, but about creating an intimate, personalised space that speaks volumes of its dedication to excellence and passenger comfort.

Beyond safety, the EQS features an advanced air filtration system, ensuring the cabin air remains pure and refreshing, irrespective of external conditions. The vehicle's commitment to sustainability is further underscored by its energy-efficient components and regenerative braking system, which optimises battery life and extends range.

The battery has a usable 118 kWh with a stated range of 490 kilometres.

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Shifting trends in the South African car market

The preferences for motor vehicle segments and body shapes in South Africa are undergoing significant changes, potentially marking a permanent shift. As the market grapples with new realities, even long-standing favourite brands are facing challenges.

Over the past 15 years, South Africa’s motor retail industry has been shaped by slow economic growth, inadequate infrastructure, political instability, and a series of global shocks.

"These include the 2008 financial crisis and the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, both of which had severe economic and social impacts. More recently, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and conflicts in the Middle East have heightened global political tensions and hindered economic activity," says Paul Marshall, managing director of Lightstone Auto which analysed the data and produced the graphs.

Globally, car sales rose to approximately 75,3 million in 2023, up from around 67,3 million in 2022. This growth reversed the declining trend seen during the economic slowdown of 2020 and 2021. Supply chain disruptions caused by Covid-19 and geopolitical conflicts led to shortages in the automotive semiconductor industry. Despite these challenges, 2023 sales exceeded pre-pandemic levels and are expected to continue rising through 2024, according to Statista.

"Both global and local factors influence consumer behaviour in South Africa, and the outlook for sales is less optimistic compared to other international markets," adds Marshall.

In 2009, South Africa recorded 393 405 new vehicle sales, the second-lowest in the past 15 years, just above the 389 205 sales in 2020 when Covid-19 struck.

Although the market recovered post-2009, reaching more than 600 000 annual sales between 2012 and 2015, consumer demand weakened before the pandemic, dropping to 536 604 in 2019. Currently, sales have rebounded to similar levels (531 787 in 2023), with further growth dependent on an improving domestic economy.

There are indications of potential interest rate relief from the South African Reserve Bank this year, although government policies may shift following the 2024 election results. Until then, consumers are likely to remain under financial pressure and continue to opt for more affordable vehicles.

Market Dynamics: Brands, Body Shapes, and Segments

Economic challenges may dampen consumer spending, but lifestyle changes and resilience are driving new purchasing trends in South Africa’s car market.

Toyota and Volkswagen remain the top brands, but the competition is heating up. Suzuki surged to third place in 2022, overtaking Hyundai, which had moved to third just a year earlier. Renault and Kia have also entered the top 10, with Renault in seventh place since 2014 and Kia in eighth since 2016. New entrants like Chery and Haval, offering more affordable options from China and South Korea, are also making their mark.

"Interestingly, BMW and Mercedes-Benz have fallen out of the top 10, and as the quality of more affordable vehicles continues to improve, these shifts could become permanent," he says.

Preferences for body shapes are also evolving. The Crossover/SUV segment, which accounted for about 13% of the market in 2009, has steadily grown to become the top choice by 2020, reaching 35% of the market in 2023.

This trend reflects consumers’ concerns about road safety and a preference for more robust vehicles that offer better protection and navigation on pothole-ridden roads. The Double Cab One-ton Pick-up has also seen consistent growth over the past 15 years, becoming the third top seller in 2023, further supporting this observation.

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Ford Racing - part of its South African centenary heritag

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Africa Automotive: VW Group Africa signs new Egypt deal

Volkswagen Group Africa is expanding its partnership with the Egyptian government and have signed a new agreement to look into building new Body Shop and Assembly Line facilities.

Following up on their progress from an agreement in November 2023, Volkswagen Group Africa and the Egyptian government have signed a fresh deal. This previous agreement was to explore setting up a joint automotive painting facility in the East Port Said Industrial Zone.

This new strategic partnership will focus on studying the feasibility of constructing and using new Body Shop and Assembly Line buildings in the same zone.

