21 May 2010

The Freightliner and Mitsubishi FUSO divisions of Mercedes-Benz South Africa (MBSA) have ended the first four months of 2010 with a volume increase of more than 27 % over sales compared to year-to-date 2009. These sales of 731 units contribute to MBSA’s market dominance of 34,7 % market share year-to-date.

“We are generally pleased with our sales growth, although our stock availability could have been more favourable, which would have led to increased sales. Taking into account limitations with both capacity and supplier turnaround time in the United States, we are doing our utmost to remedy the situation,” says Ian Riley, Divisional Manager, Freightliner/FUSO.

“Despite a depressed market, we expect to see some recovery in the extra-heavy segment due to fleet replacement. As for the medium and heavy segments, we feel they may remain under pressure,” adds Riley.

“In February this year we introduced our new Canter range with the Euro 2 engine, some of which were recently premiered to the agricultural sector at the NAMPO show in Bothaville,” adds Riley.

In September, FUSO will introduce the FUSO FK/FM and FP/FV series with Euro 2 and 3 engines. The FK/FM series is completely new in terms of cab design with the latest technology. The FP/FV will see engine upgrades.

In January 2009, Freightliner brought the Detroit Diesel engine support in-house and this has proved to be extremely successful. Although the loss of the CAT engines has been sad, Freightliner and its countrywide dealer network continue to support customers in terms of parts and service, and will continue to fulfil all obligations.

“Freightliner Argosy remains the benchmark and truck of choice for longhaul transportation. Cummins remains at the forefront of engine customisation and we will continue to focus on our position of “Cummins customisation” for whatever load, road or application the customer requires. Detroit Diesel is now in-house, and will receive our full focus in terms of engineering, supply and service, with new specifications and enhancements,” says Riley.

The Columbia will continue to be supplied with the MBE 4000 engine and there could be some changes on the horizon.

“Our dedicated Sales Manager for Freightliner/FUSO Burgert Kloppers, has recently been appointed to a new position, Regional Manager responsible for Africa and Russia, reporting directly to Daimler Trucks North America. Burgert will be based here at MBSA, but I would like to take this opportunity of wishing Burgert well, and thanking him for his great contribution to our fantastic brands,” concludes Riley.