Issuu

143 / SEPTEMBER–OCTOBER 2O26

Licensed by Dubai Development Authority

VEHICLES / TECH / TRANSPORTATION / LOGISTICS

CHARGED FOR CHANGE

Al Habtoor Motors focuses on the business case for green delivery by bringing new EV truck to the UAE

BACK IN COMMAND

2026 Jeep Commander test-driven

WELCOME

CHANGE IS IN THE AIR LOOK NOW; the UAE is changing. And what it’s changing into is not fashionable but inevitable. Time was, not long ago, when terms like sustainable transport, fleet electrification, green mobility and the like were thought of as fashionable in our region – concepts that looked conscientious on paper, glamourous in conversations at symposia, and safe to pay lip service to when dealing with governmental goals. This often resulted in tokenisms such as a single hybrid, BVO or electric vehicle in a fleet of 150, enabling the owner to tom-tom their “eco-friendly” credentials. In fact, any rare fleet owner talking elimination of fossil fuels in their fleet often used to be goaded on by competitors, snug in the expectation that they could make a competing entity commit professional hara-kiri by sacrificing profit at the altar of good intention, thus reducing competition in their market. There was a general consensus in the region that you could not have profit and sustainability together – that cleaning up was as good as closing up. But those days of fighting for fossil fuels while showing fashionable eco-friendliness are now gone. And inevitably so. As the world at large adopts green transport at scale, there

will be no manufacturer left behind that will defy the economies of scale to keep producing polluting ICE vehicles for one small corner of the globe. In this sense, the customers in the Middle East, or governments, did not decide the clean shift. The manufacturers did. And it’s not as if OEMs forgot their customers while jumping on the “green” bandwagon. The business case for electric vehicles is clear and evident today, and the most compelling reason for moving out of ICE vehicles – not any higher consideration. The OEMs showed the money and the business followed it. Emission reduction is just a by-product, though a very desirable one. Two cases in point are highlighted in this issue: Our deep dives into the new FUSO eCanter all-electric light-duty truck launched in the UAE this year by dealers Al Habtoor Motors, and the Farizon all-electric vans launched by Jameel Motors last year. Both show how it is profit that beats pollution, not any purity of intention. While Farizon by now is a documented case of long-term savings and lower TCO when adopting electric, the new eCanter plays by the same book, At T&FME, we are observing in real time the trickle of EV commercial vehicles hitting the region turning into a flood. And we look forward to recording this change on our changed, revamped, newly-designed pages.

ANIRBAN BAGCHI HEAD OF CONTENT ANIRBAN.BAGCHI@CPITRADEMEDIA.COM

TRUCK ANDFLEETME.COM

CONTENTS

26 COVER STORY CHARGED FOR CHANGE Al Habtoor Motors’ UAE launch of the all-electric FUSO eCanter puts the focus on a practical question for fleets: whether lower-emission urban delivery also delivers a stronger operating case

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026

CONTENTS

NETWORK NEWS FROM THE MONTH Volvo Trucks wins Truck of the Year Award for its electric range / New appointment at Aramex / Dubai’s RTA trials Glydway’s autonomous transit system / Budget KSA supplies Mitsubishi pick-ups to Jubail petrochemical project /18 Sinotruck HOWO units delivered in Kuwait / DSV electric trucks

LAUNCH

15 | NEW ALL-ELECTRIC LEXUS Japanese luxury marque brings first-ever fullyelectric SUV and sedan models to the UAE

18 | NEW JEEP COMMANDER

We test-drive the latest iteration of Jeep’s well-know SUV, as it makes a market return

FEATURES

24 | SITRAK AND GALADARI GROW Chinese truck giant’s Dubai visit highlights SITRAK’s partnership with its UAE distributor

36 | FARIZON BEYOND THE VAN Jameel Motors explains Farizon’s business case for electric in-city and last-mile delivery

AFTERMARKET

50 | TUSKER: THE JUMBO IN HAULING UAE-based Tusker Engineering is buoyed by demand for its 48CBM tipper trailer

58 | AUTOMECHANIKA PREVIEW Some highlights to look out for at Automechanika 2026, as it moves to its new home in Dubai Expo City

TRUCK ANDFLEETME.COM

Licensed by Dubai Development Authority

GROUP MANAGING DIRECTOR RAZ ISLAM raz.islam@cpitrademedia.com

233 SEPT-OCT 2026

+971 4 375 5471 DIRECTOR OF FINANCE & BUSINESS OPERATIONS SHIYAS KAREEM

OVERCOMING UNCERTAINTY

shiyas.kareem@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5474

HKA’S GEORGE MATTA ON THE DYNAMIC REALITIES OF CONSTRUCTION IN THE GCC IN 2026 AND HOW PROJECT DELIVERY CAN MOVE FORWARD EFFECTIVELY

EDITORIAL EDITORIAL DIRECTOR JASON SAUNDALKAR jason.saundalkar@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5475

ISSUE 167 R 2026 R-OCTOBE SEPTEMBE

HEAD OF CONTENT ANIRBAN BAGCHI anirban.bagchi@cpitrademedia.com +971 50 945 6963

COMMERCIAL PARTNERSHIPS GROUP SALES MANAGER BRIAN FERNANDES brian.fernandes@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 50 143 3872

STUDIO ART DIRECTOR SIMON COBON

CROSSINGROOVSER T O L A NDC

HITACHI

simon.cobon@cpitrademedia.com DESIGNER PERCIVAL MANALAYSAY percival.manalaysay@cpitrademedia.com

G GINEERIN -Y EA R EN TO DELI VER ON GI AN T’S 75 JA PA NESE MEETS A NEW VISI HERITAGEAN M ACHINES MORE TH

PHOTOGRAPHER MAKSYM PORIECHKIN maksym.poriechkin@cpitrademedia.com

MARKETING & OPERATIONS ISSUE

PHINSON MATHEW GEORGE phinson.george@cpitrademedia.com

O CTO B E R 2 0 2 6

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & MEDIA OPERATIONS

133

PRODUCTION & IT SPECIALIST JARRIS PEDROSO Focus

jarris.pedroso@cpitrademedia.com

AI changing how buildings are managed Design

Designing climateresponsive architecture

SOCIAL MEDIA EXECUTIVE FRANZIL DIAS

WEB DEVELOPMENT SENIOR DIGITAL MANAGER ABDUL BAEIS abdul.baeis@cpitrademedia.com

FO R T H E C O N ST R U CT I O N S P EC I A L I ST

Market

franzil.dias@cpitrademedia.com

FINANCE

FOUNDER

Licensed by Dubai Development Authority

+971 4 375 5499

Management

Engineering efficient energy infrastructure

The Data-Driven Construction Shift

CREDIT CONTROL EXECUTIVE CAMERON CARDOZO cameron.cardozo@cpitrademedia.com

Residential market in Ras Al Khaimah

Compass’ Aljufairi on how technology is changing conventional construction

DOMINIC DE SOUSA (1959-2015) 00_Cover.indd 1

22/10/2026 2:25:33 PM

GET THE

The publisher of this magazine has made every effort to ensure the content is accurate on the date of publication. The opinions and views expressed in the articles do not necessarily reflect the publisher and editor. The published material, adverts, editorials and all other content are published in good faith. No part of this publication or any part of the contents thereof may be reproduced, stored or transmitted in any form without the permission of the publisher in writing. Publication licensed by Dubai Development Authority to CPI Trade Publishing FZ LLC. CPI Trade Media. PO Box 13700, Dubai, UAE. +971 4 375 5470 cpitrademedia.com © Copyright 2026. All rights reserved.

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026

WHOLE PICTURE

ONLINE

POPULAR

FEATURES

TRANSPORTATION

MAN puts electric truck efficiency at centre of IAA Transportation 2026

New UD Trucks Kuzer: Cruising into light-duty FLEET

Volvo Trucks’ electric range named International Truck of the Year 2027

CARS

Chery UAE opens sixth showroom as UAE network expands

ZF: Driving the future of mobility uptime

INDUSTRY

Data from Udrive shows changing mobility habits of millennials

CARS

Nissan, AWR and Dubai Police create Drive with Awareness campaign

Al-Futtaim Famco: Driving fleet confidence with certified used trucks

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026

ONLINE

FEATURED NEWS

UPCOMING EVENTS

CARS

Bentley enters electric era with first EV All-new Torcal brings a 600km range, an 800V, 113kWh battery and 400kW rapid charging to the luxury of Bentley’s first fully electric model

NOVEMBER

Real Estate Leaders Summit 17 November 2026 Dubai, United Arab Emirates

BUS

Scania’s Irizar plug-in hybrid coach takes Sustainable Bus Award 2027 The Scania Irizar i6S Efficient PHEV has been recognised for combining electric driving capability with long-distance range, offering operators a loweremission option for coach operations

NOVEMBER

Specialist Construction Summit 18 November 2026 Dubai, United Arab Emirates

FLEET

Jameel Motors adds Farizon V7E electric cargo van to UAE line-up The 67kWh V7E offered up to 350km WLTP range and 6.9m³ of cargo capacity, expanding Farizon Auto’s electric commercial vehicle range in the UAE

NOVEMBER

Women in Construction Connect 25 November 2026 Dubai, United Arab Emirates

FLEET

EV momentum meets reality, reveals new Pwc eReadiness report Globally the existing charging infrastructure is falling behind the sales of electric vehicles

DECEMBER

Truck&Fleet Awards 10 December 2026 Dubai, United Arab Emirates

FLEET

OMATRA expands Saudi fleet presence Saudi distributor OMATRA has delivered 20 SINOTRUK MAX 4×2 tractor heads to a major local company, adding further heavy-duty capacity for transport operations across the Kingdom

FEBRUARY

Truck&Fleet ME Confex 03-04 February 2027 Dubai, United Arab Emirates

TRUCK ANDFLEETME.COM

Building the UAE Real Estate Market Opportunities, Challenges, Demands and the Vision of the Leaders

SPONSORS AND PARTNERS

Organisations supporting the summit

Our supporters, exhibitors, media brands and organisers help bring the industry together.

