Time for reliable, affordable trucks

Eicher trucks might sound new to the local market, but the brand has a multinational track record dating back to 1948.

The manufacturer’s decision to enter Namibia is no surprise, given its long history of producing tractors for the Indian market.

In 1982, Eicher formed a partnership with Mitsubishi Motors to manufacture light commercial vehicles, and by 1994, it had broken into the commercial sector with nine and 12-tonne products.

A significant milestone followed in 2008 with a joint venture between Eicher Motors and the Volvo Group.

Since then, the partnership has driven next-generation technology and innovative solutions for both owners and operators.

Today, the fleet has grown exponentially to include passenger buses, tipper trucks, and cement mixers.

Keeane Wellmann of Autohaus Truck and Bus, the sole local distributor, says the applications for these trucks are endless, as they can be converted to suit specific business requirements.

Furthermore, the vehicles are fitted with fuel-saving monitoring systems, allowing fleet owners to manage driving skills and prevent misuse. Wellmann notes the system is tamper-proof.

Through an “on-driver fuel coaching” system, owners can monitor performance, abuse, or any interference affecting the bottom line, he says.

The cabins are designed with both the operator and passengers in mind. Some industrial variants even cater for two passengers.

“The vehicle uses red, blue, and green lights to indicate whether the operator over-revved or skipped gears, which has an adverse effect on fuel usage,” Wellmann explains.

Skipping gears can lead to premature clutch wear and tear, particularly when hauling heavy loads, which can be a costly affair.

Some trucks arrive at the dealership as a “cab and chassis” only, Wellmann says, allowing owners to fit specialised bodies, such as toolboxes for fresh produce or carcasses for abattoirs.

While the smaller trucks are ideal for courier services, the inventory also includes buses, construction tippers, and concrete mixers.

For the health sector, Eicher offers ambulances.

The engines are engineered to deliver optimum power with minimal downtime for services and repairs.

Operators have also been considered; the cabins feature a ‘walk-through’ design for easy access, flat connected seats for resting, and air conditioning.

Maintenance and services fall under the Autohaus Group, which is responsible for the sale, servicing, and distribution of Eicher vehicles across Namibia.

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