BAW (Beijing
Automotive Group) South Africa has confirmed the introduction of a new minibus
taxi named Sasuka. The Sasuka –
which means “we are leaving/departing” in isiZulu – will do battle with the
country’s favourite minibus taxi brand, the Toyota Quantum as well as the other Chinese brands. Sasuka will be built at BAW’s new factory in Springs, Eastern Gauteng and plenty features to get excited about.
For one this vehicle will be licenced to carry 16 passengers, each with their own seatbelts
for safety. Added safety items include standard ABS with electronic brake distribution (EBD), quite needed for a
taxi, especially in this country.
Moreover, the Sasuka comes fitted standard with some really
cool in-taxi-entertainment items not
found even in some so-called premium cars. Here we are talking about the usual central
locking, air conditioning, a CD/radio
combo, Bluetooth connectivity, plus
a DVD player with a fold-down screen
on the ceiling, satellite navigation
and digital TV readiness.
BAW has furthermore promised full parts back-up to operators.
“For instance, we have a large parts warehouse at our Springs facility, which
will hold parts to the value of R40
million. Daily deliveries are being made to our dealers. Parts pricing targets are very clear and will
be well below competitor levels based on the Kinsey basket”, according to BAW
SA's Head of Sales, Marketing and After-Sales John Jessup.
The Sasuka runs a 2.7-litre
engine with 110kW at 5200rpm, and 235Nm of torque at 4000rpm. There is a
two-year/200000 km service plan, which also covers maintenance of the
entire braking system, attached to
it. Service intervals are every 10 000 km and will be undertaken via a one-hour
express service concept. The warranty period is for two-years or 100 000km.
BAW Sasuka Pricing
2.7-litre (R275 900)
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