BRONZE PARTNER

SUPPORT PARTNER

PRESENTED BY

SUPPORT PARTNER

CONTENT

SPONSORSHIP

MARKETING

Jason Saundalkar

Raz Islam

Phinson Mathew George

Editorial Director +971 4 375 5475 jason.s@cpitrademedia.com

Priyanka Raina

Associate Editor +971 4 375 5475 priyanka.raina@cpitrademedia.com

Managing Director +971 4 375 5471 raz.islam@cpitrademedia.com

Director of Marketing & Media Operations +971 4 375 5476 phinson.george@cpitrademedia.com

SUPPORT PARTNER

NETWORK

VOLVO TRUCKS ELECTRIC RANGE WINS INTERNATIONAL TRUCK OF THE YEAR 2027 AWARD Second win for Volvo FH Electric and company’s eighth win overall at prestigious industry award, recognising viability of electric commercial transport OFFERING A DRIVING RANGE of up to 700km, Volvo Trucks’ heavy-duty electric lineup has been selected as International Truck of the Year 2027. This includes Volvo FH, FM, FMX Electric, and FH Aero Electric. The new electric range offers increased range, improved payload, and reduced charging time compared to previous models. It is designed for demanding regional and long-haul transport, city distribution, construction, and utility work.

TRUCK ANDFLEETME.COM

NETWORK

The jury praised the way Volvo has developed its electric portfolio beyond a single vehicle or application. They particularly highlighted how a combination of longer range, different cab and chassis configurations and different solutions can be tailored to a variety of transport assignments. “The Volvo Trucks winning range represents a major evolution of their battery-electric heavy-duty offering. With the new electric range, the company demonstrates how quickly battery-electric heavy-duty transport is moving from individual applications towards a comprehensive transport solution,” said Florian Engel, Chairman, International Truck of the Year. Roger Alm, President of Volvo

Roger Alm, President, Volvo Trucks, accepted the award and said the company is seeing great demand for its electric trucks, with order books almost full.

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026

Trucks, accepted the award last night during the prize ceremony at IAA Transportation in Hanover, Germany. “I am very proud that we once again get recognised for our electric solutions. We see a great demand for our new electric trucks, and the order book is almost full. This award proves that Volvo Trucks is a trusted industry leader within electromobility. The new range makes it possible for even more operations to choose zero tailpipe emission transport,” commented Alm. Since 2019, 7,000 electric Volvo trucks have driven 500 million kilometers worldwide. Today, nearly 2,000 customers in more than 50 countries trust electric Volvo trucks in their daily operations.

Volvo Trucks has a broad electric line-up with a total of eight electric truck models designed to handle a wide variety of transport assignments. During seven years of electrification, the company has built strong expertise in optimising the installed energy usage, charging, and service of electric trucks. The International Truck of the Year organisation was launched in 1977 and is made up of 24 commercial vehicle journalists from major trucking magazines throughout Europe. The annual award is given to the truck introduced in the market in the previous 12 months that has made the most significant contribution to road transport efficiency.

NETWORK

Aramex appoints Faysal El Hajjami as new CCO Aramex has appointed Faysal El Hajjami as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), with responsibility for its global commercial strategy, sales, pricing and strategic account management. El Hajjami joins Aramex from DHL Express, where he most recently served as Vice President Commercial for the Middle East and North Africa. In that role, he oversaw commercial strategy across a significant revenue portfolio and was a member of DHL’s Global Commercial Executive Committee, contributing to the company’s wider commercial strategy. He brings more than 25 years of experience in international express and logistics.

Dubai’s RTA begins trial of Glydways autonomous electric transit system Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has begun a four-week trial of the Glydways automated transit system at Bluewaters, testing autonomous electric vehicles operating on dedicated guideways. The system uses artificial intelligence technologies to manage vehicle movements and is designed to provide on-demand transport, with direct connections between departure and arrival points. The trial forms part of RTA’s efforts to integrate new mobility technologies into Dubai’s public transport network and improve first- and last-mile connectivity. The initiative follows a cooperation agreement between RTA and Glydways to establish Dubai’s first automated transit network programme of its kind. The project aims to complement existing public transport services, expand mobility options for residents and visitors, and improve connections to Metro stations, tourist attractions and major destinations across the emirate.

BUDGET SUPPLIES MITSUBISHI PICKUPS TO JUBAIL REFINERY CLIENT Vehicle rental company Budget Saudi Arabia has supplied more than 60 Mitsubishi L200 double-cab pick-ups to a major refinery and petrochemical company operating in Jubail, strengthening its fleet offering to the Kingdom’s industrial sector. The four-door L200s will be used across the customer’s activities in Jubail, one of Saudi’s most important centres for petrochemicals, refining and heavy industry. The deployment forms part of the fleet support required for operations that depend on reliable transport for personnel, equipment and siterelated activities. The L200 is a body-on-frame pick-up designed for commercial, industrial and off-road use.

TRUCK ANDFLEETME.COM

NETWORK

Al Sultan & Khalaf delivers 18 SINOTUCK HOWO units to Kuwait customer Al Sultan & Khalaf Trading Co. has delivered 18 SINOTRUK HOWO NX heavy-duty trucks to a customer in Kuwait, adding another batch of vehicles from the Chinese manufacturer to the country’s commercial vehicle fleet. The delivered trucks are HOWO NX 6x4 models carrying NX 400 badges. The vehicles are intended for heavy-duty commercial and industrial applications, although details of the customer and the final body configurations have not been disclosed. Al Sultan & Khalaf is SINOTRUK’s authorised dealer in Kuwait, handling vehicle sales, spare parts and after-sales support. Its commercial vehicle portfolio includes HOWO and SITRAK models, with configurations covering tractor units, tippers, cargo trucks, tankers and concrete mixers.

DSV JOINS FORCES WITH HALA AUTO AND EVIQ TO ELECTRIFY RIYADH LOGISTICS FLEET DSV has partnered with Hala Auto and EVIQ to introduce electric cargo vans and trucks into its logistics fleet in Riyadh, bringing together commercial vehicle supply and charging infrastructure to support the transition towards lower-emission transport operations. Under the agreement, Hala Auto will supply electric commercial vehicles tailored to DSV’s transportation requirements, while EVIQ will develop charging stations at DSV depots and provide access to its wider public charging network. The initial deployment will focus on electrifying part of DSV’s Riyadh fleet. The three companies will coordinate vehicle selection, charging infrastructure deployment and operational requirements to integrate electric vehicles into existing logistics activities. For DSV, the partnership is intended to lower total fleet ownership costs while reducing emissions associated with its transportation operations.

CMY

iCAUR opens new Abu Dhabi showroom in Marina Mall Chery Group-backed Chinese premium new energy vehicle brand iCAUR, has expanded its presence in the UAE capital with the opening of a new showroom at Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi. Located within one of Abu Dhabi’s key retail destinations, the new showroom marks another milestone in iCAUR’s UAE growth strategy and further strengthens the brand’s presence in the capital, in partnership with Omeir Bin Youssef & Sons. Spanning 225 sqm, the showroom is designed to deliver an engaging and accessible customer journey, enabling visitors to experience iCAUR’s growing portfolio of premium new energy vehicles.

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026

LAUNCHES

LEXUS GOES ALL-ELECTRIC WITH NEW EV SEDAN AND SUV First fully-electric models from Japanese luxury marque break cover in UAE LEXUS HAS GONE ALL-ELECTRIC with its first battery powered models being launched in the UAE, marking the first time the Japanese luxury brand has offered fully battery-electric vehicles in the local market as UAE Lexus dealer Al-Futtaim introduce the Lexus RZ500e and ES500e to the country. The launch expands Lexus UAE’s electrified range across the luxury SUV and saloon segments. The RZ500e is built on a dedicated battery-electric platform, while the new-generation ES is available as either the all-electric ES500e or the ES350h hybrid. Jacques Brent, Managing Director of Al-Futtaim Lexus, said: “Lexus has more than 20 years of experience in electrification, bringing green mobility into the luxury space ever since the first Lexus RX hybrid SUV back in 2005, and our focus is on using that expertise to give customers more choice without compromising on the experience they expect from the brand.

TRUCK ANDFLEETME.COM

LAUNCHES

“The RZ500e, ES500e and ES350h offer customers different ways to enjoy electrified driving, while maintaining the performance, luxury and quality that have always defined Lexus.” The RZ500e uses two electric motors to deliver 375hp, with Lexus’ DIRECT4 all-wheel-drive system distributing power between the front and rear wheels to support traction and handling. The 74.6kWh battery provides a claimed WLTP driving range of up to 460km, while acceleration from 0–100km/h takes 4.6 seconds. Charging options include a 22kW three-phase AC onboard charger and CCS2 DC fast charging. Lexus states that charging from 10% to 100% takes approximately four hours using a 22kW AC charger. With a 150kW DC

charger, the battery can be charged from 10% to 80% in around 30 minutes. The cabin includes ventilated front seats, heated front and rear seats, and a 13-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound System. Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 provides driver assistance and safety functions. The RZ500e is offered in six single-tone and four two-tone exterior colour combinations, with three interior colour options. The new-generation ES adds two electrified powertrains to Lexus’ UAE line-up. The batteryelectric ES500e produces 338hp and features all-wheel drive, with an approximate WLTP range of 465km. The alternative ES350h hybrid delivers 244hp and is available with front-wheel or all-wheel drive.

