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CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 More than just another trade show CONEXPO-CON/ AGG has more than 2 000 exhibitors. PAGE 04
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ADTs: Rokbak built to keep earth moving
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CONTENTS Capital Equipment News is published monthly by Crown Publications Managing Editor Wilhelm du Plessis
capnews@crown.co.za Advertising manager Elmarie Stonell elmaries@crown.co.za Writer Juanita Pienaar jpienaar@crown.co.za Design Ano Shumba Publisher Wilhelm du Plessis Managing Director
FEATURES 02 COMMENT Why South Africa still needs equipment expos 04 COVER STORY Cold recycling gains traction as Wirtgen SA introduces Africa’s first W380 CR recycling train
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Karen Grant Circulation Karen Smith
08 CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026
More than just another trade show
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Rokbak built to keep earth moving
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16 uptime
Scania - built for uptime
20 MATERIALS HANDLING Shumani Industrial Equipment driving smarter fleets
24 ELECTRA MINING AFRICA Electra Mining Africa - a platform built for confident capital decisions 28 Tippers Purpose-built tippers designed to work harder, longer 32 TRANSPORT Driving further for better: confident growth through global volatility
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COMMENT
WHY SOUTH AFRICA STILL NEEDS EQUIPMENT EXPOS
and engineers attend these shows to ask hard questions: How does this technology integrate with existing fleets? What is the impact on maintenance skills? What does uptime look like in remote operations? Telematics, in particular, has moved from “nice to have” to operational necessity, with both global OEM systems and South African fleet-management providers using expos to demonstrate real-world performance improvements. Another critical function of expos is their role in deal-making and fleet planning. Large international shows compress months of discussions into a few days by bringing OEMs, dealers, financiers and rental companies into one space. This is especially relevant for South Africa, where rental and used-equipment markets play a major role in project delivery. Timing also matters. bauma and CONEXPO-CON/AGG are global trend- setters, defining product and technology direction for the next two to three years. Electra Mining Africa, taking place later this year in Johannesburg, performs a different but equally vital role: it localises those global trends. It is where South African and African buyers assess whether technologies unveiled abroad are commercially viable, serviceable and compliant within regional regulatory and operational realities. Electra Mining is also unique in its ability to bring together mining, construction, industrial and power- generation stakeholders under one roof. For OEMs and dealers, it is the most efficient way to engage directly with local decision-makers, showcase region-specific configurations and reinforce aftermarket capabilities. Finally, there is the human element, which no digital platform can replace. Capital-equipment decisions are relationship-driven. Trust built through face-to-face engagement underpins everything from warranty negotiations to parts prioritisation during breakdowns. For South African industry stakeholders, the message is clear: expos should be approached as strategic tools, not generic marketing events. bauma and CONEXPO provide global perspective and early visibility; Electra Mining delivers local relevance and commercial traction. Together, they form a pipeline that links innovation to implementation.
I n an era of virtual launches, digital brochures and online demos, it is tempting to question the relevance of large-scale trade expos. Yet for South Africa’s capital-equipment market, where machines represent long-term investments, operational risk is high and aftersales support is decisive, expos remain strategically important. Events such as bauma, CONEXPO-CON/AGG, and Electra Mining Africa each play a distinct role in shaping procurement decisions, technology adoption and dealer strategies across the local market. At their core, expos remain the most effective platforms for physical product validation. Earthmoving, mining and construction equipment cannot be fully assessed through screens. South African
contractors and mine operators want to see build quality, access service points, compare operator environments and interrogate engineering teams directly. This is particularly relevant in a market where machines are expected to perform in harsh conditions and remain productive for many years. Global OEMs with strong South African footprints understand this well. Brands such as Caterpillar (through Barloworld), Bell Equipment, Komatsu, Volvo Construction Equipment, Liebherr, Hitachi Construction Machinery and Epiroc use bauma and CONEXPO to showcase new platforms and technologies, while relying on regional dealers to translate that exposure into local sales and support. For South African buyers, these shows often represent the first step in a procurement journey that ends with a locally supported fleet. Beyond iron, expos are increasingly about technology transfer. bauma and CONEXPO set the global agenda on automation, electrification, digitalisation and sustainability. Battery-electric compact equipment, trolley-assist haulage concepts, hydrogen-ready engines and advanced telematics platforms are no longer theoretical. For South African operations, the relevance lies not in novelty but in applicability. Maintenance managers
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COVER STORY
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Cold recycling gains traction as Wirtgen SA Introduces Africa’s first W380 CR recycling train
South Africa’s ageing road infrastructure is under growing pressure - from material shortages and tightening budgets to rising traffic volumes and sustainability demands. Against this backdrop, cold recycling is emerging as one of the most compelling solutions for long-term, cost-effective road rehabilitation. To explore how this technology is reshaping the industry, Juanita Pienaar spoke with Waylon Kukard, Sales Manager at Wirtgen SA, about the increasing role of cold recycling, the introduction of Africa’s first W380 CR cold recycling train, and what this could mean for the future of road construction and maintenance across the region.
