The Bakkie has long been coveted in South Africa as the ultimate work vehicle, capable to carrying a ton while doubling as a taxi on the way home. But is there a better option for Tradesmen and women?
If you look to Europe, the panel van has a stranglehold over the ‘Tradies’ section of the workforce. The Bakkie is often more of a recreational/farm vehicle over there.
The weather in the UK is likely a reason for needing an enclosed storage space, but it just makes more sense all round once you’ve compared them for some applications and professions.
So I got hold of the new Ford Transit Custom (Bestselling van in the Europe) vs the new GWM P300 LS 2.4 diesel to see how they stack up for urban utility.
First of all, living in South Africa with crime issues, the van is better from a security point of view, as you can black out the windows to hide to contents.
The loading area is bigger and taller, with the Transit being capable of easily carrying a 1 ton load. But with the van you are able to get the weight further forward, due to a shorter bonnet, creating better handling dynamics. However, you are also closer to an accident if it happens head-on. One reason why truck drivers prefer long Mack style bonnets.
The Transit felt less bouncy in the suspension with a load in the back. I took the opportunity to load 600kg of firewood in the back and it handled the task without breaking a sweat.
Heading into the load compartment, in short wheelbase guise the Transit Custom Sport is 5 050mm long and has a load compartment length measuring 2 602mm up to the bulkhead and a width of 1 392mm between the wheel arches.
With a maximum load volume of 5.8m3, it can carry up to three standard Euro pallets with a payload up to 1 023kg. The Transit Custom’s 2 500kg tow rating for a braked trailer is unchanged.
Providing a compelling blend of both performance and fuel efficiency, the Transit Custom Sport is powered by an updated version of Ford’s 2.0-litre Single Turbo EcoBlue diesel four-cylinder engine. In this form it produces 125kW of power and a substantial 390Nm of torque between 1 750 and 2 500 r/min (increases of 25kW and 30Nm, respectively, compared to the Transit Custom Base).
It’s Europe’s best-selling one-ton van and five-time winner of the International Van of the Year, including claiming the 2024 title with this all-new model.
“Transit Custom Sport buyers are typically sole traders or owner-operators, as well as customers looking for an exceptionally spacious and practical vehicle to suit their adventurous and lifestyle-oriented requirements,” adds Sewmohan.
Emphasising its more overt and dynamic character, the Transit Custom Sport is exclusively available in short wheelbase configuration and is distinguished from the existing commercial-oriented long wheelbase Base model through several eye-catching exterior changes. This includes a sport body kit, honeycomb sport grille, rear spoiler and distinctive 17-inch multi-spoke matte black alloy wheels fitted with 215/60 R17 tyres.
GWM P300
Meanwhile, the P300, with its impressive new 2.4 diesel engine carries a load well too, with its leaf sprung suspension. You could argue that’s it’s easier to unload a van vs a Bakkie due to the extra height of the tray.
Beneath its assertive exterior, the new P300 LS carries the recently introduced and well accepted 2.4-litre Turbo Diesel engine that’s become a cornerstone of GWM’s engineering. Producing 135 kW and a muscular 480 Nm of torque, it delivers the kind of grunt that makes light work of hauling heavy loads or tackling steep climbs. Paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, it ensures a seamless flow of power whether you’re cruising on tar or picking your way over challenging terrain.
The combination of torque and smooth gear ratios means the LS pulls confidently in every gear, maintaining fuel efficiency while giving you the punch you need when the job demands it. A towing capacity of up to 3.5 tonnes underscores its serious work credentials, easily handling everything from construction trailers to boats or off-road caravans.
“The P300 LS was developed for customers who refuse to compromise,” says Floyd Ramabulana, Head of Marketing at GWM South Africa. “It’s for those who want more power, more confidence and more style – all wrapped up in a package that’s very competitively priced.”
A lot depends on the application. If you have passengers, the double cap is a better option as the van only has 2 seats. The P300 is also better on gravel and off road for overlanding applications.
Electricians and plumbers might find the van more suitable, while small builders enjoy the rugged nature of a Bakkie for rubble.
Best to drive both vehicles to see which one suits your needs best.
Gregory Simpson