The agreement was signed by several key figures, including the Chairman of the General Authority for the Suez Canal Economic Zone, Waleid Gamal Eldien; the CEO of the Sovereign Fund of Egypt, Ayman Soliman; Vice President of the East Port-Said Development Company, Dr Ahmed Fikry; and the Chairperson and Managing Director of Volkswagen Group Africa, Martina Biene. The signing ceremony, held during the Egypt-EU Investment Conference in Cairo on 29-30 June 2024, was attended by Egypt’s Prime Minister, Dr Mostafa Madbouly, along with several other ministers and the European Commissioner for Trade, Valdis Dombrovskis.

The earlier agreement set the stage for deepening the localisation of the automotive industry in Egypt. It highlighted the Egyptian government's commitment to boosting its automotive sector. In June 2022, the Egyptian government launched the Automotive Industry Development Programme (AIDP) to increase local value addition, ramp up vehicle production, attract investment, and improve emission standards in the automotive industry.

The Egyptian government plans to create a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to build the Body Shop and Assembly Line facilities. Volkswagen Group Africa has shown interest in using these facilities to assemble vehicles for the Egyptian market, depending on the feasibility study's positive outcome.

Martina Biene commented: “This new strategic cooperation with the Egyptian government provides Volkswagen Group Africa with a low-investment model, shifting the focus from capital expenses to operational expenses. It also allows us to move forward with our long-term plans to establish a presence in Egypt. We're encouraged by the Egyptian government’s innovative approach to make this project viable, and we’re fully committed to working together to make it happen.”

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UD Trucks expanding its Ultimate Women programme

UD Trucks Southern Africa (UDTSA) has announced the expansion of its ‘Ultimate Women Programme’ in collaboration with the Commercial Transport Academy (CTA).

Following the programme's success over the past two years, the CTA has launched its inaugural Bus Driver Development Programme. This initiative is a joint effort involving the CTA, Southern African Bus Operators Association (SABOA), Clarendon Transport Underwriting Managers (CTU) and UDTSA. Around 30 women trainees will benefit from this transformative programme, and to bolster the training process, UDTSA has provided CTA with a new Croner Bus PKE 280 65-Seater.

The ‘Ultimate Women Programme’ by UDTSA was initiated in 2022 with the goal of promoting gender transformation within the transport industry. At its launch, UDTSA donated two new Kuzer light-medium duty trucks.

Nicci Scott, the founder of the Commercial Transport Academy, says: “We are delighted to partner with UDTSA in our shared vision of increasing female representation in the transport industry and fostering an equitable society. The programme has made significant strides since its inception and we are immensely grateful to UDTSA for their unwavering support and the profound impact this has had on the lives of these young women.

“With the new focus on training bus drivers, we are committed to working closely with all our partners to ensure the successful completion of the programme.”

Participants in the Bus Driver Development Programme will undergo a comprehensive 12-month training course that will include technical modules on vehicle operation and control, defensive driving techniques, traffic laws and regulations and route navigation or planning.

Additionally, the programme will feature a strong theoretical component, covering essential topics such as stress management, professionalism and effective passenger communication.

Filip Van den Heede, Managing Director of UD Trucks Southern Africa, remarked: “Our partnership with CTA has been transformative in our ongoing mission to empower women in our industry and make a lasting impact on the communities we serve. Expanding the programme to include bus driver training underscores the success of this important initiative and our commitment to creating a better life for people, the planet, and the logistics sector.

“We wish the new candidates a fruitful journey in the coming months and are confident they will contribute to a brighter future.”

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Volvo Trucks to trial hydrogen

In South Africa, there are several green hydrogen projects at various stages of development, as carmakers and truck companies continue testing work on the alternative energy source to establish feasibility, especially in the harsh operating conditions over long distances that make the Southern tip of Africa unique.

“Some notable examples are the ‘Hydrogen Valley’ feasibility study conducted by the DSI with partner companies, as well as the ‘Boegoebaai Hydrogen Cluster’ in the Northwest Province,” says Eric Parry, Senior Manager of Sustainable Solutions at Volvo Trucks South Africa. “Projects like these will enable the introduction and testing of hydrogen-fuelled commercial vehicles in South Africa.”