Infrastructure under strain According to Kukard, many of the challenges currently facing road
rehabilitation projects in South Africa mirror those being experienced globally. Chief among them is the growing scarcity of raw materials. “One of the major challenges most countries are facing is the scarcity of material,” he explains. “New quarries are becoming less and less, and environmental approvals are increasingly difficult to obtain. As a result, contractors are being forced to look at rehabilitating existing infrastructure while reusing as much of the material
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CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS FEBRUARY 2026
New quarries are becoming less and less, and environmental approvals are increasingly difficult to obtain. As a result, contractors are being forced to look at rehabilitating existing infrastructure while reusing as much of the material already in place as possible.
Waylon Kukard, Sales Manager at Wirtgen SA.
already in place as possible.” Compounding this issue is the reality that many of South Africa’s roads were built decades ago using high-quality aggregates that are now difficult and costly to source. “We’ve been building roads for a long time, and a lot of the good material has already been used,” Kukard says. “Those roads are now 30 years old, but they lasted because of the quality of the aggregates and asphalt used at the time. That material is still there - it just needs to be reused intelligently.” Budgetary constraints add another layer of complexity. While countries once invested heavily in new road infrastructure, the focus has shifted towards maintenance and rehabilitation. “These large road networks now need to be maintained with limited budgets, while raw materials are becoming more expensive,” Kukard notes. “That’s why alternative rehabilitation methods are no longer optional - they’re essential.” Why cold recycling matters Cold recycling has been part of South Africa’s road construction landscape for more than two decades, but its relevance has increased significantly in recent years. The technology enables contractors to rehabilitate roads using materials already present in the existing structures. “Cold recycling allows you to reuse material that’s already on the road,” says Kukard. “Those materials were originally manufactured to very tight specifications - high-quality crushed aggregates and asphalt - and instead of removing them and dumping them on stockpiles, they can be reprocessed and reused in situ .” In practice, the process involves breaking up the existing road layers, adding stabilising agents such as cement, lime, water, or bitumen emulsion, and then remixing and relaying the material to form a new base course. “In essence, you granulate the existing material, mix in rejuvenators, and place it
QUICK TAKE
Cold recycling has been part of South Africa’s road construction landscape for more than two decades, but its relevance has increased significantly in recent years.
While countries once invested heavily in new road infrastructure, the focus has now shifted towards maintenance and rehabilitation.
Roads rehabilitated using the W380 CR train can be reopened to traffic almost immediately when bitumen- stabilised material is used.
What sets the W380 CR apart is its multifunctional capability. The machine can operate both as a conventional milling machine and as a cold recycler, depending on its direction of travel.
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CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS FEBRUARY 2026
COVER STORY
TAU PELE CONSTRUCTION has just taken delivery of an innovative cold recycling train from WIRTGEN GROUP. The deployment of this train is a culmination of a collaborative effort between the OEM, Wirtgen South Africa, the contractor (Tau Pele), the client (Trans African Concessions) and the engineer (KBK Engineers).
back down,” Kukard explains. “You then finish it with a thin wearing course. It’s an incredibly effective way of rehabilitating roads while minimising waste.” Wirtgen Group’s strength in this area lies in the breadth of its offering. “We don’t believe in a one-size-fits- all approach,” Kukard says. “We offer in-place recycling as well as plant-based recycling options, depending on the severity of the road condition and the project requirements. That flexibility is one of the reasons Wirtgen is regarded as a global leader in cold recycling technology.” A first for Africa: the W380 CR recy- cling train The recent introduction of the W380 CR cold recycling train marks a major milestone - not only for Wirtgen SA, but for the African road construction industry as a whole. “This is the first recycling train of its kind on the African continent,” Kukard says. “It represents the next evolution of cold recycling technology.” What sets the W380 CR apart is its multifunctional capability. The machine can operate both as a conventional milling machine and as a cold recycler, depending on its direction of travel. “When moving in one direction, it functions like a standard milling machine,”
The paver places the material precisely, and compaction, done by 2x Hamm HD+120 tandem rollers and 2x Hamm HP280/24 Ton pneumatic rollers, follows immediately.
