Mercedes-Benz Trucks celebrates an South African milestone

A landmark 150,000^th truck has rolled off Daimler Truck Southern Africa’s East London line, celebrating six decades of local manufacturing, skills, investment and enduring customer trust across the region.

Daimler Truck Southern Africa (DTSA) has celebrated a major manufacturing achievement with the completion and handover of its 150,000^th locally assembled truck at its East London plant. The milestone vehicle, a Mercedes-Benz Actros 2645LS/33, was delivered to TT Group Holding, a long-standing customer whose association with the brand reflects the partnerships that have helped sustain the plant for more than six decades.

Olaf Petersen, vice president for sales and marketing, says the milestone demonstrates the value of relationships that extend beyond a vehicle purchase. “The trucking industry is built on strong, enduring relationships. We don’t simply hand over a truck; we partner with our customers and support them throughout their journey,” he elaborates.

“It is especially meaningful to deliver our 150,000^th locally built truck to TT Group Holding, a valued customer who shares our commitment to performance and excellence. This milestone is not only a reflection of our product strength, but of the trust and collaboration that drive our business – and the business of our customers – forward.”

Six decades of local production

The East London story began in 1962, when the first L-Type Mercedes-Benz truck rolled off the assembly line. That moment marked the start of Mercedes-Benz truck production in South Africa and laid the foundation for an operation that has continued to evolve with the market.

More than 60 years later, the 150,000^th truck has emerged from the same site. While the plant’s history is measured in decades and production milestones, its contribution extends far beyond the vehicles themselves. The facility supports local employment, technical development and skills transfer while contributing to localisation within the commercial vehicle (CV) industry. It has also supplied reliable, efficient and fit-for-purpose trucks to operators across South Africa and the wider region.

Furthermore, it reinforces East London’s standing as a CV manufacturing centre in Africa. Gladstone Mtyoko, vice president of manufacturing, says the achievement belongs to the people who have sustained the operation. “The production of our 150,000^th truck at the DTSA assembly plant represents far more than a number – it is a testament to the dedication, craftsmanship and passion of our people. It reflects the strength of our production capabilities and our relentless focus on quality, efficiency and continuous innovation,” he explains.

“This milestone demonstrates the important role we play in powering mobility and keeping Africa moving. I am incredibly proud of this achievement and of the outstanding team behind it, who continue to set the standard for excellence in manufacturing. Sibhiyoza kunye – sikunye siqhubekekela phambili ekugqweseni.”