Recently, a delivery ceremony for a batch of BAIC Foton buses was held in Kolwezi, the capital of Lualaba Province in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The delivered vehicles include 30 Foton school buses and public buses, which will be primarily used for student transportation at public primary and secondary schools as well as the University of Kolwezi, in addition to serving urban public transportation. This initiative will contribute to the upgrading of local education infrastructure.

The delivered school buses comprise two models. One model has been specially customized to suit the high-temperature climate of the DRC: the cooling capacity of the air conditioning system, the air conditioning blower, and the vents have been optimized, and a mechanical fan has been added to ensure riding comfort. The number of seats has also been increased from 48 to 56 to better align with actual operational needs.

The other model is one of Foton’s main promoted products in the DRC. Its adaptability and cost-effectiveness have been proven in the market, and it is primarily used in local mining operations and passenger terminals. This model currently offers two configurations: the first is a 56-seat dedicated school bus with a 53+2+1 layout, customized to meet the requirements of domestic primary and secondary schools as well as customer demands, ensuring both safety and comfort; the second is a 61-seat model with a 58+2+1 layout and dual passenger doors, widely deployed for workforce transportation in mining areas and urban public transit systems, emphasizing comfort and commuting efficiency.

As the second-largest country in Africa by area, the DRC is rich in mineral resources, yet its infrastructure remains relatively underdeveloped. Road conditions are complex, fuel quality is inconsistent, and the after-sales maintenance system is still evolving. In response to these conditions, BAIC Foton has recommended a series of bus products featuring standardized models and unified spare parts solutions. These vehicles offer high reliability, strong compatibility, and low emissions as core advantages, significantly reducing operating and maintenance costs while effectively adapting to the local environment and resource conditions.

This delivery marks the beginning of deepened cooperation between BAIC Foton and the DRC government in vehicle procurement and cooperative assembly. It has laid a solid foundation for subsequent promotion of local SKD assembly projects and broader collaboration in government and public service vehicles. These buses will serve as a pilot demonstration for the DRC to enhance governmental efficiency and public services, further boosting urban transportation capacity and optimizing the commuting experience for students and residents.

The introduction of these vehicles will greatly alleviate student transportation challenges and ease the travel difficulties faced by citizens in Kolwezi. It represents a concrete step by the government to implement public welfare projects and improve service delivery. As a key player in the African commercial vehicle market, BAIC Foton has established a comprehensive sales and service network across multiple African markets, with products covering heavy-duty trucks, light-duty trucks, pickups, and buses. Through its "Africa Strategy," the company is systematically enhancing its capabilities across the entire value chain—including products, network, service, parts, financing, and talent development—with a focus on promoting core businesses such as heavy trucks, pickups, and buses. This effort supports African countries in building sustainable transportation systems.

Source : www.chinabuses.org

Editor : Lucy

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