A new chapter for the Hilux begins with R10,4 billion investment by Toyota SA Motors

Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) marked a major milestone in South Africa’s industrial and manufacturing journey with the ceremonial line-off of the ninth-generation Hilux at its Prospecton manufacturing plant in Durban.

Held under the theme “Strengthening Roots, Accelerating the Future,” the event was supported by President Cyril Ramaphosa, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau, ambassador of Japan to South Africa Fumio Shimizu, senior government representatives, business leaders and executives from Toyota Motor Corporation, underscoring the strategic importance of the automotive sector to South Africa’s economy.

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The launch of the ninth-generation Hilux is underpinned by a R10,4 billion investment, making it the largest single product investment in the history of Toyota South Africa Motors.

The investment reinforces Toyota’s long-term commitment to South Africa as a globally competitive automotive manufacturing hub.

Additionally, it bolsters the country’s position within Toyota’s international production network.

Hilux heritage in SA
For more than five decades, Hilux has been a cornerstone of South African manufacturing excellence.

Since production began in Prospecton 56 years ago, more than 2,9 million Hilux vehicles have been produced, with exports reaching 74 international markets across Africa and Europe.

Today, Hilux supports an extensive industrial ecosystem, including 101 Tier One suppliers, an annual supplier spend exceeding R15 billion, nearly 27 000 jobs across the supplier network and more than 4 300 direct Hilux employees at the Prospecton plant.

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Leading the charge
Speaking at the ceremony, president and CEO of Toyota South Africa Motors Andrew Kirby said: “The ninth-generation Hilux is not simply the next Hilux. It is the next chapter in South African manufacturing.

Every new generation presents an opportunity to elevate our technology, strengthen our supplier base, deepen localisation, develop our people and improve the competitiveness of our operations. The R10,4 billion investment reflects Toyota’s enduring confidence in South Africa, its people and its manufacturing future.

“Every Hilux that leaves our production line carries the contribution and pride of thousands of South Africans.”

R10,4 billion investment impact
The investment programme includes three major infrastructure developments: a new 29 300m² Toyota Logistics Centre, a state-of-the-art chassis frame coating facility and a new chassis frame welding facility, scheduled for completion in June 2027.

Every new generation of Hilux creates an opportunity to expand South Africa’s industrial capability. To this effect, R3,2 billion of the investment was directed towards local supplier development, supporting domestic value chains and localisation objectives.

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Beyond these new manufacturing facilities, Toyota has invested a further R7,2 billion in production preparation for the ninth-generation Hilux, including advanced manufacturing technologies, production equipment and supplier tooling.

Furthermore, Toyota’s supplier partners have also invested an additional R2 billion in their own facilities, tooling and capability development.

Representing Toyota Motor Corporation, CEO of Toyota Tshusho Africa Division and Regional CEO of Toyota Africa, Shinichiro Otsuka, commended TSAM for its contribution to Toyota’s global manufacturing network and reiterated support: “Toyota South Africa Motors continues to demonstrate the quality, resilience and manufacturing excellence that define Toyota operations around the world.

The ninth-generation Hilux programme reflects Toyota Motor Corporation’s confidence in South Africa and our belief in the capability of its people.

The Prospecton facility is the oldest Toyota factory outside of Japan. It remains one of South Africa’s flagship manufacturing operations and produces some of the country’s most trusted and loved vehicles, including the Hilux, Corolla Cross, Fortuner and Hiace.

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Toyota has been part of South Africa’s social and economic fabric since 1961 and has maintained its position as the country’s leading automotive brand for 46 consecutive years.

Toyota’s investment extends beyond infrastructure and production.

Employing more than 8 500 people across its operations in South Africa and supporting thousands more through its supplier, logistics and dealer networks, Toyota remains committed to driving inclusive economic growth and contributing to South Africa’s developmental priorities.