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026

Both the Lexus RZ500e SUV and ES500e sedan models offer twin electric motors, delivering 375hp and 338hp respectively, with ranges of up to 465km.

Lexus quotes fuel consumption of approximately 27.7km/litre, which it says represents a 15% improvement over the outgoing generation. Its power output is stated to be 29hp higher than that of the previous model. The ES cabin features multimedia and head-up displays, with controls and information positioned for driver access. An available 17-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound System provides the audio system option.

HIGHLIGHTS Power

375bhp (RZ500e)

Battery capacity

74.6kWh

Performance

0-100km/h - 4.6 seconds

Charge time

30 minutes – 10-80% (150 kW DC)

LAUNCHES

RAM BRINGS HEMI V8 BACK ON NEW 1500 PICK-UP TRUCKS

NISSAN’S NEW NAVARA PRO TARGETS ME PICK-UP SEGMENT

UAE dealer Al-Futtaim announces availability of legendary powerful engine in response to customer demand for greater powertrain choice

China-built Navara PRO is Nissan’s first export pick-up from its Chinese Jv, offering versatility for fleets and lifestyle buyers

The 5.7-litre HEMI V8 engine returns to the UAE in the RAM 1500 range of pick-up trucks, with Al-Futtaim, the official UAE RAM Trucks distributor, confirming that the manufacturer is bringing back the powertrain to cater to popular demand.The HEMI V8 is now offered on the RAM Rebel, Limited and Limited Night Edition, with all three variants featuring eTorque mild-hybrid technology. The return is being positioned as a response to feedback from the UAE RAM community, under the campaign message “We Heard You”. Carlos Montenegro, Managing Director – Al-Futtaim Trading Enterprises, said: “Our UAE owners are part of the RAM family. They inspire us, challenge us, and help shape the future of the brand. The return of the legendary HEMI V8 is a celebration of this trusted relationship and of everything that makes RAM, RAM.” The 5.7-litre V8, producing 395bhp of power, returns with its established combination of power and torque, while eTorque is intended to support efficiency and drivability across a range of operating conditions. RAM says the powertrain is suited to applications including towing and off-road driving, as well as regular road use.

Nissan is introducing the all-new Navara PRO pickup truck to the Middle East, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s global strategy as the first Nissan commercial vehicle manufactured in China to be exported to the region. Positioned as a dual-purpose pickup for both commercial fleet operators and retail customers, the Navara PRO continues the nameplate’s long standing reputation for durability and versatility in Middle Eastern markets, where pickup trucks remain central to construction, logistics and lifestyle use cases. The model arrives as part of Nissan’s broader product offensive in the region, which has recently included new SUVs and crossovers aimed at strengthening the brand’s presence across multiple segments. Within this strategy, the Navara PRO is expected to play a key role in reinforcing Nissan’s position in the highly competitive pickup market. Engineered with two internal combustion engine variants, the Navara PRO has been developed to deliver strong performance and adaptability across demanding operating environments. Nissan says the model combines rugged capability with improved refinement, allowing it to serve both heavyduty commercial applications and everyday private use.

HIGHLIGHTS

Engine

5.7 litre, V8

Engine

Dual ICE variants

Power

395 bhp

Manufacturing

Zhengzhou Nissan joint venture, China

Model

RAM 1500 pick-up

Design concept

Rugged Tech styling, dual purpose versatility

TRUCK ANDFLEETME.COM

TEST DRIVE

BACK IN COMMAND Jason Saundalkar gets behind the wheel of the new 2026 Jeep Commander Overland and finds the second-generation model a well sorted vehicle for everyday life in the UAE THE JEEP COMMANDER is a fairly new nameplate within the Jeep lineup; the first-generation Commander (XK) was introduced in 2005 and discontinued just five years later. It was a mid-size SUV that was the brand’s first attempt at the third-row SUV market. Following the end of its production run, Sergio Marchionne (then CEO of parent Chrysler) famously said: “That vehicle was unfit for human

consumption. We sold some. But I don’t know why people bought them.” I always thought that was an overly harsh criticism of the vehicle. A neighbour in the late 2000s had a 2008 Commander finished in white with the 4.7L V8 and was equipped with a full time 4WD system. Granted, despite its fairly large proportions and boxy design, interior room was surprisingly limited - my

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026

The latest generation Jeep Commander, a mid-size unibodydesign crossover fitting into the D-segment SUV category, has plenty of street presence, and Jeep’s distinct silhouette and design language.

neighbour’s young kids could only really spend a limited amount of time in the third row before they started complaining. It was also quite heavy and didn’t give great fuel economy but I could say the same of many heavy V8 SUVs of the same era. Driving dynamics were admittedly a weak point compared to other unibody mid-size SUVs, with sluggish steering and pronounced body roll.

TEST DRIVE

On the plus side, when my neighbour and I decided to explore the UAE’s mountainous areas and dunes on the weekends, it impressed with its ability to tackle rough trails and most of the dunes that we’d throw it at. Its handsome and imposing looks also won it brownie points; on the roads and highways, only full-size Japanese SUVs had more presence and commanded (see what I did there?) more priority from other road users. By the time my neighbour moved, he’d had it for six years and didn’t have plans to move onto another vehicle. The community-run Jeep Commander web forum that he’d told me about also remains active to this day, and people still discuss buying now decades old examples of the old bruiser. On that basis, I maintain that Mr. Marchionne was perhaps a bit too harsh about the first-generation Commander. Flash-forward to present day, when my colleague Anirban Bagchi, Head of Content of this fine magazine asked if I wanted to have a go at the MY 2026 Jeep Commander, my curiosity was piqued. NOT THE COMMANDER OF OLD The second-generation Jeep Commander was introduced in 2022 and is quite different to its predecessor. The modern Commander though still a mid-size unibody design is now a crossover (fitting into the D-segment SUV category), and is actually based on an extended version of the Jeep Compass platform. As the Compass and the smaller Renegade are no longer sold in the UAE, the Commander takes up the mantle as the entry-level offering in the Jeep line-up. It’s available in 2-grades – Overland and Limited+, with the Truck & Fleet Middle East tester being an Overland MY 2026, finished in ‘Jazz Blue Pearl Coat’ paired with a contrastcolour black roof and side view mirrors. While this new Commander has lost the outright aggressive, boxy design

and nearly upright windscreen of its predecessor, it remains a handsome vehicle with clean lines. It’s also easily identifiable as a Jeep product, thanks to its seven-bar grille. With regards to dimensions, this Commander has a slightly shorter wheelbase and length, and is also lighter than its predecessor. The more rounded looks and lighter weight should pay dividends with the vehicle’s driving dynamics, fuel efficiency and wind noise (we’ll get to all this later on in the review). On the inside, Jeep has transformed the new Commander; in terms of

Inside the cabin, the new Jeep Commander provides a premium experience, with soft touch surfaces, glossy black finishes and smooth plastic trim - all of which make it better in every way than its forebearer.

design, layout, material selection and usage of interior space, it is better in every way compared to its forebearer. First-row occupants get the most premium experience in terms of soft touch surfaces (the steering wheel is lovely in hand!), glossy black finishes, and smooth plastic trim. You’ll have to feel around below your waistline in the cabin (under the dashboard for example) to find lower grade hardwearing plastic in the front row. In the second row, less premium materials are a little more visible; the rear of the centre console (where the AC vents, AC controls and USB charging ports for second row passengers are located) looks quite basic in black plastic, and may pickup scuffs and scratches over time. Third row passengers will also find themselves flanked by swathes of black plastics, and while there are some creature comforts on offer such as cup holders and USB charging ports, dedicated AC vents are amiss. Third-row seating is again only for small children for short journeys. That said, this reviewer is convinced that only full size SUVs really have

TRUCK ANDFLEETME.COM

TEST DRIVE

sufficient space to make third row seating liveable on longer trips. BUTTONS, BEAUTIFUL BUTTONS Living with the 2026 Commander over four days was a treat because unlike so many modern vehicles in this price range that force you to use a touchscreen and UX to do even basic things, the Commander features plenty of individual buttons and controls. Want to adjust the AC? There’s a stack of buttons for that under the centre air vents. Want to adjust the volume or change audio sources? There’s rocker buttons behind the steering wheel, and master control knobs on the centre console near the AC controls. Want to engage 4WD low or switch drive modes? There’s buttons and a toggle selector near the gear selector. Need to adjust your wing mirrors or program your seating position? The controls are where you’d expect them – on the door itself. I really hope other brands take note and bring back physical controls because apart from making the vehicle easier to live with, they are safer; you can build muscle memory with physical

It’s a relaxing steer on highways and city roads with strong AC performance, good sound insulation, competent adaptive cruise control, a plethora of driving aids and precise steering” controls, and don’t need to actually look at them to do what you need. It’s impossible to do this with touchscreens, particularly when it isn’t a good one and misses inputs or the UX itself is a mess. Outside of the convenience and safety aspects, physical controls and their tactility can engage human senses in a way touchscreens simply aren’t able to. Speaking of screens, the Commander does have a couple: a 10.25-inch instrument cluster for the rev counter, speed, trips etc, and a 10.1-inch infotainment system for navigation and ancillary vehicle controls. The instrument cluster can be configured in a multitude of ways to present plenty of information, and while it works well and is legible even in bright sunlight,

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026

On the move, the new Jeep Commander’s well-tuned suspension offers great ride quality, even over rough or broken surfaces, with a relaxed steering feel on highways and city roads, strong AC performance and good sound insulation.