Volvo Trucks maintains that no single solution can solve climate change. Interest in sustainable transport solutions is growing locally, and the initial adopters in South Africa are companies that prioritise their environmental impact and already have emission reduction programmes in place.

Volvo Trucks is developing hydrogen-powered combustion engine trucks. Road tests with these hydrogen combustion engine trucks will commence in 2026, with a global commercial launch planned towards the end of the decade. Trucks powered by green hydrogen represent a significant step towards Volvo's net zero goal and support customers in achieving their decarbonisation targets.

Switching from fossil fuels to green hydrogen is one method to decarbonise transport. Hydrogen trucks are particularly suitable for long distances and areas where charging infrastructure is limited, or where there is insufficient time for battery recharging.

Volvo will begin customer trials of trucks using hydrogen in combustion engines in 2026, with commercial availability anticipated by the decade's end. Ongoing testing is already being conducted in laboratories and vehicles.These hydrogen-powered combustion engine trucks will complement Volvo’s other offerings, including battery electric trucks, fuel cell electric trucks, and trucks running on renewable fuels like biogas and HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil).

“Trucks with traditional internal combustion engines running on hydrogen will deliver the same performance and reliability as our diesel trucks, but with the added benefit of potentially low CO2 emissions from well-to-wheel. They will be a valuable addition to our battery electric trucks, which have been on the market for several years,” says Jan Hjelmgren, Head of Product Management and Quality at Volvo Trucks.

Volvo trucks powered by green hydrogen combustion engines have the potential to achieve net zero CO2 emissions when using renewable HVO as an ignition fuel and are classified as ‘Zero Emission Vehicles’ (ZEV) under the new EU CO2 emission standards.

“It’s clear that a variety of technologies are needed to decarbonise heavy transport. As a global truck manufacturer, we need to support our customers by offering a range of decarbonisation solutions, allowing customers to choose the best option based on their transport assignment, available infrastructure, and green energy prices,” says Hjelmgren.

Volvo's hydrogen-powered combustion engine trucks will employ High Pressure Direct Injection (HPDI), a technology where a small amount of ignition fuel is injected at high pressure to enable compression ignition before hydrogen is added. This technology offers higher energy efficiency, lower fuel consumption, and increased engine power.

Volvo Group has signed an agreement with Westport Fuel Systems to establish a joint venture utilising HPDI technology. This joint venture is expected to become operational in the second quarter of 2024, following formal closing.

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Africa Automotive: Jetour likely to debut in South Africa

Jetour, a sub-brand of Chery, is believed to be about to make its debut in the South African market but not as part of Chery South Africa, rather being independently imported and distributed with its own dealer network.

Details are sketchy now, but significant considering the recent opening of the Jigjiga, Ethiopia assembly plant where Jetour is assembled. While Ethiopia is a left-hand drive market, this facility may well have the capability to assemble vehicles for other markets in Africa, including South Africa.

With battery production coming on line in Morocco, the hiatus caused by the election buildup in South Africa has further pushed back the progress that should be in full flight in terms of the country leveraging natural resources and becoming a significant finished product supplier instead of just raw materials.

Although some concessions in terms of taxes have been announced for automakers converting their facilities to manufacture or assemble electric vehicles, nothing is on the cards for embattled consumers – so the exorbitantly high cost of battery electric vehicles (BEV) is still extremely slow and limited.

However, the industry continues to move ahead in this regards and Daimler Truck recently launched electric versions of the Actros and Canter.

Africa, it self, is responding and recently Pan-Africa electric vehicles company Spiro, operating in Kenya, secured a $50-million loan from the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) to expand its operations across the continent.

Spiro specialises in electric motorcycles and this latest move follows a $63-million loan from Societe Generale in August last year, aimed at expanding its presence in Togo and Benin.

Spiro, established in 2019, now manages more than 600 EV battery swapping stations in Kenya, Benin, Togo, and Rwanda. In February, Spiro revealed a partnership with oil marketing company Petrocity to set up battery swapping stations at Petrocity’s outlets, underscoring its focus on expanding in Kenya.

