Toyota South Africa Motors has celebrated the ceremonial line-off of the ninth-generation Hilux at its Prospecton plant in Durban. The occasion, attended by President Cyril Ramaphosa and dignitaries, highlighted Toyota’s enduring partnership with South Africa’s automotive industry.
R10.4 Billion Commitment
The Hilux programme is backed by R10.4 billion, the largest single product investment in Toyota’s South African operations. Andrew Kirby, TSAM President and CEO, remarked: “Every new generation presents an opportunity to elevate our technology, strengthen our supplier base, deepen localisation, develop our people and improve the competitiveness of our operations.”
Building on a 56-Year Legacy
Hilux production began at Prospecton in 1968, with more than 2.9 million units produced since. Today, vehicles are exported to 74 markets across Africa and Europe. The programme supports 101 Tier One suppliers and sustains nearly 27,000 jobs, alongside 4,300 direct Hilux employees at the Durban facility.
Infrastructure Expansion
Toyota’s investment includes a new 29,300 square metre Logistics Centre, a Chassis Frame Coating Facility, and a Chassis Frame Welding Facility, due for completion in 2027. R3.2 billion is dedicated to supplier development, while R7.2 billion enhances production preparation. Supplier partners have contributed an additional R2 billion to facilities and tooling.
Strategic Confidence
Shinichiro Otsuka of Toyota Tsusho Africa Division said: “South Africa remains an important strategic production base for Toyota globally.” President Ramaphosa added: “The R10.4 billion investment in the new generation Hilux programme demonstrates precisely the type of investment that South Africa seeks to attract.”
Sustaining Leadership
Toyota’s Prospecton plant, its oldest outside Japan, also produces the Corolla Cross, Fortuner, and Hiace. With over 8,500 employees nationwide, Toyota has been South Africa’s leading automotive brand for 46 consecutive years. Kirby closed the event by affirming: “The generation before us built one of Africa's greatest automotive manufacturing success stories. Our responsibility is to ensure that the generation after us inherits one that is even stronger.”
Staff Writer
Reporting from the front lines of the automotive industry, delivering expert analysis and the technical updates that drive the South African motor sector forward.
