Is the T60 the Next Game-Changer in the South African Bakkie Market?

By Aphiwe Nzimande

Pictured aboved is the top of the range 4x4 T60.

Navigating the bustling bakkie market is akin to selecting a prized steed from a stable of heavy hitters. Adding to the fray is the entry of LDV, a British automaker under the umbrella of SAIC Motor, a global behemoth renowned for churning out over five million vehicles annually, primarily in China.

LDV, an abbreviation for Leyland DAF Vehicles, specializes in trucks and lorries. Despite its British heritage, LDV has swiftly made waves in markets like Australia and New Zealand, selling over 21,000 units in the previous year alone. Now, it's set to make its mark in South Africa.

This is the official logo of Leyland DAF vehicles.

Kicking off its South African venture is the introduction of the T60 bakkie, marking LDV's foray into the local light-commercial vehicle segment. While models like the SUV D90 and the people-mover Mifa are on LDV's roster, their South African debut is yet to be confirmed.

Assuring consumers of performance and reliability, LDV asserts rigorous local testing and homologation processes. The T60 series, equipped with a 2.0-liter bi-turbo four-cylinder diesel engine, boasts impressive stats - 160 kW and 500 Nm. Expect both 4x2 and 4x4 configurations, available in 6-speed manual and 8-speed ZF automatic transmissions.

This is the eT60 which is LDVs first ever all-electric bakkie.

To sweeten the deal, LDV South Africa promises a comprehensive 5-year/200,000 km factory warranty and a matching 5-year/100,000 km service plan across its SUVs, vans, and pick-ups. The T60 lineup, comprising the Max, Pro, and Elite variants, aims to cater to diverse consumer needs.

Anticipation mounts as LDV South Africa gears up for the May 2024 launch, with further details on specifications and the vehicle range set to be unveiled soon.