Chinese FAW Trucks Enter Israeli Market, Undercutting European Rivals
Translated & summarized from Walla by baba
Chinese truck manufacturer FAW has launched its J7 model in Israel, offering a significant price advantage over European competitors. The importer, Horizon Motors, has established a nationwide service network and reports strong initial demand.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Chinese FAW trucks enter the Israeli market, challenging European brands.
- The FAW J7 is priced significantly lower than comparable European models.
- Horizon Motors is importing the trucks and has established a nationwide service network.
- The company claims substantial savings in operational and maintenance costs.
- FAW is a major Chinese manufacturer with decades of truck production experience.
Chinese automaker FAW has entered the Israeli heavy truck market, aiming to compete with established European brands like Volvo, Mercedes, Scania, and DAF. Horizon Motors, controlled by the Katz family, is importing the FAW J7 model, which will be delivered to customers this month. FAW is one of China's largest vehicle manufacturers and has been producing trucks since the 1950s, also manufacturing Volkswagen and Toyota models for the Chinese domestic market. The J7, available in 4x2 and 6x4 configurations for towing up to 50 tons, features a 560 horsepower turbo-diesel engine and utilizes Western components, including a ZF 12-speed gearbox and a Bosch steering system.
The Israeli heavy truck market is estimated at around 1,000 units annually. The FAW J7 enters with a significant price advantage, starting at approximately 110,000 euros, compared to the average of 160,000 euros for European competitors. Horizon Motors reports receiving 100 initial orders and is preparing to import 12-ton trucks as well.
To support the launch, Horizon Motors has established a nationwide service network, including large maintenance centers, mobile service units, a spare parts supply system, and on-site support from FAW service personnel. The trucks come with a four-year warranty, and Horizon claims a 30% reduction in ongoing maintenance costs compared to European trucks.
Brigadier General (Res.) Lawrence Moalem, appointed to manage FAW's operations in Israel, stated that beyond the truck's quality, the primary consideration for transport companies is the total operational cost over time, including fuel consumption, maintenance, spare parts availability, and service levels. He emphasized that the Israeli market seeks solutions offering real operational efficiency and that FAW is committed to building a comprehensive, high-quality service network across the country for the long term.