the display itself is not quite as sharp as this reviewer would like it to be. In contrast, the 10.1-inch centre infotainment screen is razor sharp, and responsive, making it easy to interact with the vehicle’s Uconnect system. Outside of using Uconnect for navigation, there’s not a huge need to poke through the UX (since frequently used functions have physical controls). I reckon most users will likely take advantage of the system’s wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto functionality and have their phone’s UX up on the display instead of Uconnect – wireless CarPlay worked an absolute treat during the test period. ON THE MOVE In the UAE, the second-generation Jeep Commander is only offered with a single power train, a 2-litre GME T4 Hurricane I4 turbo (272hp and 400Nm of torque), and it is mated to a 9-speed ZF transmission. Power is sent to the wheels via an AWD system. The 2L turbo has more than enough oomph to motivate the modern Commander. Step on it from a standstill and the Jeep moves off the line with authority; 0-100km/h feels like it’s in the high 7-second range, and around town, there’s enough passing power for quick overtaking manoeuvres. The motor and transmission are a fantastic pairing; the former revs smoothly and eagerly, and doesn’t sound strained even up to redline, while the gearbox does a fantastic job of keeping the motor in its powerband. Acceleration does drop off above 140km/h but considering current speed limits and

TEST DRIVE

how busy roads are in the UAE, this is unlikely to be an issue for most. Over the four day test period which comprised city and highway driving (including a lot of crawling/idling in horrendous traffic), fuel economy was 9km/l over 245km of distance driven (with start/stop disabled), which this reviewer thought was reasonable. The Commander features a 61l fuel tank (a full tank will cost you Dh261 at today’s Dh4.28 per litre) and doing a bit of math on the assumption that 9km/l is what you average because of road conditions I described earlier, you should get around 549km of range. Should you use start/stop and have clearer roads, I’ve no doubt the Commander will give you noticeably more range. The Jeep’s suspension is also well tuned and gives the vehicle great ride quality over rough/broken surfaces, though being a heavy and tall(ish) SUV without active dampers and air suspension, there is a bit of body roll if you attack corners or engage in

spirited driving. Overall, it’s a relaxing steer on highways and city roads with strong AC performance, good sound insulation, competent adaptive cruise control, a plethora of driving aids and precise steering. Parking the vehicle and manoeuvring in tight spaces are easy as well, thanks to the driver aids, shorter wheelbase, and light steering. With the AWD system, 4WD features and different drive modes, the Commander won’t be challenged by trips to the beach and light- to-medium off-roading, however its limited ground clearance

Equipped with an All-wheel Drive system, 4WD features and different drive modes, the new Jeep Commander is a capable light-tomedium off-roader, though limited ground clearance restricts serious off-roading.

2026 JEEP COMMANDER OVERLAND Engine

GME T4 Hurricane I4 turbo

Displacement

2,000 cc

Transmission

9-speed ZF transmission

Maximum power

272hp

Maximum torque

400Nm

Drive train

All-wheel-drive system

Fuel tank capacity

61-litre

may pose challenges in rougher terrain and will require careful driving/ planning. Small displacement turbo engines are usually more susceptible to heat-related performance losses than large displacement natural aspirated motors, so I would recommend not indulging in serious off-roading during peak summer months in the UAE. CONCLUSION: PLENTY TO LIKE Jeep’s done a great job with this second generation Commander. Starting at Dh159,900 for the Overland spec, the 2026 Commander is a balanced vehicle that offers good value for money, whether you look at it in isolation or compare it to competitors in the market. There’s plenty to like including its premium feeling cabin, potent technology package and driver aids, solid driving dynamics, and reasonable fuel economy. It’ll handle the daily commute, get you to the beach on the weekends, and indulge your more adventurous side when you feel the need to hit mountain trails or sand dunes.

TRUCK ANDFLEETME.COM

FEATURE

SITRAK AND GALADARI DRIVE UAE GROWTH Chinese truck giant’s chairman’s Dubai visit and customer handovers highlight SITRAK’s partnership with its UAE distributor, as operators point to reliability, efficiency and after-sales support 24

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026

GALADARI TRUCKS & HEAVY Equipment (GTHE) has reinforced its partnership with Chinese heavyduty truck manufacturer SITRAK through a customer handover ceremony in Dubai, attended by the truck maker’s chairman and senior representatives who travelled from China for the occasion. Held at JA Lake View Hotel earlier this year, the event brought together representatives of both companies and UAE customers to mark recent vehicle deliveries and discuss developments in the regional heavy-duty truck market. A display of SITRAK trucks also gave attendees an opportunity to examine the manufacturer’s vehicles and engage directly with its management team. The chairman’s attendance underlined the importance of the UAE market to the relationship between SITRAK and Galadari,

which was appointed the brand’s UAE distributor in 2021. Since then, Galadari has worked to expand SITRAK’s presence in the country’s commercial vehicle sector, supporting vehicle sales with genuine parts, maintenance and after-sales services. For fleet operators, the relationship between truck supplier and distributor extends beyond the initial purchase. Vehicle reliability, fuel consumption, parts availability and the speed of workshop support all influence operating costs and the ability to keep trucks productive. These considerations featured in customer feedback at the Dubai gathering, where one transport operator highlighted its experience with both Galadari and SITRAK. Pratik Padlikar, sales and marketing manager at Utmost Gulf General Transport, said his company had been dealing

FEATURE

with Galadari for 15 years and had purchased multiple SITRAK trucks through the distributor. “We have been dealing with Galadari for the past 15 years. We have purchased many SITRAK trucks from them. The trucks are extremely reliable. They can perform in the toughest conditions in the UAE. They have good performance with less fuel consumption as compared to others. This gives us a low cost of operations,” Padlikar said. His comments point to the importance of balancing vehicle performance with whole-life operating costs in the UAE’s demanding transport environment. Trucks operating in the region must contend with high temperatures and intensive working schedules, making dependable performance and efficient fuel use important considerations for businesses seeking to manage expenditure across their fleets. IMPRESSIVE AFTER-SALES SUPPORT Padlikar also emphasised the contribution of after-sales support to his company’s experience. For operators running commercial vehicles, access to replacement parts and responsive technical assistance can help limit downtime and maintain service commitments. A truck’s purchase price is only one element of its cost over the period it remains in operation; maintenance requirements and the time spent out of service also affect fleet productivity. “Regarding the after-sales service, the team is very supportive. The spare parts are always available in case of any requirement. The team is always responsive and quick to respond to any emergency need. We are very satisfied with their customer service,” Padlikar said. “We truly value our partnership and look forward to strengthening our relationship and doing more

business together in the future.” The testimonial reflects the role of distributor support in developing customer relationships beyond individual transactions. Galadari’s combination of vehicle sales, parts supply, maintenance and after-sales assistance provides the framework through which it supports SITRAK customers in the UAE. The ceremony also offered an opportunity for customers to meet SITRAK’s senior management and discuss the market directly with the

The senior management from SITRAK and GTHE present the ceremonial keys to a new fleet of trucks to important customers Utmost Gulf (above) and Oryx Mix (below) in an event at the JA Lake View Hotel in Dubai.

manufacturer. Such engagement can help suppliers understand operators’ requirements while giving customers access to decisionmakers as their fleet needs evolve. The event concluded with meetings involving the SITRAK chairman, the manufacturer’s representatives and Galadari’s team. The companies exchanged gifts and reaffirmed their intention to continue collaborating and pursue further growth in the UAE heavy-duty truck market. For SITRAK and Galadari, the handovers represent more than the delivery of vehicles. They provide a platform to strengthen customer relationships, demonstrate the manufacturer’s products and reinforce the distributor’s role in supporting trucks throughout their working lives. As competition in the commercial vehicle sector continues, the ability to combine suitable vehicles with reliable service and parts support remains an important consideration for fleet operators evaluating their next investment.

TRUCK ANDFLEETME.COM

COVER STORY

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026

COVER STORY

CHARGED FOR CHANGE

Al Habtoor Motors’ UAE launch of the all-electric FUSO eCanter puts the focus on a practical question for fleets: whether lower-emission urban delivery also delivers a stronger operating case

TRUCK ANDFLEETME.COM

COVER STORY

The FUSO eCanter launch supports the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 ambitions and growing shift toward electric mobility, says Al Habtoor Motors, the FUSO dealer in the country.

ADOPTING THE LATEST WAY to do anything is usually seen as a double-edged sword, especially in the business of transport and logistics, and more specifically in the Middle East. The trade-offs – usually a long-term environmental or social benefit at the cost of immediate profit – have often been cited as barriers to adoption of the latest global best practices, especially when it comes to green transport with electric commercial vehicles. But a new cohort of EV commercial vehicles is breaking this long-held view by making the business case for electric – and the FUSO eCanter, launched in the UAE this year by its dealer Al Habtoor Motors, is a leading example of trucks that present a compelling case for going electric in commercial applications. Unveiled at Al Habtoor Polo Resort in Dubai earlier this year under the theme “The Future of Commercial Mobility Electrified”, the next-generation, fully electric light-duty truck is aimed at urban logistics and last-mile delivery. Its significance will be measured in routes completed, loads carried and the cost of keeping trucks and fleets working.

