The Tunland high end one-ton bakkie, which is coming to SouthAfrica next year, will be previewed on the Foton stand at the JohannesburgInternational Motor Show that takes place at Expo Centre, Nasrec, from October8 - 16.
Production of the left-hand drive Tunland startsin Beijing, China, in November, with right hand versions for export starting tocome off line in February 2012. The Tunland will reach South Africa in thefirst half of 2012, where it will be distributed by Foton SouthAfrica, passenger car division, which is a joint venture between theImperial and Bidvest Groups.
The Tunland, which was code-named P201, claims tobe the largest one-ton pick-up on the market with a cab that offers thespaciousness of a large SUV. The chassis frame is claimed to be particularlyrigid for outstanding on/off road durability. Prototypes have already passedstringent European-type crash tests with a projected four-star Euro NCAPrating.
Power comes from a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel enginedeveloped in conjunction with Cummins of the United States. It develops 120kWof power and 360Nm of torque. There will also be the option of a 2.4-litre100kW petrol engine by the end of 2012.
An advanced four-wheel drive transmission system,with rear differential lock, is optional while a 6-speed ZF automatic will beoffered in the future.
The Tunland will be joined on the Foton stand bythe Thunda single- and double-cab bakkies.
Foton, a leading Chinese commercial vehicle brand,arrived in South Africa in August 2007 with the launch of a range of Viewminibus taxis and panel vans. Subsequently, in 2010, the one-ton Thunda bakkieswere added to the range.
The tough Thunda pick-ups, with attractive stylingand a high level of standard equipment, are aimed at a wide spectrum of localbuyers, being well suited for both commercial and recreational use.
There is a choice of petrol or diesel engines,with the fuel-injected 2.2-litre petrol power unit developing 76kW and 193Nm oftorque, while the 2.8-litre turbo diesel produces 68kW of power and 202Nm oftorque. Both have been developed to provide strong pulling power together withlow fuel consumption. They drive the rear wheels through a five-speed gearbox.
STORY BY TUNLAND
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