According to Afreximbank Executive Vice President Intra-African Trade Bank Kanayo Awan:, “The future of transportation lies in the use of electric vehicles and as demand for clean energy solutions soars, support towards companies like Spiro is crucial for accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles and reduction of carbon emissions.”

This development occurs as EV companies in Kenya and across Africa strive to secure funding through a mix of debt and equity to support their growth. EV companies have been setting up local assembly lines to meet the increasing demand for electric motorcycles, passenger cars, and buses, while also establishing charging stations in key areas of Nairobi and planning to expand to other major cities to address the lack of infrastructure, a significant barrier to the adoption of e-mobility.

However, the Kenyan government is set to present a Finance Bill that will introduce a value-added tax (VAT) on electric bikes, buses and solar and lithium-ion batteries. This proposal has raised concerns among industry stakeholders, including the Nairobi-based Associated Battery Manufacturers (ABM), who worry that the tax could substantially increase the cost of solar batteries. A 60-kilogram solar battery’s price could rise by $312 (45,000 Kenyan shillings) due to the tax.

While Kenya considers imposing an EV tax, other nations are encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles through different measures. For instance, Tunisia announced in 2023 it would offer tax breaks and purchase incentives to boost its EV sector, aiming to reach a fleet of 130 000 electric vehicles by 2030 as part of its broader environmental and energy sustainability goals.

Hugely significant is the battery swop programme. While motorcycle battery packs carry far less voltage than those in cars and trucks, the ideal electric scenario would be a safe system of ‘hot swopping’ that would allow users to get a fully-charged battery pack in around the same time as it takes to fill up at a fuel pump.

South Africa is ideally poised to be a front-runner in this and other innovations in the move to electrification but the slow responses – and often lackadaisical attitude of government means the country is falling further behind; and fast.

The slender threads holding the auto industry together are in grave danger of unravelling and all the good work done by the African Association of Automotive Manufacturers (AAAM) in conjunction with Afreximbank and via the Intra Africa Trade Shows to promote and urge Africa to adopt the AfCTA could end up being undone.

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Tense battle expected in Vryheid

There is a kind of a gunfight at the OK Corral feel to the buildup to the second round 2024 South African Rally-Raid Championship (SARRC), the PS Laser ProMac Vryheid 400, set to take place on May 24 and 25 in the Vryheid area of northern KwaZulu-Natal with both Toyota and Ford throwing plenty of spanners at getting their respective racers ready.

Following a stellar performance at the Nkomazi 400 in Malalane last month, where TGRSA secured a one-two finish, the team is enthusiastic about maintaining their strong start to the season.

Giniel de Villiers and co-driver Elvéne Vonk emerged victorious in Round 1, closely followed by teammates Guy Botterill and Dennis Murphy in second place. As they gear up for the next challenge, TGRSA will once again feature their seasoned teams: Henk Lategan with Brett Cummings, Giniel de Villiers with Elvéne Vonk, Guy Botterill with Dennis Murphy and Saood Variawa with Francois Cazalet, all piloting the latest GR Hilux EVO models.

The upcoming Vryheid 400 features diverse and demanding terrains such as farmlands, rocky stretches and scenic landscapes and marks the debut of the Vryheid area in hosting a round of the SARRC.

The event begins with a 14 km Castrol Qualifying Race on Friday, May 24, at 09:30 followed by a 38 km loop for Stage One at 13:00. On Saturday, participants will face Stage Two, a 175 km route starting at 08:00. 

After completing this stage once, there will be a mandatory 30-minute service break at the Designated Service Point (DSP) at the airfield before tackling the stage again. The race concludes at the Vryheid Airfield, where the podium ceremonies will also be held.

TGRSA Team Principal Shameer Variawa expressed his excitement for the Vryheid 400, stating: "We are looking forward to the Vryheid 400 and are excited to tackle the new terrain. Our crews have been preparing diligently, and we are confident in their abilities to deliver strong performances. The opening round was a great success, and we aim to build on that momentum this weekend."

