Isuzu Trucks South Africa held onto its spot as the number one Japanese original equipment manufacturer (OEM) in South Africa in 2016.

Achieving this top position has been a clear objective for the company since its inception in 2006, first became a reality in 2013.

According to Isuzu Truck South Africa’s Director and CEO Craig Uren, maintaining this market position for four years running became especially tough in 2016. Uren cited difficult economic times, political uncertainty and major economic influences as challenges that have plagued the market for the past few years, and are likely to continue to do so for years to come.

Although 2016 was a trying year, Isuzu Trucks South Africa ended with a 14.6% market share from the total park of 3 952 units.

2016 sales

With 1 971 units sold across the 19 N-Series model derivatives totalling 50% of the OEM’s total volume for 2016, Isuzu Trucks claimed 23.3% of the total medium commercial vehicle market (8 451 units including AMH). However, in the heavy commercial vehicle market of 5 460 units, 28.3% or 1 545 units were Isuzu’s. The extra heavy commercial vehicle segment takes up the bulk of the volume (11 860 out of 27 047 units) and in this segment Isuzu Trucks achieved a 3.5% share. The company’s share in the bus segment was 1.8%.

When comparing the market excluding van and bus – the segments that Isuzu Trucks don’t actively compete in – the company’s share is 16.7%.

“We wish to thank our dealers and Isuzu Trucks’ partners for their contribution to our continued success” says Hiroaki Sugawara, CEO and Managing Director of Isuzu Truck South Africa. “Achieving the number one position is no mean feat and to do so for four consecutive years is commendable”.

In stall for 2017

In the coming year Isuzu Trucks will continue to expand its business into Africa and invest in its local dealer network as it aligns long-term strategies, while offering customers and fleets the best suited truck and aftersales service for their requirements.

“Will Isuzu Truck South Africa be the top Japanese OEM for a fifth year in a row? 2017 is not going to be an easy-going year, but with product, parts and aftersales service back-up, there shouldn’t be a reason why not. But time will tell,” concludes Uren.