With its rugged features and hard-working attitude the trusty Ford Bantam has epitomised the Built Ford Tough ethos for almost three decades. The Bantam, known by some as the bakkie that built the nation - developed and built by South Africans for South Africans in SA - was the product of homegrown expertise purpose-designed to suit the local environment.
"South African consumers were first introduced to the Ford Bantam in 1983," said Jeff Nemeth, president and CEO of Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (FMCSA). "It was a uniquely South African innovation that for 28 years combined the durability and reliability of a pick-up with the comfort and performance of a passenger car."
The last Bantam rolled off the line at about 11h45am on November 17.
While the Bantam will always be remembered as a significant model in SA's motoring heritage, production has made way for the recently introduced all-new Ford Ranger.
The Silverton assembly plant was able to assemble multiple vehicles previously. However, as one of three global production hubs for the Ranger, the facility needed to transform into a single-model production facility that will see vehicles exported to 148 countries, with a capacity of 110000 units annually.
The project has brought with it significant investment and has seen the introduction of a new body shop, supplier incubation centre and training simulator constructed from the ground up, while all areas of the plant have been upgraded, he said.
"The Bantam has contributed positively to the South African economy and ensured jobs for the many workers at our assembly plant in Silverton and our Struandale engine plant in the Eastern Cape.
"However, with the introduction of the all-new Ranger Ford has made a significant investment in SA, ensuring even greater opportunities for the surrounding communities," said Nemeth.
Locally, the Bantam has been the face of the Built Ford Tough ethos and lays claim to being SA's longest running nameplate for Ford SA.
Ford will continue to offer aftersales support to customers.
Thanks to its high local content and Ford's extensive dealer network customers have been assured that they will receive the same high levels of support as before.
Source: Business Day
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