Kukard explains. “When working in the opposite direction, it becomes a cold recycler, with the ability to add water, bitumen emulsion, or foamed bitumen directly into the mixing chamber.” The machine’s 3.8-metre working width is another key differentiator. “Most cold recyclers work at around 2.4 metres, which means two passes are needed to complete a single lane,” says Kukard. “With the W380 CR, you can rehabilitate an entire lane in one pass.” Perhaps most significantly, the recycled material is discharged directly into a Vögele S1900-5 X paver, which lays it back down to the correct width, depth, and crossfall in a single operation. “This eliminates the need for a separate grader,” Kukard notes. “The paver places the material precisely, and compaction, done by 2x Hamm HD+120 tandem rollers and 2x Hamm HP280/24 Ton pneumatic
rollers, follows immediately.”
Speed, safety, and productivity gains The implications of this approach are substantial. Roads rehabilitated using the W380 CR train can be reopened to traffic almost immediately when bitumen- stabilised material is used. “With conventional methods, lanes often have to remain closed for days while the bitumen breaks,” Kukard explains. “With this system, the road can be reopened to traffic straight away, which significantly reduces safety risks associated with long closures.” From a productivity perspective, the figures are equally compelling. “We’re talking about production rates of up to 800 tonnes per hour,” says Kukard. “It’s essentially a manufacturing plant on tracks.” Under optimal conditions, the system can
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CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS FEBRUARY 2026
Sustainability and cost savings Cold recycling’s environmental benefits are increasingly difficult to ignore. By reusing existing materials, the process dramatically reduces transport requirements. “You’re transporting up to 90% less material,” Kukard says. “That alone results in CO 2 emission reductions of over 60%.” Material usage is also optimised. “You’re using 100% of what’s already there,” he explains. “You’re not paying to remove material, and you’re not paying to bring new material in.” The financial implications are equally significant. “Construction costs can be reduced by 50% or more,” Kukard notes. “And time savings translate directly into cost savings for contractors.” Collaboration as a success factor Introducing new technology at this scale requires close collaboration between all stakeholders. “This project would not have been possible without alignment between the client, the engineer, and the contractor,” Kukard emphasises. “You need a client willing to trial the technology, an engineer prepared to design around it, and a contractor ready to invest.” Wirtgen SA also played an active role beyond equipment supply. “As the OEM, we understood that we needed to support this project fully,” Kukard says. “That included factory support, on-site commissioning, training, and structured commercial terms.” As material shortages intensify and maintenance backlogs grow, Kukard believes cold recycling will become a cornerstone of future road rehabilitation strategies. “This isn’t a passing trend,” he says. “Cold recycling has proven itself globally as a viable, long-term solution.” With multiple high-profile projects already underway and increasing uptake across Southern Africa, momentum is building. “The future of road rehabilitation lies in technologies that are faster, more sustainable, and more cost-effective,” Kukard concludes. “Cold recycling ticks all those boxes - and we’re only just getting started.” At over 50 tonnes, the machine’s weight enables it to maintain consistent penetration, even in hard pavement structures. b Shaping the future of road rehabilitation
rehabilitate close to a kilometre of road per day. “In a 10-hour shift, you can easily complete a kilometre,” he adds. “The limiting factor is usually logistics - supplying cement and bitumen at the same pace the machine consumes it.” This speed also enables a more strategic approach to rehabilitation. “Instead of patching potholes that reappear weeks later, you’re addressing the real problem - the failing base layers,” Kukard explains. “Potholes aren’t caused by the asphalt surface; they’re caused by the layers underneath being washed away.” Quality through precision Consistency and quality control are central to the W380 CR’s design. The machine uses fully automated, meter-controlled
systems to regulate the addition of water and binder. “The quantities are based on laboratory testing and engineering design,” Kukard explains. “The machine automatically adjusts, regardless of speed or milling depth, to ensure the correct proportions are added.” Another distinguishing feature is the machine’s down-cutting drum design.“Most recyclers use an up-cut method,” says Kukard. “The W380 CR cuts from the top down, which creates a much finer and more uniform material.” At over 50 tonnes, the machine’s weight enables it to maintain consistent penetration, even in hard pavement structures. “That mass allows the drum to work effectively without the risk of the machine lifting or losing traction,” Kukard adds.