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026

For Al Habtoor Motors, the timing reflects both national direction and a developing fleet-level calculation. “The FUSO eCanter launch in the UAE supports the country’s Net Zero 2050 ambitions and growing shift toward electric mobility,” says a senior management representative from Al Habtoor Motors. “With diesel prices increasing rapidly compared with electricity prices, electric trucks can offer a compelling operating-cost advantage and offer better Total Cost of Ownership.” He sees urban delivery as a logical place to begin. “Urban delivery fleets are an ideal starting point, enabling practical deployment while strengthening local expertise with Al Habtoor Motors and the eCanter, one of the world’s best electric trucks made in Japan by FUSO,” he says, adding the the task is to identify work that suits an electric vehicle’s range, charging requirements and payload. GLOBAL PLATFORM, LOCAL ADOPTION The eCanter has accumulated more than eight million kilometres worldwide, including in Japan, Europe, the United States and other Asian, Australian and Latin

COVER STORY

With diesel prices increasing rapidly compared with electricity prices, electric trucks can offer a compelling operating-cost advantage and offer better Total Cost of Ownership”

American markets. Japan’s Yamato Corporation uses it for e-commerce and last-mile deliveries. That global experience matters, but local conditions still need to be addressed. The UAE’s high ambient temperatures place particular demands on battery management and cabin cooling, especially for vehicles expected to work through long shifts. The Al Habtoor spokesperson says the eCanter has been tested in the country in summer conditions of up to 50°C, with assessments covering air-conditioning performance and battery safety. “In the UAE, the eCanter has been successfully tested in extreme summer conditions, including temperatures of up to 50°C,” he says. “These tests assessed air-conditioning performance and battery safety. Its liquid-cooled battery system helps regulate battery temperature, supporting reliable performance and safety in the high ambient temperatures of our region.” Route length, payload, stop-start intensity and auxiliary equipment affect energy consumption. One of the eCanter’s central selling points is that it offers a range of configurations, rather than asking every customer to adapt to one standard electric-truck specification. The UAE portfolio includes medium and large battery options of 82.6kWh and 123.9kWh, while the broader vehicle range spans different wheelbases and gross vehicle weight ratings up to 8.55 tonnes. The launch material also identifies standard and wide cab options, with widths of 1,695mm and 1,995mm respectively.

The choice affects range and payload: a larger battery supports longer routes but adds weight and charging demands, while a smaller one can suit predictable routes with nightly depot returns. “Unlike other electric trucks in the market where the competitors offer one wheelbase and one GVW configuration, the eCanter portfolio is made very similar to the diesel truck portfolio, making sure a variety of GVW and wheelbase options are available to customers,” the spokesperson says. “To have optimum range as well as payload, modular battery sizes are offered.” He stresses that battery choice must follow the work. “One size fits all doesn’t work with batteries as larger batteries suit longer routes but add weight, potentially reducing payload, and require more charging capacity or

TRUCK ANDFLEETME.COM

COVER STORY

The FUSO eCanter’s electric axle is claiimed to delivers a power and efficiency figure that is amongst the best in the business when it comes to the distance covered for each unit of electricity used.

time; hence different battery size can be chosen based on applications.” Wheelbases from roughly 2,400mm to 4,750mm and gross vehicle weights from 4.25 to 8.55 tonnes extend the choice. A Power Take-Off system supports specialist bodies such as tippers, cranes and temperature-controlled vans, extending the potential applications beyond parcel and retail delivery. Al Habtoor and FUSO remind customers, however, that operators should confirm body compatibility and safety equipment for their chosen configuration. ECONOMICS OF ELECTRIFICATION The business case is strongest where vehicles cover regular urban distances, return to a depot and charge overnight. Al Habtoor says the eCanter’s electric axle delivers a power and efficiency figure that is amongst the best in the business when it comes to the distance covered for each unit of electricity used. This easily leads to cost savings when compared to ICE trucks using conventional fossil fuels. “The eCanter’s highly efficient eAxle delivers energy efficiency of approximately 2.5 km/kWh, meaning it can travel around 2.5km on each kWh of electricity. Based on

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026

current energy costs, this can generate savings of at least Dh40–50 per100 km compared with a diesel vehicle with overnight AC charging,” the spokesperson explains. An electric drivetrain has fewer moving parts than a diesel powertrain, potentially reducing routine service requirements. According to Al Habtoor, energy and maintenance savings over five to eight years could potentially offset the higher initial cost, while quieter, more comfortable driving and zero tailpipe emissions are other key highlights.

Unlike other electric trucks in the market, the eCanter portfolio is made very similar to the diesel truck portfolio, with a variety of GVW and wheelbase options”

COVER STORY

CHARGING PART OF THE PRODUCT The eCanter supports AC and DC charging using the CCS standard. The launch material gives a 20% to 80% DC charging time of approximately 24 to 39 minutes, depending on battery configuration. Hoever, as always with electric vehicles, actual times depend on the charger, available power, battery state and site conditions. Al Habtoor Motors says it works with customers to assess daily mileage, routes, vehicle utilisation and parking arrangements. “We work with customers closely to assess their operating needs including daily mileage, routes, vehicle utilisation and parking arrangements and recommend charging solutions suited to their use case,” the spokesperson says. “This can include guidance on charger selection and installation planning, as well as route and charging schedules that fit the fleet’s operations. Choosing the truck and designing the charging routine must be connected decisions.” Local service capability is significant for operators whose vehicles generate revenue on the road. FUSO and Al Habtoor Motors have trained workshop staff from basic awareness through routine electric-truck maintenance to specialists qualified for high-voltage systems, live-line work and batteries. Fast-moving

Dealer Al Habtoor Motors says it provides full guidance for customers on charger selection, installation planning, route selection for optimal delivery operations, as well as charging schedules - providing support for fleet operations with the eCanter.

maintenance parts are stocked locally, with diagnostic support and roadside assistance available. “eCanter vehicles are sold with comprehensive service packages/contracts, ensuring full coverage and high uptime,” explains the spokesperson, adding: “Al Habtoor Motors’ workshops are equipped with dedicated quick service eVehicle bays to ensure high uptime and faster service delivery, together with AC and DC charging infrastructure for fast charge times.” Early adopters will judge the truck on repair times, parts availability and confidence in safe specialist work, as well as energy consumption. ADOPTION THROUGH EVIDENCE According to Al Habtoor, the strongest initial opportunities are in urban last-mile delivery and municipal services. “These operations typically follow predictable routes, return to a central depot and can charge vehicles overnight, making it easier to plan around the eCanter’s range and charging needs. Beyond specific applications, we are also targeting large corporate fleets with their own sustainability goals and a long-term commitment to electrification. “We are seeing strong interest from customers exploring a move to electric vehicles. At present, the

TRUCK ANDFLEETME.COM

COVER STORY

Adoption is likely to accelerate as a viable charging infrastructure is set up, and customers use the truck and come to know the positive effects of energy and maintenance costs on Total Cost of Ownership, projects Al Habtoor.

customers actively implementing this transition are mainly large fleets with clear sustainability targets and long-term electrification plans. As electric trucks become more established and their operational benefits are demonstrated, we expect more large and medium-sized fleets to follow.”

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026

The challenge is to turn interest into repeatable deployments. Fleet managers need data on real-world range, payload, charging time, costs and availability, plus clarity on shift patterns and depot electrical capacity. A pilot can establish this on the operator’s own routes. Al Habtoor Motors is not setting out a specific sales-volume forecast for the next three to five years. Instead, the company says the priority is to demonstrate performance in real-world conditions and build confidence. “Significant volumes will depend on convenient, reliable depot charging; practical support with vehicle, route planning and a clear business case over the vehicle’s lifetime.” As customers know the effect of energy and maintenance costs on TCO, adoption could accelerate. For FUSO, the eCanter is an early step in a longer-term approach to lower-emission commercial transport. Future solutions will be shaped by customer needs, market development and charging infrastructure readiness. The launch gives operators another option and a reason to assess which work could move first. For larger fleets, pilot results can guide phased expansion. The measure of success will be practical: trucks completing their routes, carrying the required loads, charging within available windows and returning to service with dependable local support. If those conditions align with the economics, the eCanter could help make electrification a fleet decision grounded as much in productivity as in sustainability.

COVER STORY

Is your fleet ready for an electric truck? The key question is whether the eCanter’s daily job fits its battery, payload and charging window. A route audit should record distance, stops, load, auxiliary equipment and return-to-base times. This helps estimate energy demand and identify a suitable battery configuration. Next, assess payload before comparing range. The larger 123.9kWh battery may be appropriate for longer duties, while the 82.6kWh option could make better sense for shorter urban rounds. But battery

size is only one part of the calculation: body type, gross vehicle weight, wheelbase and cab width all affect the final vehicle specification. Specialist bodies, including refrigerated vans, cranes and tippers, need particular scrutiny because their equipment can add weight or draw energy. Depot readiness is just as important. Operators should check parking arrangements, electrical capacity, charger installation requirements and the time available between shifts. Overnight AC charging may be

sufficient for predictable daily routes; DC charging can offer more flexibility, but its value depends on the fleet’s schedule and site capability. Charging plans should be built around actual vehicle utilisation rather than assumed availability. Finally, compare the whole operating cost, not just energy consumption. Include the vehicle price, financing, electricity, maintenance, charger costs, service cover, downtime and expected years of use. The estimated AED40–50 saving per 100km cited

by Al Habtoor Motors is a useful benchmark, but each operator should calculate its own result using real mileage and energy tariffs. Driver feedback should also cover cab comfort, route changes and practical charging routines during normal shifts. A controlled pilot can validate assumptions before a larger order. Monitor energy use, charging, payload and uptime on a representative route. The best first electric truck is the one that reliably completes a defined job and demonstrates a credible lifetime business case.

