Diesel engine and generator supplier YC Diesel South Africa is set to broaden its footprint in the automotive and industrial sectors by not only introducing trucks and construction equipment to its existing line-up of engines and generators but also appointing capable dealer partners across Southern Africa.

With its expansion the company aims to complement its current products and offer more comprehensive solutions to its growing customer base.

Customers in Southern Africa will now have access to engines from 16 kW to 3 200 kW, covering a variety of sectors such as generator-specification engines and pumps, as well as the marine, truck and bus industries.

The 16 kW to 1 000 kW engine units are readily available, while sizes beyond that range will be available on order.

YC Diesel’s range of generators spans from 2 kVA to 4 MW, with sizes from 2 kVA to 1 250 kVA currently in stock. Any requirements larger than that will be supplied on an order-by-order basis, but with short lead times.

The move aligns with the company’s long-term strategy of becoming a market leader in the value-driven segment, says YC Diesel SA brand manager Tom Bloom.

“By expanding our offering, we’re providing clients and dealers with additional revenue streams and opening new markets,” he says, highlighting the company’s extensive experience in the vehicle and construction industries as a key factor driving this decision.

YC Diesel SA was initially established to address the local market’s demand for premium, cost-effective products supported by Chinese and South African expertise.

Bloom says this demand presented a clear opportunity to provide reliable solutions that reduce operational costs.

“With over 40 years of experience in the automotive and industrial sectors, our leadership team has a proven track record of successfully introducing and growing brands into market leaders across various African markets,” he says, adding that this approach is reflected in the company’s motto: “We Care”.

The company’s current line-up is anchored by the Yuchai range of engines, which serves diverse applications, including trucks, buses, marine vessels and industrial equipment. Yuchai, established in 1951, has built a reputation for producing reliable and cost-saving engines.

“We are confident in our offerings, which is why we provide a two-year, or 2 000-hour, warranty,” Bloom notes, emphasising the suitability of these engines for critical sectors such as emergency, standby and fire pump systems.

YC Diesel SA also leverages its leadership team’s expertise to solidify its position in the value market.

However, Bloom stresses the importance of a strategic approach supported by a skilled team and high-quality products.

Brand Awareness

YC Diesel SA exhibited at the Electra Mining Africa 2024 exhibition as part of its brand establishment efforts.

Bloom describes the event as an “excellent platform to gauge market interest” and, following the successful brand introduction, the company intends to take the next step of establishing a strong dealer footprint to ensure “unparalleled sales and service support” to its customers.

This strategy involves a two-tier partnership model that aims to foster strong relationships with resellers and suppliers and is designed to meet the specific demands of sectors such as transport and logistics.

Firstly, the company would like to partner with generator resellers and service agents and, secondly, to collaborate with existing premium generator suppliers that “want to introduce a reputable value product in their offerings”.

Bloom says the two-tier approach is a “win-win”, built on transparency and long-term collaboration.

Customer support and aftersales service play a vital role in YC Diesel SA’s approach to building trust.

“A relationship isn’t just about selling a product; it’s about how customers experience the full life cycle of that product,” Bloom tells Engineering News.

He acknowledges that challenges are inevitable, but stresses that the company prioritises addressing issues with the right attitude and mindset.

To further meet industry demands, YC Diesel SA is partnering with established leaders in the high-capacity engine and generator markets.

It is also conducting market research to ensure the availability of stock and plans to increase warranty periods in specific applications to provide additional customer assurance.

“We are working closely with our partners to develop solutions for markets previously dominated by non-Chinese brands,” Bloom says.

YC Diesel SA aims to broaden its product portfolio and strengthen its presence across Southern Africa.

Bloom outlines a deliberate approach to growth, prioritising the fulfilment of current commitments before pursuing new opportunities.

“Building brands and businesses runs in our veins. We are taking it step by step, with a view to becoming the future market leader in the segments we represent,” he concludes.