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CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS FEBRUARY 2026
CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026
F or South African procurement global product pipelines, dealer networks, telematics standards, electrification plans and rental business models are revealed months - sometimes years - before they hit local markets. Here’s how this global show directly influences the South African capital- leaders, dealers, rental companies and fleet managers, CONEXPO is a strategic touchpoint where equipment market - with concrete examples of participating OEMs and technology vendors relevant to South African contexts. Earthmoving and heavy-equipment OEMs: product launches that matter One of the most important facets of CONEXPO for South African buyers is the earthmoving segment - because up-to- date loaders, excavators, dozers and haul trucks are core to mining, civil works and infrastructure projects. At CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, major global OEMs confirmed to exhibit include:
More than just another trade show CONEXPO-CON/AGG is not just “another trade show.” Held every three years in Las Vegas, it is the largest construction and heavy equipment expo in the world, bringing more than 2 000 exhibitors to showcase the latest machines, digital platforms and industrial innovations - and South African capital- equipment stakeholders pay attention for very specific reasons.
For South African procurement leaders, dealers, rental companies and fleet managers, CONEXPO is a strategic touchpoint where global product pipelines, dealer networks, telematics standards, electrification plans and rental business models are revealed months - sometimes years - before they hit local markets.
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CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS FEBRUARY 2026
• Liebherr Construction Equipment - major presence with cranes, earthmoving and technology displays across a huge stand, crucial for buyers evaluating lift- integrated or smart construction tech. • Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) - bringing next-generation articulated haul trucks like the A60 articulated hauler, which integrates telematics and productivity enhancements that South African quarry and mining firms prize. Hitachi, Kobelco and Develon - also confirmed with heavy equipment exhibits across earthmoving and foundation gear, offering South African equip buyers comparisons across global brands. For South African fleets, seeing actual machines in motion, not just catalogue specs, helps narrow capital investment decisions and assess total cost of ownership before purchase or import. Road haulage, heavy trucks and haul- ing systems The hauling segment, especially heavy trucks that move materials between mines, quarries and urban worksites, is another priority category for South African operators. At CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, several leading heavy road-haulage producers and truck OEMs will be exhibiting, including: • Kenworth and Peterbilt - North American heavy truck leaders whose models are often evaluated by South African fleet buyers for rugged, long- haul capacity. • Mack Trucks - showcasing heavy-duty vocational trucks suitable for tough applications in infrastructure and mining logistics. • International Trucks - featuring robust solutions for off-road and commercial transport that complement haulage operations. Importantly, these manufacturers also link their trucks to OEM-agnostic telematics and fleet-management systems - bringing fleet data into one pane of glass for South African operators. Telematics and digital platforms: the data revolution CONEXPO now dedicates substantial space to construction technology - and this is where South African companies gain edge in productivity, uptime and maintenance efficiency. Key telematics and software vendors confirmed for the 2026 show include: • HCSS (Heavy Construction Systems Specialists) - leaders in fleet and project management software. • Hexagon - digital solutions for precision measurement and data integration, vital
• Caterpillar - showcasing new motor graders, excavators and autonomous features, plus enhanced Fleet Management and VisionLink telematics tools that improve productivity and safety on large sites.
• John Deere/Wirtgen Group - planning to launch 24 new machines, encompassing asphalt, compaction, milling and heavy duty earthmoving equipment - directly informing what specification options South African buyers will compare next cycle.
