Selecting the best truck for the job

In Southern Africa’s demanding transport, construction and agricultural sectors, choosing the right truck can mean the difference between operational efficiency and costly downtime. With over 20 years’ experience in the trucking industry, Esaia Taunyane, sales director at UD Trucks Southern Africa, supports customers in selecting vehicles that are purpose-built and tailored to their operational needs.

Taunyane explains that the process begins with a detailed needs analysis across five key areas: productivity, fuel efficiency, safety, uptime and after-sales support. Dealership teams evaluate the intended application – whether long-haul, construction, regional distribution or specialised operations – before recommending the most suitable truck configuration. Factors such as payload requirements, route profiles and road conditions are carefully considered to determine the right chassis, suspension, engine and transmission setup.

Fuel efficiency remains a key priority. Engines and transmissions – whether manual, automated manual (ESCOT) or Allison automatic – are selected to deliver the right balance between power and economical fuel consumption. UD Trucks’ connected services provide real-time data on vehicle health, fuel use and driver behaviour, enabling businesses to optimise their total cost of ownership (TCO).

Safety and driver comfort are equally central. Features such as emergency braking systems and UD Stability Control are selected according to the specific operation. Spacious and quiet cabs help reduce fatigue for long-haul drivers, while maintenance planning, genuine parts and mobile workshops minimise downtime. “As the operator of the truck, the driver is an extremely important stakeholder and also influences the fleet owner’s purchasing decision in the next cycle,” notes Taunyane.

Clearing misconceptions

Taunyane says that many customers initially focus on upfront cost or may underestimate the importance of selecting the right truck specification for their application. UD Trucks addresses this through a consultative sales approach, supported by driver training and local success stories that demonstrate how the correct truck configuration can optimise fuel efficiency, reduce maintenance and maximise uptime.

A model for every need

UD Trucks’ model range – Kuzer, Croner, Quester and Quon – is designed to meet the various needs of Southern Africa’s industries. The medium-duty Kuzer and Croner trucks are well-suited for urban and regional distribution, with options for specialised applications such as waste management or personnel transport. The heavy-duty Quester is built for construction, general cargo and waste operations, while the Quon delivers advanced technology, superior safety and maximum uptime for long-haul and high-value transport. Euro 2, 3 and 5 engines ensure compliance and efficiency across all applications.

Performance and TCO

Fuel consumption can account for up to 67% of operational costs, making correct configuration critical. Engine and drivetrain selection, aerodynamic design and telematics all play a role in managing fuel use. UD Connected Services enables predictive maintenance, real-time diagnostics and even theft recovery – helping operators reduce costs and keep vehicles on the road.

“We’ve also partnered with TankSafe, fitting anti-siphoning units to our truck-tractor range of diesel vehicles in long-haul applications,” adds Taunyane.

Future-ready and sustainable

UD Trucks is preparing customers for cleaner, smarter transport. Euro 5 engines with selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology, electrification trials and autonomous vehicle testing reduce emissions while enhancing operational efficiency. Lightweight vehicle designs, driver training and fuel optimisation systems further improve sustainability without compromising performance.

Proven results

One farmer from the eastern Free State says it best: “We rely on UD Trucks to get our produce from the fields to the pack-sheds, even in rugged off-road conditions. With their durability and support, we know our operation will last for generations.”

Choosing the right truck isn’t just about specifications; it’s about understanding the business, optimising performance and partnering with a manufacturer that delivers uptime, reliability, affordability and measurable results. With UD Trucks, the right vehicle becomes a business advantage.

Why UD Trucks?

• Tailored to your operation: Medium- and heavy-duty trucks configured for urban, regional or long-haul routes.
• Maximised uptime: Predictive maintenance, genuine parts and mobile workshops reduce downtime.
• Fuel-efficient performance: Engine, transmission and telematics solutions optimise total cost of ownership.
• Safety and comfort: Advanced braking systems, stability control and ergonomic cabs improve driver efficiency.
• Future-ready: Euro 5 compliance, electrification trials and self-driving technology prepare businesses for tomorrow.