UD Trucks Southern Africa has officially launched its operations in Zambia through a strategic partnership with Imperial Motors Zambia, a part of Motus Africa. The launch signifies a pivotal milestone in UD Trucks’ Southern African expansion strategy, establishing a presence in three key locations: Lusaka, Kitwe, and Solwezi.
The expansion introduces UD Trucks’ renowned Japanese engineering, global commercial vehicle expertise, and customer-centric philosophy to Zambia, a market where reliable transport is crucial for economic growth. Through their collaboration, UD Trucks and Imperial Motors Zambia aim to provide more than just commercial vehicles; they offer comprehensive transport solutions that include the right products, professional aftersales support, and long-term customer partnerships.
For UD Trucks Southern Africa, entering the Zambian market is a strategic move to strengthen its regional footprint and extend its commitment to customers across key African markets. Following the introduction of UD Trucks in Malawi in 2025, this launch further solidifies the partnership with Motus Africa, opening doors to serve customers in a region with significant transport demands across mining, agriculture, construction, logistics, and distribution.
UD Trucks emphasizes a total transport solutions approach, addressing the entire lifecycle of a vehicle – from acquisition to maintenance and operational support. Graham Kolm, SSA Markets General Manager for Trucks Southern Africa, underscored the importance of aligning product capabilities with the realities of customers’ businesses, emphasizing that, “a truck is much more than a vehicle; it is a critical business asset.”
Imperial Motors Zambia, with 12 years of experience in the Zambian automotive market, strengthens its portfolio with the addition of UD Trucks. As part of Motus Africa, Imperial Motors Zambia combines local market knowledge with regional automotive network access, providing a solid foundation for developing the UD Trucks brand locally.
Tim Jaques, Chairman of Imperial Motors Zambia and CEO of Motus Africa, expressed the organization’s commitment to the Zambian market, highlighting the introduction of UD Trucks as a reflection of their ambition to broaden their offerings.
Mr. Fredrick Mwalusaka highlighted the critical role of transport and logistics in Zambia’s economic development during the event. He emphasized Zambia’s potential as a regional transport and logistics hub, underscoring the importance of efficient goods movement.
The launch marks the beginning of a new chapter for UD Trucks in Zambia. Through three operational locations, the brand is set to develop customer relationships, strengthen aftersales support, and grow its presence in key transport segments. Over the next few years, Imperial Motors Zambia plans to expand its UD Trucks customer base and continue investing in facilities, expertise, and aftersales capabilities.
UD Trucks Southern Africa’s expansion into Zambia represents not just market growth but an opportunity to contribute to the development of Africa’s commercial transport sector. Guided by its commitment to Ultimate Dependability, UD Trucks is poised to support Zambian businesses, going the extra mile to ensure reliable operations and sustainable growth.