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CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS FEBRUARY 2026
CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026
electrification include: • Volvo Penta - showcasing Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and future electric driveline components for equipment OEMs. • Bonfiglioli - presenting electric and hydraulic drive solutions that support electrified earthmoving equipment and hybrid systems — critical for lower operating emissions. South African specifiers, especially in urban or environmental-sensitive projects, are watching these tech roadmaps to plan future fleet turnovers in project bids that favour low emissions or zero-emission equipment. Rental providers and new ownership models While global OEMs form the backbone of capital investment, equipment rental companies - which many South African firms use to scale without heavy capex - also have a presence at CONEXPO. At the 2026 show, major rental and service-model innovators include: CASE Construction Equipment - whose display emphasises practical solutions for rental businesses and crews alike. JLG - vertical lifts and access equipment often integrated into rental fleets — helpful for South African rental houses. Manitou and Tadano - mobile lifting and telehandler brands commonly stocked by rentals globally. Brokk and Husqvarna - demolition and accessory rentals that broaden rental offerings. For South African rental businesses, CONEXPO is a window into what equipment end-users will request next, and which OEMs are committed to supporting rentals with parts, training and warranty support in new markets. b
for engineering accuracy. • Autodesk - whose digital design and mobile platforms are increasingly integrated with machine data. • Tenna - IoT-driven fleet tracking and analytics — a partner of rental companies and fleets globally. Data from telematics platforms helps South African fleets improve asset utilisation, schedule maintenance proactively, and benchmark unit
performance across different job sites - all crucial in a market with high operating costs and tight project margins. Electrification and sustainable power- train technologies Electrification and low-emission drivetrains are reshaping equipment choices worldwide - and CONEXPO 2026 is spotlighting this trend. Examples of exhibitors pushing maintenance costs. The sheer scale of the event - thousands of exhibitors including every major OEM and technology provider in earthmoving, haulage, telematics, electrification and rentals - gives South African stakeholders a single venue to validate product claims, meet engineers and negotiate pilot projects before local roll-out. CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 is more than a trade show - it is a strategic sourcing and technology benchmarking event that helps shape what machines South African buyers specify, how fleets are managed, the technologies adopted for productivity, and which partners
Why South African stakeholders should engage deeply The relevance of CONEXPO to the South African capital-equipment market goes beyond travel. In tangible terms: • Procurement teams use global OEM roadmaps to forecast fleet refresh cycles and budget. • Dealers benchmark competitive offers before committing import contracts or regional distribution agreements. • Rental houses map machines that yield the best utilisation in African civil and mining sectors. • Fleet managers adopt telematics standards that reduce downtime and predict
support those investments for years. From Caterpillar and Volvo CE’s heavy
equipment launches, to telemetry platforms from Autodesk and HCSS, electrification solutions from Volvo Penta and Bonfiglioli, and rental- focused equipment from Case and JLG, this expo informs the capital-equipment strategies of entire industries back home. For South African decision-makers, the question isn’t whether to engage with CONEXPO but how to leverage its global insights for competitive advantage in a market where uptime, cost-efficiency and technological leadership matter most.
CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS FEBRUARY 2026 10
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ADTs
Rokbak built to keep earth moving Juanita Pienaar spoke with Rokbak senior product manager Scott Pollock about how the articulated hauler specialist designs for durability, maximises uptime, and supports customers operating in some of the world’s toughest conditions.
long-term customer partnerships. According to Scott Pollock, senior product manager at Rokbak, the
conversation around uptime must begin long before a truck ever turns a wheel on site. “Uptime starts with meeting the customer’s requirements for high- production environments,” he explains. “Rokbak trucks are designed, tested, and manufactured to meet those expectations.” That emphasis on purpose-built design underpins the brand’s approach, but Pollock is quick to stress that even the most robust machine cannot operate in isolation. “What I always try to stress is that a truck is only as productive as the care it receives,” he says. “That’s why aftermarket preparation, maintenance planning, and correct operation are all critical.” This whole-life mindset, from specification and manufacturing through to daily operation and long- term maintenance, is central to how Rokbak positions its RA30 and RA40 articulated haulers in demanding applications worldwide. Designing for reliability, not recovery At the core of Rokbak’s uptime strategy is a focus on preventing problems rather than reacting to them. Structurally, the trucks are designed for the duty cycles they are expected to endure, with robustness validated through extensive
What I always try to stress is that a truck is only as productive as the care it receives. That’s why aftermarket preparation, maintenance planning, and correct operation are all critical.