TRUCK ANDFLEETME.COM

3 - 4 FEBRUARY 2027

SPECIALIST CONFERENCE + EXHIBITION SHOWCASE Dubai Studio City – Sound Stage 3

CONFERENCE ENQUIRIES

SPONSORSHIP ENQUIRIES

Anirban Bagchi

Noman Aslam

Head of Content +971 50 945 6963 anirban.bagchi@cpitrademedia.com

Portfolio Director +971 4 375 5478 noman.aslam@cpitrademedia.com

EXHIBITION ENQUIRIES

MARKETING ENQUIRIES

Brian Fernandes

Phinson Mathew George

Group Sales Manager +971 4 375 5478 brian.fernandes@cpitrademedia.com

Director of Marketing & Media Operations +971 4 375 5476 phinson.george@cpitrademedia.com

SPONSORS & PARTNERS

SILVER PARTNER

EXCLUSIVE TYRE PARTNER

Complimentary

MEDIA PARTNER

FEATURE

FARIZON BUILDS BEYOND THE VAN

Jameel Motors is positioning Farizon around fleet economics, customer-led product development and the support needed to make commercial electrification work in the UAE

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026

FEATURE

TRUCK ANDFLEETME.COM

FEATURE

Eddy Al Chaar, General Manager, Operations, Farizon, at Jameel Motors, is spearheading Farizon’s customerled approach in the UAE market.

FOR COMMERCIAL FLEETS, going electric involves more than choosing a vehicle. Route patterns, payload, charging access, uptime and maintenance all determine whether an electric van makes financial sense. Farizon and Jameel Motors are building their UAE proposition around that wider calculation. “Farizon was born electric,” says Eddy Al Chaar, General Manager, Operations, Farizon at Jameel Motors. “They designed the vehicle to be from the beginning R&D and everything as an EV commercial, van, passenger, light duty truck, heavy duty truck, all of them.” Farizon is the commercial vehicle arm of Geely, developed specifically around new-energy commercial vehicles rather than adapting passenger EVs for business use. Jameel Motors contributes local market knowledge, distribution, aftersales and customer relationships.

“You put these together you have one organisation that is providing the full use case for the customers,” Al Chaar says, making it easier for fleet operators to assess how electrification fits their operations. The approach starts with considering the customer’s business and its needs rather than assigning each model to a predetermined segment. “What matters for fleets is the whole business case: Total cost of ownership, where I can charge, how much I can charge, utilisation, productivity, after sales,” he says. “So the whole business case has to make sense to customers.” The UAE line-up comprises the SV Cargo, SV Passenger, H9E and V7E, covering different cargo, passenger and commercial applications. However, Al Chaar says the priority is finding the right vehicle for each operation, not simply increasing the number of models sold. “We try to fit the solution into customers’ operations. If it makes sense they adopt it and then we roll vehicles on the road,” he says. TURNING FEEDBACK INTO PRODUCTS The V7E illustrates how this customer-led approach can influence the portfolio. Farizon initially introduced its SV Cargo, a van Al Chaar describes as a “supervan”, with a distinctive wheelbase, advanced telematics and a Euro NCAP Platinum safety rating. Market feedback highlighted its space and technology, but also the need for more accessible pricing. “Then we looked at how we can account for the pricing to be able to compete and cater for all the businesses that want to adopt EVs but don’t have the necessary liquidity,” he says. “The result was the V7E.” Launched in the UAE in September, the V7E starts at Dh115,000. Its 67kWh battery supports AC and DC charging, delivering a claimed WLTP range of up to 350km. Cargo capacity is 6.9m³, while maximum power and torque are 110kW and 230Nm respectively. According to Al Chaar, the V7E retains the range and cargo capacity customers value while offering more competitive commercial terms. Two sliding side doors also help drivers load and unload in confined delivery locations, including malls and supermarkets, and simplify pallet movement. “For us right now, it answers the challenges of the last mile, e-commerce and logistics businesses from an upfront investment and specs point of view,” he says. The wider range is finding applications beyond conventional delivery work. While cargo vans suit pointto-point transport, passenger models are attracting interest from manpower service companies moving workers such as maids and handymen. Some customers are also adapting passenger vans for family use.

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026

FEATURE

TRUCK ANDFLEETME.COM

FEATURE

“At the beginning Farizon vans were thought of as useful in last mile e-commerce and logistics, but as we’re seeing now, we’re in almost every transport segment where a van is needed,” Al Chaar says. MAKING THE NUMBERS WORK The V7E’s price is central to its appeal. Al Chaar says it is competitively positioned against other vans, with pricing close to an internal-combustion model equivalent, despite offering features such as advanced driver assistance systems, a 360-degree camera, infotainment and other technology aids and features. He argues that the longer-term operating economics strengthen the case further. “Today we can say we have turned the tables from a TCO point of view,” he says. “For example the V7E is 30% cheaper than equivalent ICE options in the long term.” Al Chaar estimates fuel costs for an ICE van at

Farizon was born electric. They designed the vehicles to be from the beginning, R&D and everything, as an EV commercial and passenger van, light duty truck or heavy duty truck” 40

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026

around 0.80 fils per kilometre, compared with 0.44 fils per kilometre for the V7E using electricity. He also points to lower maintenance requirements from an electric drivetrain. Actual savings will depend on mileage, electricity tariffs, utilisation and operating conditions. “We’re no longer telling them that ‘in five years you’re going to save X amount of money’. We’re telling them that ‘from day one you will start seeing savings’,” he says. “Fleet managers are commercially driven. If I tell them to adopt an EV in their business, they will ask me, is it going to make or break my bottom line?” The initial outlay remains important, particularly for large fleets. A business buying two or three vehicles might choose the SV, but electrifying 50 or 100 vans makes the purchase price a much bigger consideration. The V7E aims to lower that barrier without sacrificing essential range and cargo capacity. Refrigerated operations require another tailored decision. Farizon offers a single-battery system that draws power from the vehicle battery for the chiller, or a two-battery arrangement with a separate battery for refrigeration. The first is simpler to operate but reduces driving range slightly; the second protects vehicle range but requires drivers to charge two systems.

FEATURE

Drive the road of change. Full offering - Full range vehicles with the most advanced technologies - Highly customized product driven by market needs and optimized Total Cost of Ownership

European technology - High quality complete line-up in terms of tonnage, power, torque, safety, ergonomics - High performance and robust trucks for extreme Off-road conditions

High capillarity of aftersales - Repair and Maintenance contracts and competitive warranty conditions - Origin 100% IVECO Parts and a widespread network coverage

Customer centricity - Comfort, ergonomics and the latest safety technology to make on board easier - Driver Style Evaluation tool on Heavy ON-road range and optimized vehicle design to improve customer profitability TRUCK ANDFLEETME.COM

pageFEATURE Advertisement – CMME

& Fleet ME Full-Page Speciﬁcation

k size: 240 mm (w) x 300 mm (h) - +10mm Mode : CMYK ution: 300 dpi rmat : High-Res PDF

uction Machinery ME ge Speciﬁcation

k size: 240 mm (w) x 300 mm (h) s: 5 mm Mode: CMYK ution: 300 dpi rmat: High-Res PDF

sletter Banner

x 90px, 500px x 80px, 420px x 350px JPG / GIF ink

il Campaign – Truck & Fleet

roved mailer designed by the client plus the following. ROM (usually the client’s Company name) UBJECT (the subject line that should appear on the e-mail)

your business is running 24/7, you’ll probably opt for Jameel Motors’ role extends beyond referring customers e-mailers must bea two-battery in“If HTML format where images are coded with 'Absolute URL'. solution because your range is important,” Al to charging providers. It works with partners to develop

Farizon comes to customers with a solution, not just a product, says Eddy Al Chaar, as he points out the various model, battery and charging options on offer for a variety of transport tasks.

Chaar says. “But if you do 6-8 hours of delivery a day and then you park the vehicle, then a one-battery system is good for you.”

cost-effective options suited to each fleet’s operational and financial requirements. “Our role is to help them make the right decision and not force a product on them and then tell them to figure out their charging and telematics just for the sake of our sales,” he says. He describes the philosophy succinctly: “We are coming with a solution, not a product.” Fleet data is another part of that proposition. At the V7E launch, customer E Daddy EV Leasing demonstrated its Thunderbolt X platform, featuring vehicle tracking, live telematics, battery and charging insights, and fleet optimisation tools. “Most customers interests and feedback has a common theme: The range, where to charge, how much to charge, the telematics, and how to make best use of them and the data that the vehicle is generating,” Al Chaar says.

width of the designed mailer must not be more than 700 pixels and at 72DPI. trictions on the mailer’s height. CHARGING, DATA AND UPTIME Charging infrastructure remains a key consideration, although Al Chaar says the UAE’s expanding public DC network has made discussions with customers easier. Jameel Motors also works with partners on depot-based DC charging for round-the-clock operations, AC charging for overnight use and assessments where grid capacity needs upgrading. “We give customers options,” he says. “If you’re running a 24-7 operation, we have partners who can come and install DC charging at your depot. If you’re charging overnight, we can supply you with AC charging stations.” Mobile charging can also be integrated into delivery schedules. To elucidate, Al Chaar describes a customer whose vehicle can be met at a planned destination by a mobile charging van, gaining another 20–30% of range while goods are being unloaded.

S and form ﬁelds are not allowed as most e-mail clients don't recognize them. es like these, a dedicated landing page must be provided by the client and on the HTML mailer.

anners are included make sure that they are NOT in ﬂash/SWF format

site MPU Banners

x 250px, 600px x 500px JPG / GIF ink 42

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026

BUILDING FOR THE LONG TERM As the fleet grows, Jameel Motors is developing local parts availability, service capability and technical expertise.