Giniel de Villiers currently leads the Overall Championship standings, with Guy Botterill in second. Henk Lategan and Brett Cummings are eager to accumulate points after a challenging first round.

The Neil Woolridge Motorsport (NWM) Ford Rally-Raid Team will also compete in Round 2 of the South African Rally-Raid Championship (SARRC).

Despite a promising start in Malalane, the team faced minor technical issues which have now been resolved, allowing them to return to the championship fight at this new event.

Lance Woolridge and Kenny Gilbert (#234) showed great pace in their updated Shell-liveried NWM Ford Ranger at the previous race but were hindered by a broken driveshaft, finishing 11th in the Ultimate class. Their performance after the vehicle was repaired suggests they will be competitive in Vryheid.

Reigning champions Gareth Woolridge and Boyd Dreyer (#200) were contenders for a podium finish in Malalane until a water pump failure forced their retirement. They aim to come back strong at their home event.

NWM Ford team principal Neil Woolridge commented: "The performance of our two cars at the season-opener in Malalane was fantastic and both of the crews were on it right from the start. Unfortunately, we had two separate technical issues which were firsts for us, but we are confident that these have been diagnosed and rectified, and we are looking forward to the prospect of an all-new race in Vryheid."

The NWM-supported privateer team of Wors Prinsloo and Andre Vermeulen (#241) will also compete, having finished eighth in the Ultimate class in the opening race.

Fans can track the race action using the RallySafe app, available for download on iOS and Android devices.

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Daimler Truck makes electric moves

Aligning with Daimler Truck’s global goal of achieving 100% CO2-neutral trucks and buses by 2050, Daimler Truck SA (DTSA) has unveiled its first fully battery-electric truck lineup.

This featured the introduction of the Mercedes-Benz eActros 300, available in 4x2 and 6x2 rigid configurations, as well as a truck tractor variant. Additionally, the eActros 400 6x2 rigid and the eCanter range were presented.

These electric trucks, which are designed for light and heavy-duty distribution, are now available for sale, backed by DTSA's comprehensive support to ensure smooth integration into customer operations. However, long-haul variants will be introduced as soon as local legislation on vehicle weight and length permits.

Dealers in Pretoria, Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town have been appointed to handle sales and service of the electric vehicles with a specific focus on training and the use of the specialised equipment required to deal with the high voltage battery packs.

DTSA also outlined its strategic plans for the FUSO eCanter range, which includes extended collaborative trials with customers. Six units will be distributed among customers for three-month trial periods to evaluate performance and infrastructure needs for battery-electric trucks.

Since its introduction in 2020, the FUSO eCanter has helpng establish the framework for electric truck approval in the country. Post-trial, the eCanter will be available for sale through operating leases.

Maretha Gerber, president and Group CEO of Daimler Truck Southern Africa, says: “Launching the eActros and eCanter in South Africa marks a significant achievement and achieving our 2050 CO2-neutral goal will involve various zero-emission technologies, and this launch is a crucial step towards a sustainable transportation future.”

Gerber highlighted the necessity of significant investments and industry-wide collaboration, particularly in developing charging infrastructure, to make battery-electric truck operations viable in South Africa. DTSA welcomes any public or private initiatives that support EV charging for trucks, which are essential for the adoption of electric trucks.

The eCanter features six HV battery packs with a total capacity of 83 kWh, offering a range of up to 100 km. It can be quick-charged to full capacity in 1,5 hours using a 50 kW DC charger, or in 11 hours using a regular charger.

The eCanter has a single-speed transmission, a Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) of 7,5 tons, and a body and payload capacity of 4,2 tons. Its electric motor provides 135 kW and 390 Nm of torque, with a wheelbase of 3 400 mm and an overall length of 5 952 mm.

The eActros 300 is equipped with three Lithium-Ion battery packs totalling 336 kWh, offering a range of up to 330 kilometres. It can charge from 20% to 80% in 1 hour 15 minutes at 160 kW.

The GVM of the eActros 300 rigid variants ranges from 19 to 27 tons, with body and payload capacities from 8,2 to 16,1 tons. The truck tractor variant has a Gross Combination Mass (GCM) of 40 tons.