Rokbak Senior Product Manager, Scott Pollock,
I n high-production mining, quar- rying, and construction environ- ments, downtime is expensive. Ev- ery unplanned stop ripples through an operation, affecting productivity, costs, and project timelines. Rokbak,
a manufacturer of articulated haulers headquartered in Motherwell, Scot- land, treats uptime not as a single design metric, but as the outcome of an integrated philosophy that spans engineering, support, digital tools, and
CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS FEBRUARY 2026 12
testing and real-world performance. “From a design perspective, the foundation of our trucks is robust structures that are properly designed and thoroughly tested for their intended duty cycles,” says Pollock. “Rokbak trucks have been in the market for several years now, and their track record confirms their reliability and dependability.” However, durability is not limited to steel thickness or frame design. Modern articulated haulers must also protect themselves from misuse or abnormal operating conditions that can accelerate wear or trigger failures. To address this, Rokbak incorporates safety devices and operational inhibitors that actively reduce risk. “Beyond structure, we incorporate safety devices and operational inhibitors that protect the truck from out-of-condition operation,” Pollock explains. “As part of our automation journey, certain functions are designed to safeguard both the operator and the machine itself.” By limiting component stress and preventing improper operation, these systems play a direct role in reducing unplanned downtime. Pollock adds that this is not a static process. “This continual development helps prevent misuse, reduce component stress, and avoid unplanned downtime,” he says, reinforcing that reliability is continually refined rather than fixed at launch. A whole-machine approach to durability In harsh mining and construction environments, long-term performance depends on more than individual components. Rokbak’s philosophy is rooted in what Pollock describes as a “whole-machine approach”. “Long-term durability comes from a whole-machine approach,” he says. “Structural integrity isn’t just about the frame, it’s about how the entire truck works together in extreme conditions.” To achieve this, Rokbak carefully selects suppliers and integrates proven components across the driveline, hydraulics, and powertrain. Engines, gearboxes, and axles are chosen for their established performance in demanding applications, but they are not simply installed and left to operate independently. “These components are then validated as part of the complete truck to ensure they deliver both longevity and consistent performance,” Pollock explains. This integration is particularly important when balancing fuel efficiency with durability and power output - a challenge faced by all heavy equipment manufacturers as customers seek lower
In high-production mining, quarrying, and construction environments, downtime is expensive.
Rokbak treats uptime not as a single design metric, but as the outcome of an integrated philosophy that spans engineering, support, digital tools, and long-term customer partnerships.
At the core of Rokbak’s uptime strategy is a focus on preventing problems rather than reacting to them.
From a design perspective, the foundation of Rokbak;s trucks is robust structures that are properly designed and thoroughly tested for their intended duty cycles.
operating costs without sacrificing productivity. “Component integration is absolutely critical. Truck performance is a collaboration,” Pollock says. “Fuel efficiency, productivity, and durability are all influenced by how well the above elements work together.” With fuel representing one of the highest operating costs for fleet owners, every design decision is scrutinised. “Fuel is one of the biggest costs for customers, so every design
decision considers its impact on efficiency without compromising durability or productivity,” he adds. Extending service intervals, extending value Operational lifespan is another area where Rokbak has focused on delivering tangible benefits for customers. For the RA30 and RA40 models, this has translated into extended maintenance intervals that keep trucks working longer between scheduled stops.
CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS FEBRUARY 2026 13
ADTs
success remain constant. “Rokbak trucks are operating around the world. Regardless of location, the same principles for success apply: correct specification, validated design, and proper support ensure consistent performance in demanding environments worldwide.” Lowering total cost of ownership From a customer perspective, uptime and durability ultimately translate into total cost of ownership (TCO). Rokbak’s strategy is explicitly focused on keeping this figure as low and predictable as possible. “The customer is always at the centre of our requirements,” Pollock says. “Total cost of ownership is reduced through reliability, extended service intervals, fuel efficiency, and predictable maintenance planning.” By reducing unplanned downtime, operators can move more material with fewer interruptions. “By keeping trucks productive for longer periods and reducing unplanned downtime, customers can move more material at a lower operational cost, which directly improves their margins,” he explains. Extended service intervals again play a crucial role. “Using modern fluids and filtration systems allows longer service periods for transmissions and hydraulics, reducing both downtime and maintenance costs,” Pollock says. “The longer a truck can operate without scheduled stops, the more productive it becomes and the lower its lifecycle cost to the customer.” Support that starts before the sale For Rokbak, support is not an aftermarket add-on but an integral part of the uptime equation. Pollock emphasises that engagement begins well before a truck is delivered. “Support starts before the truck is sold,” he says. “Pre-sales teams work with customers to understand job site conditions and ensure the correct specification is supplied.” Once the truck is operational, that support continues through trained service partners, verified spare parts, and proactive maintenance planning. “Once the truck is in operation, trained service partners, correct tools, verified spare parts, and proactive maintenance planning ensure the truck remains productive,” Pollock explains. “It’s a continuous process that supports uptime throughout the truck’s life.” Digital visibility and predictive maintenance Digital tools are increasingly central
