BAIC FOTON Launches Dual Heavy Trucks and Plug-in Hybrid Pickup to Deepen All-Scenario Product Matrix in Africa

PORT ELIZABETH, South Africa, Nov. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- On October 29, at BAIC FOTON's Africa Regional Partner Conference under the theme "Drive to Great," FOTON launched the GALAXUS R5 and GALAXUS C5 heavy trucks and the TUNLAND V PHEV plug-in hybrid pickup, targeting Africa's diverse and complex logistics and mobility scenarios. Covering cross-border trunk logistics, mining and engineering heavy haulage, daily multi-purpose mobility and long-distance travel, the three models showcase FOTON's vehicle technologies in energy efficiency, safety, load capacity and new energy, further enriching its African product matrix.

For cross-border trunk lines, port collection and distribution, and fuel transport, GALAXUS R5 focuses on efficiency, energy saving, safety and comfort. Its drag coefficient is as low as 0.476, and two powertrain combinations are offered. Aerodynamic design and powertrain optimization help fleets control costs in long-distance, high-frequency operations. It has passed ECE R29.03 frontal crash and cab rearward displacement tests. A wider sleeper, spacious cab and new-generation Grammer seats improve long-haul comfort. Climate adaptations target high temperatures, coastal and plateau environments, and a 3-year/450,000-km warranty is offered.

For mining heavy haulage, timber transport and large engineering materials, GALAXUS C5 strengthens complex-road capability and load carrying. It features a high bumper, over 750 mm ground clearance, a 30.5° approach angle and a 31° longitudinal pass angle. Its chassis uses a 700L high-strength steel frame, a 16-tonne 300 drive axle and high-load suspension, with 860,000 km of road reliability testing. It applies 58 anti-corrosion measures, galvanized outer panels, 1,000-hour weathering tests and 720-hour salt-spray tests for humid, dusty and coastal conditions.

The TUNLAND V PHEV, shown in Hanover in September, was launched for Africa. It uses a P1+P2+MLOCK Hyper four-wheel-drive hybrid architecture, a 2.0T hybrid engine and a four-speed DHT, delivering 350 kW and 800 N•m. It offers 87 km electric range, 1,000 km WLTP combined range and 32 kW DC fast charging (30–80% in 30 minutes), reducing reliance on public charging. It also provides 3.5-tonne towing, 250 mm clearance, MLOCK mechanical locking, front and rear electronic differential locks, an IP68 battery with 360° protection, and 220V/6kW external discharge.

The launches mark BAIC FOTON's expansion in Africa from commercial vehicles to trunk efficiency, industrial heavy haulage and new-energy mobility. With its South African manufacturing base and regional channels, FOTON will advance new-energy products and localized operations, supporting African logistics upgrading and industrial development.