TIPPER TRAILERS

AVAILABLE CAPACITIES: 18 | 23 | 32 | 36 | 48 CBM TRANSPARENT SPECS AND PROVEN DURABILITY BUILT FOR THE HEAVIEST LOADS, WITH NO RECONFIGURATIONS ENGINEERED FOR UPTIME: FEWER BREAKDOWNS, FEWER DELAYS

nazindustries.ae info@nazindustries.ae sales@nazindustries.ae 77th Street, DIP 2, Dubai, UAE +971 48107777

Scan and equire

FEATURE

While the recentlylaunched V7E is suitable for a plethora of commercial applications, Farizon also offers wellappointed passenger van options with various seating configurations.

Al Chaar says contingency planning is particularly important amid shipping disruption, port congestion and rising container costs. “You don’t want to tell the market: ‘It’s not me, the shipment is sitting in a ship out at sea somewhere’. You have to bring a solution to the customer, as their business and their vehicles cannot stop running because of geopolitical logistics problems and the skyrocketing container prices for shipment to the GCC,” he says. The company is exploring alternative shipping routes through ports including Aqaba, Jeddah, Khor Fakkan and Duqm, while seeking to maintain maintenance pricing and minimise disruption for customers. Future product development will follow the same market-led process. Al Chaar estimates that changes requiring new homologation and testing can take six to 12 months, depending on GCC requirements. The team first looks at existing Farizon models and potential adjustments before considering entirely new products. “The OEM is very supportive,” he says, but investment must make commercial sense. “If you’re going to sell only 50 units, to introduce a new product will not make sense.” Over the next three to five years, the ambition is

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026

to expand the portfolio and support network in step with customer requirements, rather than add vehicles simply to increase sales. “In my opinion, it’s not about how many units we’ve sold; it’s about the trust that the market has in you that makes you look successful,” Al Chaar says. “If Farizon immediately comes to mind when anyone thinks ‘we need an electric van’, that’s success.”

We give customers options. If you’re running a 24-7 operation, we have partners who can come and install DC charging at your depot. If you’re charging overnight, we can supply you with AC charging stations”

FEATURE

Keeping cool under performance pressure Farizon Auto and Careem recently completed a 19km delivery of a 690kg block of ice across Dubai using a fully electric refrigerated Farizon van, with the cargo arriving intact despite ambient temperatures of 40°C. The delivery began at Artisan Ice Co in Al Quoz and ended at Aquaventure World at Atlantis, The Palm. According to Farizon, the SV Chiller maintained a cargo bay temperature of between 0°C and 5°C throughout the journey while powering both its refrigeration system and drivetrain from the same battery. The vehicle completed the trip with more than

95% charge remaining, Farizon said. The demonstration was intended to address concerns about electric commercial vehicles operating in the Gulf, where high temperatures and the additional energy demands of refrigeration can affect vehicle range and operating performance. The delivery followed Careem’s decision to begin selling blocks of ice for residential swimming pools through its app this month. Content creator Mo Vlogs subsequently ordered the entire available inventory, before Aquaventure World challenged the companies to cool its 23-million-litre pool.

Careem already distributes temperature-sensitive groceries and food products across the UAE through its Captain network. The ice delivery provided an opportunity to test an electric refrigerated vehicle under demanding operating conditions. “Heat is the objection we hear most often about electric commercial vehicles in the Gulf. Refrigerated cargo in September is the hardest version of that objection. This delivery answers it in public, with a load nobody can argue with,” said Saad Abdullah, Marketing Director, Mobility at Jameel

Motors, exclusive distributor of Farizon Auto in the UAE. “Careem delivers thousands of chilled orders a day across the UAE, so keeping things cold on the move is nothing new to us. What Farizon has shown is that it can be done electrically, at this scale, in September heat,” said Adeeb Warsi, Chief Operating Officer at Careem. The demonstration adds to the ongoing evaluation of electric commercial vehicles for temperature-controlled logistics in the UAE, where operators must balance payload requirements, refrigeration demand and driving range.

TRUCK ANDFLEETME.COM

WORKSHOP

SERVICE MY CAR ENTERS UAE MOBILE BATTERY AFTERMARKET Digital automotive platform targets the UAE’s battery replacement market with an on-demand service designed to reduce the need for workshop visits SERVICE MY CAR HAS entered the UAE’s aftermarket battery service space with a mobile

testing and replacement offering, allowing technicians to attend vehicles at homes, workplaces or suitable roadside locations. The service forms part of the company’s wider digital vehicle maintenance proposition and is aimed at motorists seeking alternatives to conventional workshop-based battery replacement. Technicians assess the vehicle battery and related electrical systems at the customer’s location before carrying out a replacement where required. The approach is intended to address one of the more disruptive routine vehicle failures without requiring a vehicle that will not start to be transported to a workshop.

TRUCK ANDFLEETME.COM

WORKSHOP

Battery deterioration can be indicated by slow engine cranking, dimming headlights, electrical problems and difficulty starting. However, batteries can also fail with little warning, making testing and preventive checks relevant to fleets and motorists with high vehicle usage. “The way motorists approach car maintenance is changing,” said Prem Anandkumar N, Business Head at Service My Car. “Customers increasingly expect essential automotive services to fit around their schedules. Mobile services allow us to bring the technician directly to the vehicle, making an otherwise disruptive maintenance issue much more convenient to deal with.” Service My Car said bookings can

be made through its digital platforms, including online and WhatsApp channels. The model removes the initial requirement for customers to visit a workshop to arrange an assessment or replacement. For the aftermarket, mobile battery replacement reflects a broader shift towards services being delivered at the vehicle rather than at a fixed workshop. Battery work is particularly suited to this model because testing and replacement can generally be completed at the vehicle’s location, provided the necessary equipment and replacement battery are available. The company is also positioning battery testing as a preventive maintenance measure. Checking battery health during routine

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026

Service My Car’s battery service is part of the company’s wider digital vehicle maintenance proposition and is aimed at motorists seeking alternatives to conventional workshop-based battery replacement.

vehicle use can identify declining performance before a complete failure, potentially reducing unplanned downtime. The move gives Service My Car an additional entry point into routine automotive aftersales in the UAE, while extending its mobile service beyond conventional workshop-based maintenance. With battery failure capable of immobilising vehicles with little notice, the segment offers an opportunity for service providers to combine digital booking with on-site technical support. For operators and motorists, the proposition is centred on reducing vehicle downtime and avoiding an unnecessary workshop visit when a battery replacement can be completed at the vehicle’s location.

WORKSHOP

Al-Futtaim renews airbag recall for Lexus and Toyota Al-Futtaim Toyota and Lexus have launched a renewed campaign to address outstanding Takata airbag recalls on selected Toyota and Lexus vehicles in the UAE, highlighting a safety issue that can remain unresolved years after affected vehicles were sold. The campaign, titled ‘Don’t Risk It, Fix It’, targets owners who have not responded to previous recall notices. The affected vehicles use Takata airbag inflators that can deteriorate over time, with exposure to high temperatures and humidity increasing the risk. If an inflator ruptures during deployment, it can send metal fragments into the vehicle cabin.

CGTG expands European auto parts distribution in UAE Continental General Trading Group (CGTG) has expanded its wholesale automotive parts operations through European Autospares Trading LLC (EAT) and European Autospares FZC (EAS), establishing separate channels for customers in the UAE and international markets. The Dubai-headquartered automotive supply chain and trading company said the move will support garages, independent workshops, retailers, resellers and fleet operators sourcing parts for European, luxury and exotic vehicles. EAT operates as CGTG Group’s UAE trading and distribution arm, supplying genuine parts for a range of European luxury and premium marques. Its portfolio includes Bentley, Maserati, Lamborghini, Ferrari, Rolls-Royce, Aston Martin, Jaguar, Land Rover, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche and Audi, among others. For customers outside the UAE, EAS functions as the group’s international export operation, with a focus on bulk orders for retailers, resellers, fleet operators and other trade buyers. The export business covers genuine and aftermarket components for brands including Porsche, Volkswagen, Audi, BMW, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Geely, Chery, BYD, GWM, Changan, VW ID models, JAC and Dong Feng.

OTOKAR BEGINS MERCEDES-BENZ CONECTO PRODUCTION IN TURKEY Daimler Buses, Mercedes-Benz Türk and Otokar have marked the start of series production of the Mercedes-Benz Conecto at Otokar’s manufacturing facility in Sakarya, Türkiye, advancing a production partnership established in 2025. The additional manufacturing capacity is primarily intended to help Daimler Buses and Mercedes-Benz Türk respond to continued demand for the Conecto in European markets. For the wider Middle East bus sector, the development also highlights the growing role of Turkish manufacturing capacity and regional commercial-vehicle companies in supporting international bus programmes. Otokar already operates subsidiaries in the UAE.

