SOUTH AFRICA
Brazilian manufacturer Marcopolo is continuing to strengthen the company’s presence in other continents. This month, the company has announced the arrival of its Generation 8 coaches in the South African market, with more than 30 units already in production to meet the region’s demand.
“In recent years, we have made important sales of New G7 models to companies in the region. To continue our growth and offer the most advanced models available, we are launching the G8 to expand our participation in the intercity segment,” explained José Luis Moraes Goes, Director of International Operations and Commercial Foreign Market at Marcopolo.
The African region is the second largest market for Marcopolo, the Brazilian brand, only beaten by Latin America. In 2023, the company reported a market share in South Africa of 48%, a considerable increase compared to 2020, when its market share was 24%. Last year, Marcopolo South Africa says it invoiced 362 units and, for 2024, the forecast is for more than 400 vehicles.
“We are always looking for ways to expand our business. We carried out several studies to identify possible new areas of activity, always focused on offering mobility solutions that provide benefits to users and operators,” added José Luis.
The first Generation 8 model to arrive in the African market will be the Paradiso 1350, imported from Brazil, and in right-hand drive format. At 15 metres long, it has a capacity of 60 passengers in semi-sleeper seats. As well as the necessary air-conditioning system, a toilet, USB-C chargers, a coffee maker and full LED headlights are fitted.
To mark the arrival of the G8 in the country, Marcopolo held a launch event on 17 July which was attended by companies from South Africa, Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia, Zimbabwe, among others that already have vehicles of the brand in service.
