CHINA-MADE TUNLAND BAKKIE FOR JIMS 2011

The Tunland high end one-ton bakkie, which is coming to South Africa next year, will be previewed on the Foton stand at the Johannesburg International Motor Show that takes place at Expo Centre, Nasrec, from October 8 - 16. 

Production of the left-hand drive Tunland starts in Beijing, China, in November, with right hand versions for export starting to come off line in February 2012. The Tunland will reach South Africa in the first half of 2012, where it will be distributed by Foton South Africa, passenger car division,  which is a joint venture between the Imperial and Bidvest  Groups. 

The Tunland, which was code-named P201, claims to be the largest one-ton pick-up on the market with a cab that offers the spaciousness of a large SUV. The chassis frame is claimed to be particularly rigid for outstanding on/off road durability. Prototypes have already passed stringent European-type crash tests with a projected four-star Euro NCAP rating.

Power comes from a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine developed in conjunction with Cummins of the United States. It develops 120kW of power and 360Nm of torque. There will also be the option of a 2.4-litre 100kW 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 be offered in the future. 

The Tunland will be joined on the Foton stand by the 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 View minibus taxis and panel vans. Subsequently, in 2010, the one-ton Thunda bakkies were added to the range.

The tough Thunda pick-ups, with attractive styling and a high level of standard equipment, are aimed at a wide spectrum of local buyers, 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 of torque, while the 2.8-litre turbo diesel produces 68kW of power and 202Nm of torque. Both have been developed to provide strong pulling power together with low fuel consumption. They drive the rear wheels through a five-speed gearbox.

STORY BY TUNLAND