TRUCK ANDFLEETME.COM

FEATURE

TUSKER: PUTTING THE JUMBO IN HAULING With more than 700 of its 48CBM tipper trailers delivered across the UAE, Tusker Engineering is building its reputation on payload, durability and local support as it prepares for its next phase of growth THE CASE FOR locally manufactured truck equipment is built around a straightforward calculation: fleet operators need to move more material, keep vehicles working and control the cost of every tonne transported. This is a paradigm that Tusker Engineering believes in. The Sharjah based company says its 48 cubic metre (48CBM) tipper trailer has become a flagship product

by addressing those priorities, with more than 700 units delivered to construction, aggregates and earth moving businesses across the UAE. “The 48CBM tipper trailer was developed in direct response to customer demand to move more material per trip without sacrificing durability,” says Rajiv Kumar, General Manager at Tusker Engineering. “Our engineering team spent

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026

Tusker has found great success in the market with its 48CBM tipper trailers. The company said many customers initially bought one unit and returned with repeat orders after assessing its performance.

several months on design, material selection and load distribution analysis, followed by field trials and continuous improvement with selected customers before the full launch.” Founded in 2009 in Hamriyah Free Zone, Sharjah, Tusker began as a specialist fabrication business serving the oil field sector. It has since expanded into commercial vehicle equipment, becoming a UAE

FEATURE

manufacturer of trailers and truck bodies for domestic customers and the wider GCC. Its portfolio spans semi trailers, rigid truck bodies, tail lifts, tankers and specialised equipment, supported by in house engineering, fabrication, painting, assembly and after sales service. “We began as a specialist fabrication company focused on oil field engineering and specialised equipment,” Kumar says. “Over the years, that engineering foundation has carried us into the commercial vehicle sector, and today Tusker is one of the UAE’s leading manufacturers of trailers and truck bodies, designed and built in the region for the UAE and wider GCC.” “Our expertise covers the full cycle. We do in-house design and engineering, material preparation, fabrication, painting, assembly and after sales support – all under one roof,” Kumar says. “Today we build a wide range of semi-trailers, tipper trailers and tipper bodies, road tankers, container side loaders, cement bulkers, reefer and dry cargo bodies, tail lifts and specialised custom engineered equipment, alongside a steel service centre and oil field engineering capability.” BUILT ON CUSTOMER FEEDBACK The 48CBM trailer is a clear example of that combination of engineering and customer feedback. Its large body is intended to increase the volume of sand, aggregates and other bulk material carried on each trip. Tusker says the chassis and floor use high strength ASTM A572 steel, selected to withstand abrasive loads, while the chassis is designed with stability during tipping in mind. The specification includes a HYVA front mounted tipping cylinder, FUWA axles with heavy duty mechanical suspension, a WABCO braking system, JOST landing legs and king pins, and a HELLA electrical system.“The chassis and floor are built from high strength ASTM A572 steel for long life under abrasive loads,

and the trailer is fitted with premium components throughout,” Kumar says. “The chassis is optimised for stability during tipping, with options such as automatic tarpaulin covers, different rear door configurations and tailored body shapes.” “Its popularity comes down to economics and reliability,” Kumar says. “More payload per trip means a lower cost per tonne, the robust build means less downtime, and local manufacturing means shorter lead times and fast access to spare parts and service.” The scale of demand is reflected in the number of units delivered. Tusker reports that it has supplied more than 700 of its 48CBM tipper trailers to construction, aggregates and earth moving companies in the UAE. The company says many customers initially bought one unit and returned with repeat orders after assessing its performance in service. Applications

Rajiv Kumar, General Manager, Tusker Engineering, says the company builds a wide range of semi-trailers, tipper trailers and tipper bodies, road tankers, container side loaders, cement bulkers, reefer and dry cargo bodies, tail lifts and specialised custom engineered equipment.

include sand, aggregates, crushed rock, excavated material and other bulk loads for major construction and infrastructure projects, as well as quarry to site haulage. “We have delivered more than 700 units to leading construction, aggregates and earth moving companies in the UAE,” Kumar says. “Most of these customers started with a single trailer from us and, once they saw how it performed, have continued to place repeat orders.” “Customers chose the model mainly for its higher carrying capacity, the strength of its build and Tusker’s reliable local support,” he says. “The trailers are used to transport sand, aggregates, crushed rock, excavated material and other bulk loads on major construction and infrastructure projects, as well as for quarry to site haulage.” Kumar argues that service is as important as the initial specification. Tusker provides a one-year manufacturer’s warranty covering structure and workmanship, alongside component warranties from major suppliers. Dedicated service and repair workshops in Hamriyah and Dubai Industrial City are supported by mobile teams that attend breakdowns and carry out inspections at customer sites. The company also stocks genuine spare parts, including hydraulic components, axle and suspension parts, lighting and body panels. “After sales service is central to how we work, because a trailer only earns money for our customer when it is on the road,” Kumar says. “We operate dedicated service and

Our expertise covers the full cycle. We do inhouse design and engineering, material preparation, fabrication, painting, assembly and after sales support – all under one roof ” TRUCK ANDFLEETME.COM

FEATURE

repair workshops in Hamriyah and Dubai Industrial City, supported by mobile service teams who attend breakdowns and carry out inspections at customer sites.” “Because we design and manufacture locally, our customers deal directly with the people who built their equipment, which means faster decisions, faster parts and faster repairs,” Kumar says. “Our support does not end at delivery: we work as one team with our customers, training their drivers and maintenance staff in safe operation and preventive maintenance, and supporting regular servicing to keep every trailer performing at its best.” The wider business has been expanding alongside the tipper programme. Kumar says Tusker’s sales grew by approximately 80% compared with the previous period, supported by demand from construction, infrastructure, logistics and waste management. Its order book extends three to four months ahead, according to the company, and it is seeing repeat business from established customers as well as enquiries from Oman and other GCC markets.

Tusker’s 48CBM trailer is a combination of engineering and customer feedback. Its large body is intended to increase the volume of sand, aggregates and other bulk material on each trip, and the chassis and floor use high strength ASTM A572 steel.

“The last 12–24 months have been among the strongest in Tusker’s history,” Kumar says. “We have increased our share of the local trailer and tipper market, and our order book currently extends three to four months ahead. We have also seen growing repeat business from existing fleet customers – which, for me, is the clearest indicator of customer satisfaction – along with new enquiries and orders from Oman and other GCC markets.” One milestone has been the development of the UAE’s first locally manufactured container side

Tusker’s four key product lines TIPPERS: “Our flagship 48CBM tipper trailer has become a benchmark in the region for hauling sand, aggregates and construction materials. It is complemented by our 32CBM tipper trailer and a full range of tipper bodies from 2CBM to 24CBM for rigid truck chassis.” TANKERS: “We build fuel and water

tanker trailers with capacities from 6,000 to 13,500 imperial gallons, either to standard specifications or to ADNOC, ENOC and Shell requirements for fuel transport. We also build vacuum tankers for municipal services and hazardous waste handling.” OFF ROAD AND DESERT SOLUTIONS: “We specialise in torsion free

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2026

tankers and tipper bodies for 6x6 and 4x4 off road truck chassis, along with low bed, flatbed and skeletal trailers engineered for demanding desert conditions.” FLATBED AND SKELETON SEMI-TRAILERS: “The workhorses of the region’s logistics and container transport fleets, built for high payload and long service life.”

loader semi-trailer. Tusker says it has secured orders from AD Ports Group, dnata, Al Futtaim Logistics and other major fleet owners. The project illustrates the company’s ambition to compete through local engineering and customisation, rather than only through standard products. “We are proud to be the UAE’s only local manufacturer of the container side loader semi-trailer, for which we have won orders from AD Ports Group, dnata, Al Futtaim Logistics and other major fleet owners,” Kumar says. “We have also demonstrated the strength of our in-house design and engineering capabilities by manufacturing products that no other company currently produces locally in the UAE, including container side loader semi-trailers and tail lifts.” Kumar’s own progression has followed the company’s shift from sales led growth towards a broader operational focus. Before joining Tusker, he spent around a decade in planning and operations in the trailer industry. He joined the company in 2019 as Sales Manager and led the sales function for seven years, working closely with fleet owners, contractors and logistics companies. That experience, he says, kept customer requirements connected to production decisions. “With my operations background,

FEATURE

Kumar says. “In terms The 48CBM tipper trailer was developed in direct response customers,” of the market, I see demand moving firmly towards higher productivity, to customer demand to move more material per trip”

my role was never limited to sales,” he says. “I stayed closely involved with production and brought customer feedback onto the shop floor. To strengthen both sides of the business, we built new sales and production teams, recruiting highly experienced professionals from other reputed companies in the industry.” CONSISTENCY IN QUALITY The production team was organised into dedicated divisions for fabrication and for material preparation and painting, a change Kumar says helped increase output while maintaining consistent quality. Now General Manager, he oversees the complete operation with Managing Director Rohit Ramsinghani. His priorities include scaling capacity, shortening lead times, developing products

and raising service standards. Looking ahead, Tusker plans to expand production capacity and its facility footprint, invest in automation and modern fabrication and painting technology, and strengthen its presence in Oman and other GCC markets. Product development is expected to focus on lighter tipper, tanker and trailer designs using advanced high strength steels and aluminium, specialised logistics equipment, and bodies suitable for electric and alternative fuel trucks. The company is also exploring telematics and smart trailer features to help fleets monitor loads, location and maintenance requirements. “Our vision is for Tusker Engineering to be recognised as the most trusted trailer and truck body brand in the GCC – not just for the products we build, but for the total value and support we give our

Tusker’s future plans include expanding production capacity and its facility footprint, investing in automation and modern fabrication and painting technology, and strengthening its presence in Oman and other GCC markets.

lower total cost of ownership, sustainability and local manufacturing.” Tusker also sees its local manufacturing base as a competitive advantage against imported equipment. “Compared with imported brands, we offer equipment designed specifically for Middle East conditions – extreme heat, desert sand and heavy, often overloaded duty cycles – along with significantly shorter lead times, competitive pricing without import costs and delays, and the flexibility to customise each unit to the customer’s exact application,” Kumar says. For the 48CBM tipper, the next stage is likely to depend on the same fundamentals that drove its adoption: useful capacity, durability, dependable service and a clear operating cost case. For Tusker, sustaining that momentum will mean increasing output without losing the engineering flexibility and customer support it sees as its main differentiators.

TRUCK ANDFLEETME.COM

10 December 2026 DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Celebrating excellence and innovation shaping the future of commercial vehicles, transport and logistics in the region 31