Isuzu Motors South Africa achieved its highest annual production yet at its Struandale plant in Gqeberha in March 2026.
Image: Isuzu
With a 21% year-on-year increase in production volumes for both the D-Max bakkie and Isuzu Trucks, Isuzu Motors South Africa (IMSAf) has recorded its highest annual production on local shores in March 2026. The Japanese automaker’s local arm reported over 27,400 D-Max bakkies and 3,800 Isuzu trucks were produced at the factory for local sales and export around Africa.
Isuzu retained its position as South Africa’s number one medium- and heavy-commercial vehicle brand for the 13th consecutive year. In March 2026, Isuzu SA recorded 3,513 new vehicles sold and 726 vehicles exported. Of the former figure, 3,008 units were seventh-generation D-Max bakkies. While the Struandale plant has produced bakkies for over 45 years, the D-Max has been the primary vehicle built at the factory since April 2022, following a R1.2 billion investment to upgrade.
“Records are built on more than just machinery and equipment; they are built on the discipline of our people and the loyalty of our customers across the continent,” said Dominic Rimmer, Executive Vice President for Manufacturing and Product Engineering at Isuzu Motors South Africa. “Every record-breaking vehicle that leaves our production line represents a promise kept to our customers. We aren’t just chasing volumes; we are expanding responsibly to move the world for those who keep our economies moving. The success of this financial year is rooted in the collective effort, skills, and commitment of the IMSAf workforce; supported by strong systems and operational discipline.”
