Beijing Automobile Works South Africa (BAW SA) has recently expanded its 16-seater minibus Sasuka fleet by launching a 2.8 liter turbo diesel derivative to its existing petrol variant on November 6. 

The new 2.8 liter diesel engine offers 92 kw and 320 Nm of torque, making it one of the more powerful options on the local market. In addition, the new model’s average fuel consumption is relatively low at about 11.9 liters per 100 km. 

"The new engine has been put through a full regimen of testing in local conditions to ensure it offers the best possible performance and meets the needs of the local taxi industry," said BAW SA CEO Zhang Wei. 

Zhang said the new diesel engine Sasuka minibus is fit for running in the hilly areas in South Africa and surrounding countries such as Namibia, Lesotho, Mozambique and others. 

"There is an increasing demand for cost-effective diesel options in the local taxi industry," Deputy Manager of BAW SA Yao Liqiang said when explaining the launch of the new product. "The constant rise in fuel price places a lot of pressure on taxi drivers, and for many, it makes more sense to opt for diesel, but only if it offers reduced running costs. And this is precisely what the new Sasuka diesel offers." 

Since its initial launch in 2013, BAW’s 16-seater minibus, the Sasuka, has gradually gained popularity in the South African taxi market. BAW has now introduced a 2.8 liter turbo diesel derivative to supplement its existing Sasuka petrol variant, as part of the company’s long-term growth plan. 

Zhang said that BAW’s new Sasuka diesel will also enjoy the same comprehensive service plan as its original petrol version: a two-year/100,000-km warranty and five-years/500,000-km in the rental plan.

At the launch ceremony held in Boksburg, South Africa, on November 6, Zhang thanked Sasuka buyers and those who had offered their support to BAW SA. He said that the plant is committed to contributing to serve the local public transport, creating more job opportunities through localization, and producing more and better products that cater to the needs of South Africa and Africa as a whole.