Toyota SA seals record for biggest Hilux gathering at NAMPO Harvest Day 2026 with 1,545 bakkies
Image: Toyota SA
At the 2026 NAMPO Harvest Day, Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) reclaimed the title for the largest gathering of Hilux bakkies ever, bringing together 1 545 examples of all generations and body styles in Bothaville, Free State. The figure beats the previous record set at Atlantis Dunes in Cape Town by 105 vehicles.
Alongside the record run, TSAM aimed for four Guinness World Records on the day. These included “most vehicles to switch on their headlights simultaneously” and “most car doors closed simultaneously.” Those two records are currently held by Suzuki Auto South Africa, from the 2023 and 2025 Jimny Gatherings. The other two attempts were for “most car horns sounded at the same time” and “most tailgates shut simultaneously.” The existing horn record is 1 077, set by Ford Everest Club Philippines on 27 August 2023; the tailgate record has not yet been set. The results for all four attempts are under adjudication and will be announced once officially confirmed.
“The record-breaking day was incredibly memorable. We set out to make history, and our Hilux community rallied from all over South Africa. This event wasn’t just about smashing records; it was about honouring the Hilux’s enduring legacy and the strong community around it. We’re immensely grateful for the overwhelming support that helped us reach this historic milestone,” said Leon Theron, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at TSAM.
“Our customers are our community, and their participation showed that the Hilux is more than a vehicle. It’s a proudly South African legacy—built to last across generations, families, communities and shared moments. Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped write Toyota’s local history and the Hilux legacy. We couldn’t have done any of this without you.”
