Despite a challenging operating environment marked by rising input costs, fuel volatility and infrastructure pressures, UD Trucks Southern Africa continues to deliver resilient performance, reinforcing customer confidence in the brand’s ability to support long-term business sustainability.

This is reflected in UD Trucks Southern Africa’s strong annual performance. The company achieved an overall new-vehicle market share of 8%, in HD 10.8%, with aggregate industry sales rising to 31 652 units, up from 31 190 units in 2024. The aftermarket business also posted robust growth, with Service Agreement uptake at ~50%, reinforcing long-term customer value, uptime, and operational efficiency - highlighting the company’s stability in a challenging economic climate.

“While the operating environment remains challenging, our performance shows that customers trust UD Trucks to deliver reliable solutions that support their businesses,” said Filip Van den Heede, Managing Director, UD Trucks Southern Africa (pic - left). “Our focus remains clear: to drive further for better by offering innovative products, strong retail partnerships and solutions that make a real difference to customer operations.”

Product Innovation Brought to Life on Track

Media the opportunity to experience the UD Quon and the Quester in real-world driving conditions around the track. The session reinforced UD Trucks’ philosophy of designing vehicles that deliver measurable performance where it matters most - on the road.

The UD Quon, UD Trucks’ flagship long-haul model, continues to set the benchmark for innovation in the range. Engineered for demanding heavy-duty applications, Quon combines advanced technology, high productivity and superior uptime to support customers operating under intense commercial pressure.

“The Quon represents the pinnacle of UD innovation - from performance and safety to driver comfort and connectivity. It is engineered for customers who demand more from their vehicles,” said Van den Heede.

UD Quester: Built Around What Matters Most

Also showcased was the UD Quester, reflecting the continued evolution of a truck that has played a critical role in UD Trucks’ success across global growth markets. First launched in 2013, Quester has built a strong reputation for efficiency, durability and versatility across applications including long haul, general cargo, construction and waste management.

The truck’s features are driven directly by customer insight, with a clear focus on fuel efficiency, safety, driver comfort and uptime - key factors influencing total cost of ownership.

“Quester is more than a truck - it is a business partner,” said Esaia Taunyane, Sales Director, UD Trucks Southern Africa (pic - centre). “Every feature on the Quester is guided by customer feedback. By improving efficiency, safety and the driver experience, we help customers reduce total cost of ownership and achieve stronger long-term returns on their fleet investments.”

With fuel costs accounting for a significant portion of fleet operating expenses, Quester’s engineering, supported by efficient powertrains, intuitive driving support systems and UD Connected Services, enables customers to extract more kilometers per litre while maintaining performance and reliability.

Uptime as a Strategic Advantage

Uptime remains a cornerstone of UD Trucks Southern Africa’s value proposition. Through proactive maintenance planning, predictive servicing and rapid breakdown support, the company continues to help customers minimize unplanned downtime and protect productivity.

“Uptime is about anticipation, not reaction,” said Sanjay Naipal, Aftermarket Director, UD Trucks Southern Africa (pic - right). “By combining proactive maintenance solutions with strong dealer support and connected services, we help customers manage costs, protect productivity and keep their fleets moving - even in demanding operating conditions.”

People & sustainability

People remain central to UD Trucks Southern Africa’s long-term sustainability strategy. Continued investment in cadet development, driver training and leadership programs reinforce the company’s commitment to building future-ready skills within the industry.

This commitment was recognized at the NAAMSA Automotive Business Council Awards, reinforcing UD Trucks Southern Africa’s standing within the local automotive sector.

“Driving further for better goes beyond our products,” Van den Heede concluded. “It reflects our purpose of creating a better life for people, for the planet and for sustainable growth. It is about how we support our customers, empower our people and contribute meaningfully to the communities in which we operate.”