Volvo Trucks South Africa (SA) has started the assembly of Euro 6 and FH Aero trucks at its production facility in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. 

While the new additions do not dramatically change the physical scope of the Swedish truck maker’s current operations in South Africa, they do play an important role in elevating the technical expertise of the existing workforce such as the assembly operators, road testers and product auditors.

“Our teams are gaining enhanced skills and deeper exposure to advanced technologies that position us for future innovations,” says Volvo Trucks SA Durban plant director Vuyo Sabata.

The integration of Euro 6 and FH Aero production is complementary to the existing local assembly of Volvo’s full range of extra heavy trucks – including the FH, FM, and FMX ranges.

“Local assembly of Euro 6 and FH Aero trucks reinforces Volvo Trucks’ leadership in sustainable transport solutions, while continuing to support the development of the local manufacturing sector,” notes Volvo Trucks SA MD Stuart Potter.

“As we assemble trucks on order, it is a clear indication that many of our South African customers are incorporating more sustainable and efficient transport solutions into their fleets.

“Euro 6 represents one of the highest global standards for emissions, safety and technical performance, and having these models on our production line reinforces our position as a plant that can meet advanced international requirements.”

By assembling trucks locally, Volvo Trucks SA is not subject to import duties that are typically applied to fully built-up vehicles. This enables the company to offer Euro 6 and FH Aero models at more competitive pricing.

The Euro-6 standard represents a substantial improvement in terms of emissions and fuel consumption over the current Euro 2 standard regulating both passenger and commercial vehicles in South Africa.

Volvo Trucks SA continues to offer products with Euro 3 technology and upwards.

The start of assembly also marks the introduction of the FH Aero range in South Africa.

This product was launched globally in 2024 and is seen by the truck maker as the ideal long-haul truck.

Its aerodynamic extended cab is designed to save fleet owners energy, while also reducing their carbon footprint.

Local customers are able to choose between electric and diesel models, with specialised I-Save technology for enhanced fuel economy.