New Scania assembly plant to benefit local transport, logistics sectors.
Scania Southern Africa says the opening of its new Regional Product Centre (RPC) Aeroton, Johannesburg, will not only improve the production of its range of commercial vehicles, but should also be seen as a vote of confidence in South Africa.
This was underlined by Erik Bergvall, MD, Scania Southern Africa, at the launch, who said that the group saw itself as a partner in building the country.
“Our dedication extends far beyond selling vehicles. We are here to create lasting solutions, build a strong industry and contribute meaningfully to the economy and local communities. Scania’s presence in South Africa is more than business. This can be also be seen in the new plant enabling it to offer an improved service to its customers. With this facility, we are positioning ourselves to better serve our customers with high-quality, locally assembled products, ensuring faster deliveries and enhanced support,” said Bergvall.
“Though the new facility does not increase the number of locally assembled vehicles, it produces them more efficiently, and enables Scania Southern Africa to scale up production if required to do so. This new plant provides us with the capability to ramp up production, ensuring we remain agile and responsive to the needs of our customers across South Africa. But this is more than just a facility upgrade, it’s an evolution in the way we operate,” said Bergvall.
“The plant is strategically positioned right next to its parts distribution and storage centre, which strengthens synergies between its assembly operation and its parts supply chain. This integration means faster turnaround times, improved logistics and ultimately also better experience for our customers.”
“The new facility also sets up the commercial vehicle group for a greener future. As demand for Scania’s sustainable transport solution grows, we must have the infrastructure to meet these demands in an efficient way,” he said.
“Our goal is to develop vehicles and services that reduce environmental impact while providing unmatched value to our customers. We are building a future where transport is smarter, cleaner and more efficient. A future where Scania leads the way in creating solutions that benefit businesses, communities and the planet,” he added.
“This expansion means greater job opportunities, it means skills development and a stronger contribution to South Africa’s economy. By investing in local talent and infrastructure, we are helping to shape the future of transport in the region.”
The setting up of the RPC was just the latest milestone for Scania Southern Africa, as it came a year after relocating its head office to Constantia Kloof and coincided with the group’s 30th anniversary in South Africa.
Scania Group, a prominent Swedish manufacturer of heavy trucks, buses, and engines, has solidified its position as a key player in the global automotive sector. The company operates under the ownership of the Volkswagen Group, which acquired full control of Scania in 2015. The total volume for truck and bus assembly at the end of 2024, from the inception of Scania SA in 1995, was 41 505 units.
