The bakkie pool is about to get even deeper with the imminent arrival of LDV as a new brand name on the market and will launch with a selection of T60 double cab models.
Born in the United Kingdom in 1896, the brand has evolved and changed over a century to become Leyland DAF Vehicles in 1987. It later became known by its acronym, LDV, which has since become its registered brand name.
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LDV is best known for its pick-ups, SUVs and vans. LDV Automotive Australia sold more than 21 000 units last year, with the T60 range of pick-ups feature as top-seller among entrepreneurs and small businesses.
LDV is part of SAIC Motor, from China that sells more than 5-million vehicles in China alone and it exports to most regions across the globe, including Europe, the USA and Australasia.
The brand will be headquartered in Sandton, Gauteng, from where it will serve a national network of dealers. A national dealer network is currently being appointed, with construction on the first LDV dealership in Sandton, Gauteng already completed. A national parts distribution warehouse agreement is nearing completion.
The T60 is powered by a 2,0-litre bi-turbo diesel engine that, in Australian specification, generates 160 kW at 4 000 r/min and 50 Nm of torque from 1 500 r/min. LDV South Africa will offer a 5-year / 200 000 km factory warranty and a 5-year / 100 000 km service plan as standard, across the product range of SUVs, vans and pick-ups.
“Few vehicle brands can lay claim to the track record and history of LDV. On a global scale, SAIC and its family of vehicle brands such as LDV dwarf other Chinese vehicle manufacturers, and on a regional scale LDV has already firmly proven and established itself in right-hand drive markets such as Australia and New Zealand, where it is a very popular brand,” says Ockert Conradie, general manager at LDV South Africa.
Colin Windell
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