Johannesburg, South Africa, April 2026 – FAW Trucks Southern Africa has officially launched the J7, its new premium flagship heavy-duty truck tractor, purpose-built for the rigorous demands of long-haul freight operations in Southern Africa.

The J7 represents the next evolutionary step in FAW’s premium long-haul offering, building directly on the proven success of the current JH6 500FT flagship. While the JH6 500FT has established FAW as a serious contender in the heavy-duty tractor segment over the past five years with its outstanding reliability, fuel efficiency and driver comfort, the J7 takes performance, efficiency and total cost of ownership to an entirely new level.

The J7 is available in two tailored variants to suit different operational needs:

• J7 28.550 FT/P – equipped with rear air suspension (ECAS) for sensitive cargo, reduced vibration and dynamic load flexibility.
• J7 28.550 FT/M – fitted with robust parabolic leaf springs for maximum durability and uncompromised strength on heavy-duty routes.

Key Specifications

• Engine: CA6DM3-55E5 12.52-litre 6-cylinder turbocharged diesel delivering 407 kW (546 hp) and 2 600 Nm of torque.
• Transmission: ZF 12-speed automated manual transmission (AMT) with integrated intarder for smooth shifting, superior fuel economy and enhanced auxiliary braking.
• Fuel System: Intelligent fuel management with dual tanks providing a combined 1 200-litre capacity (700 L + 500 L) for maximum range and fewer refuelling stops on long-haul corridors. The J7 delivers significantly improved fuel efficiency, resulting in a lower cost per kilometre compared with previous models in the segment.
• Cab: Spacious high-roof, flat-floor luxury sleeper cab with an extra-wide 810 mm berth, multi-functional air suspension seat, integrated fridge, automatic climate control and LED lighting for superior driver comfort and rest on extended journeys.
• Safety: Comprehensive suite including AEBS, ESC, FCW, LDWS, TPMS and an integrated camera and monitor system.
• Chassis & Suspension: High-tensile steel ladder-type chassis with choice of rear air suspension or parabolic leaf springs.
• Warranty: Up to 36 months or 600 000 km (whichever occurs first).
• B10 Service Life: 1.5 million kilometres.

The J7 is manufactured in a dedicated, state-of-the-art production facility in China – a world-class plant purpose-built exclusively for the J7 model. This dedicated manufacturing environment ensures the highest global standards of quality control, precision engineering and consistency, delivering a truck that meets the most stringent international benchmarks for durability, safety and performance.

In the South African commercial vehicle segment, total cost of ownership (TCO) remains one of the most critical factors for large fleet operators and long-haul businesses. The J7 has been engineered to deliver a step-change improvement in TCO through superior fuel efficiency, extended service intervals, reduced maintenance requirements and exceptional reliability. These advantages directly address the key pain points of big fleet owners – high fuel costs, downtime, driver retention and operational risk – enabling operators to achieve lower running costs per kilometre while maintaining maximum uptime on demanding African routes.

Early testing feedback from leading operators, including Crusader Logistics, has been overwhelmingly positive, with the company highlighting the J7’s combination of power, comfort and efficiency as a genuine game-changer for their long-haul fleet.

Mr Xin Huang, COO of FAW Trucks Southern Africa, noted: “Building on the proven success of the JH6 500, the J7 takes FAW’s premium heavy-duty offering to the next level, giving operators access to an even more advanced long-haul solution designed for modern transport demands.”

The J7 is now available through FAW Trucks Southern Africa’s extensive dealer network and is backed by 24/7 roadside assistance and full local parts and service support.

For more information or to arrange a demonstration, visit www.faw.co.za or contact your nearest FAW dealership.

FAW Trucks South Africa: Your Trusted Partner FAW Vehicle Manufacturers SA (PTY) Ltd, established in 1994, is a leading global player in the commercial vehicle manufacturing segment, committed to delivering cutting-edge solutions. With over 72 years of experience globally and as one of the only OEM brands to offer such a diverse and extensive range—from small to extra-heavy vehicles—FAW Trucks Southern Africa continues to be a trusted partner for businesses regionally and worldwide. Our comprehensive dealer network plays a vital role in ensuring that customers receive exceptional support and service throughout the African region. Local production is supported by a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in the Eastern Cape, fostering job creation and delivering high-quality commercial vehicles tailored to regional challenges.

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