The eActros 400 comes with four Lithium-Ion battery packs totalling 448 kWh, providing a range of up to 400 kilometres. It charges from 20% to 80% in 1 hour 40 minutes at 160 kW. This model has a GVM of 27 tons and a body and payload capacity of up to 15.4 tons.

Both the eActros 300 and eActros 400 feature a rigid electric axle with two integrated, liquid-cooled electric motors and a two-speed transmission, delivering a continuous output of 330 kW and a peak output of 400 kW.

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Getting on the gas with Isuzu

The fact 20 Isuzu long wheelbase vehicles can use CNG underscores a significant advancement in fuel options for truck fleets. Fuel consumption is the largest operational cost for any truck fleet. Integrating a Compressed Natural Gas - Diesel Dual Fuel (CNG-DDF) system for these Isuzu models places them at a competitive edge in the fluctuating fuel market.

This approach offers reliable, cost-effective, and consistent mobility solutions. The automotive industry widely acknowledges the use of CNG, with approximately 14 million Natural Gas Vehicles (NGVs) operating across 80 countries.

CNG is a different technology unlike LPG, commonly associated with applications such as flame-grilled steaks.

Over the past five years, Isuzu Motors South Africa (IMSAf) has been testing CNG-DDF converted trucks, demonstrating their reliability. CNG, short for Compressed Natural Gas, primarily consists of methane, while LPG, or Liquified Petroleum Gas, comprises propane and butane. While CNG is a viable alternative to petrol and diesel in vehicles, LPG finds use in industrial, refrigeration, agricultural, and catering sectors.

Notably, CNG is lighter than air, dispersing quickly in case of a leak, and posing a lower ignition risk compared to LPG, which can spread on the ground and ignite more easily. CNG's lower carbon content also results in fewer carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide emissions, making it a safer and more environmentally friendly option.

In the quest for greener fleet operations, CNG offers numerous benefits. It significantly reduces the carbon footprint by emitting 20%-25% less greenhouse gases and virtually no toxic pollutants. Other advantages include reduced particulate emissions, quieter engine operation due to smoother combustion, lower fuel consumption, diminished fuel theft and adulteration, fewer engine carbon deposits and improved engine oil quality.

Operating the Isuzu CNG-DDF system is straightforward, retaining the standard diesel engine configuration with a 100% diesel fallback option. A simple button press switches between Dual Fuel mode (Diesel/Gas mixture) and 100% Diesel mode, with automatic reversion to diesel when the natural gas cylinder is empty or if the CNG system detects a fault. The system boasts quick gas filling times compared to the lengthy charging required for electric trucks, although driver training remains necessary.

Engine performance and efficiency remain consistent in Dual Fuel mode, with engine torque and power nearly unchanged, ensuring unaffected trip times. A special engine control unit determines the optimal gas/diesel fuel mixture, maintaining similar torque and power levels.

From a safety perspective, CNG is advantageous as it disperses harmlessly into the atmosphere when leaked, aided by an added odorant for easy detection. It has a narrow flammability range (5%-15%) compared to petrol (1%-8%), and its safety record is statistically superior to conventional fuels. Additionally, CNG is non-toxic.

Considering the volatile diesel fuel prices, with coastal rates at 21,91/litre and a 400-litre tank costing nearly R8 800, along with global oil market uncertainties, adopting CNG becomes a strategic decision beyond mere cost considerations.

However, the distribution network for CNG remains a challenge, with availability currently limited to the Gauteng region. Municipalities represent an ideal application for CNG due to environmental benefits, reduced fuel consumption, anti-theft advantages, and centralized refilling. The CNG gas cylinders, while adding to the vehicle's tare mass and reducing payload, do not affect the Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) and Gross Combination Mass (GCM).

The ability to fit CNG-DDF systems as an option on 20 Isuzu long wheelbase models significantly benefits fleet replacement planning. Tools like the TruckScience Axle Weight Calculator, available at TruckScience.com, help understand the weight implications of CNG equipment and calculate payload capacity effectively.

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