INTERVIEW
UD Trucks’ Better Life Strategy is a
comprehensive, global approach aimed at
enhancing the quality of life for individu-
als and communities through a range of
initiatives. The strategy focuses on inno-
vation, sustainability, and partnerships.
Business Fleet Africa (BFA) recently
met with Filip Van den Heede, the
Managing Director of UD Trucks Southern
Africa, to gain a better understanding of
the company’s strategy and its impact on
transport operators in South Africa.
BFA: When it comes to innovation,
it’s fair to say that you are at the
forefront, especially in terms of
reducing vehicle emissions.
Filip: We have always been innovators
and have strived to stay ahead of the
curve. In 2019, we became the first
company in South Africa to manufacture
Euro 5 trucks with the Quon range.
Today, we only offer vehicles that meet
Euro 5 emissions standards. We no
longer sell vehicles that meet Euro 4 or
Euro 3 standards. To date we have sold
thousands of vehicles that meet Euro 5
standards in this market.
Of course, one could argue that the
market does not require it and that
the legislation only applies to Euro 2
standards, but we believe that it is also a
matter of social responsibility. While old-
er technology may be a viable option, we
firmly believe that promoting a better
quality of life, which is one of the pillars
of our overall strategy, necessitates
having a positive impact on the planet.
We want to be a part of the trans-
formation and ensure that customers
are educated and informed about the
advantages of the technology. Our trucks
utilise Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR)
technology, which involves the use of
AdBlue, a diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) that
helps reduce harmful emissions. Although
change can be difficult, we are proud to
report that since our launch in 2019, four
years ago, the supply of AdBlue to our
customers is no longer a concern.
It may require some customers to
adapt to the way they manage their
fleets by implementing additional
checkpoints. With a large customer
base, we have overcome that hurdle.
Everyone wants to improve emission
standards. Raising these standards will
benefit South Africa and improve the
health of its citizens. So, we thought that
the sooner we act, the better.
BFA: Could you provide us with
more information about your ACE
initiatives?
Filip: ACE stands for Automation,
Connectivity, and Electromobility. We
launched our Fujin Raijin strategy in early
2019, which focused on automating the
production of electromobility vehicles.
At the Tokyo Motor Show, we
showcased two vehicles–one focused
on automation and the another on elec-
tromobility. We are currently developing
and putting a lot of effort into establish-
ing joint ventures with partners in Japan.
UD Trucks unpacks
Better Life strategy
Filip Van den Heede, the Managing Director of
UD Trucks Southern Africa
BUSINESS FLEET AFRICA | June 2023
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