Toyota Hilux - Common bakkie used in South Africa
It is funny how many people living outside of Africa have no idea that South Africa is a very modern and cosmopolitan country. It is not all jungle and wildlife unless we include a cement jungle and a pretty wild nightlife in many of the top cities in South Africa.
When it comes down to car talk, almost every auto manufacturer in the world has a presence in the country. In figures, 8 out of 10 international car brands have offices and show rooms in the country and 3 out of 4 international tire companies are doing business in South Africa. They even have car assembly plants for export to other countries like Ford which is intent on producing the pick-up and the Puma diesel engine in the SA plants.
Toyota South Africa just began full operations on their 5 year, R2.4 billion facility which will supply their European markets. In short, the car selection in South Africa is very diverse and complete. Many white families have at least 2 cars in their garage. The 2008 government report reveals an astounding 1,390 variants for light commercial vehicles and cars in South Africa. Choices in cars, used or new, have doubled in the past 10 years. The most popular and common are Toyota, Ford, Mazda, Volkswagen, and BMW. As of end of 2008, these brands held 80% of the market.
It is also interesting to note that there are more cars in South Africa compared to other African countries but there is a preference for utility vehicles and bakkies. Bakkies are pick-up trucks or vehicles that have an open load area. The original meaning of the Afrikaans word is “small bowl.” It can be used to refer to a Nissan or a Toyota – the brand is inconsequential when using the work bakkie.
The old bakkies were the country-style farm trucks which looked like clunkers and were a very rough ride even on paved roads. With the new bakkies, however, it is a totally different story. They are luxurious, safe, and modern. They’re your pick-up trucks as seen in the US, UK, and Japan. These are the most common cars after the compact and sedan especially outside the cities. This is because the roads are not as well-paved and they have multiple uses. They are also considered a status symbol because of their sporty look, price tag, and features. Bakkies can be used to transport anything from kitchen appliances (in the case of a small business, for example) to builder’s sand and pockets of cement.
Also very common is the van especially the Toyota Hiace. The demand for this van is always at a high level. The Hiace is dependable, durable, and can take all sorts of beating and rough wear and tear. The spare parts are easy to find and very affordable. They are also South Africa’s taxi cabs or minivan taxis. According to the Department of Transport of South Africa, as of 2008, 8 out 10 taxis are the Toyota Hiace.
Other common vehicles you will see on the road of South Africa are the Corolla, Bluebird, Camry, and a host of trucks like the Hilux, Isuzu and Hino trucks.