Consistent performance in extreme conditions Rokbak haulers are deployed across a wide range of climates and applications, from freezing northern environments to hot, abrasive quarry operations. Designing for this diversity requires a clear understanding of how trucks are used in reality. “Rokbak trucks are designed with the understanding that they will operate in extreme environments, moving heavy payloads and on challenging ground conditions,” Pollock says. “That means robust structures, proven driveline components, effective cooling systems, and traction control designed specifically for articulated hauler applications.” While conditions vary globally, Pollock notes that the principles of
“Operational lifespan is supported through robust design, proven components, and disciplined maintenance strategies,” Pollock explains. “We’ve extended maintenance intervals by using modern fluids and advanced filtration systems, which helps protect critical systems while reducing scheduled downtime.” The figures are significant. “Transmission service intervals have been extended from 2 000 to 4 000 hours on the RA30 and up to 6,000 hours on the RA40, with 4 000-hour hydraulic service intervals,” he says. For operators, this means fewer interruptions, improved productivity, and lower lifecycle costs. “These measures allow customers to keep their trucks working longer between stops, improving productivity and lowering lifecycle costs,” Pollock adds.
CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS FEBRUARY 2026 14
to modern fleet management, and Rokbak’s Haul Track telematics
to operator comfort, such as improved HVAC systems and automated controls, recognising that a comfortable operator is a productive operator,” Pollock notes. At the same time, environmental considerations are shaping design decisions. “Environmental responsibility is very important for Rokbak,” he says. “All Rokbak trucks are HVO-compliant, allowing customers to reduce CO 2 emissions immediately where fuel availability allows.” Extended service intervals also deliver environmental benefits. “By extending maintenance intervals, we reduce the disposal of oils, fluids, and filters,” Pollock explains. “We’re not just waiting for future technologies. We’re already implementing practical solutions that deliver environmental benefits today.” Proven performance in the field Real-world performance ultimately defines any machine, and Pollock points to a recent aggregate operation in Alberta, Canada, as a clear example of the capabilities of Rokbak trucks. “After purchasing their first RA40, the customer quickly added two more, a clear endorsement of the truck’s performance and reliability,” he says.
The trucks have accumulated significant hours in demanding conditions. “The trucks have each logged over 3 000 operating hours, consistently handling heavy loads, variable ground conditions, and harsh weather while maintaining strong uptime,” Pollock explains. Operator feedback has been equally positive. “Operators report that the trucks are stable, comfortable, and easy to run throughout long shifts, supporting high production without disruption,” he says. While this project stands out, Pollock emphasises that it is not unique. “We’re particularly proud of this project as it has highlighted how Rokbak haulers deliver dependable performance and durability in real-world, high-demand aggregate environments. But it’s not just in North America – we have many case studies like this across the globe.” By aligning robust engineering, integrated components, digital tools, and comprehensive support, Rokbak continues to position its articulated haulers as trucks built not just to work hard, but to keep working. In an industry where uptime defines success, that philosophy resonates strongly with fleet owners looking for long-term value in the toughest conditions. b
system is designed to support predictive maintenance rather than reactive repairs. “Rokbak’s Haul Track telematics system allows customers and dealers to monitor truck performance remotely,” Pollock says. “It tracks operating conditions, fault codes, temperatures, pressures, and upcoming maintenance intervals.” This visibility enables early intervention. “This enables proactive intervention before issues escalate into failures,” he adds. Beyond maintenance, Haul Track also delivers operational insights. “Haul Track also supports payload analysis and production tracking, giving customers clear insight into how much material is being moved and at what cost,” Pollock explains. Importantly for mixed fleets, the system is designed to integrate seamlessly. “Haul Track is AEMP 2.0 compliant, allowing integration into mixed-fleet monitoring systems so customers can manage multiple OEM machines through a single platform,” he says. Comfort, efficiency, and environmental responsibility Recent innovations at Rokbak have also focused on the human element. “Recent developments include enhancements
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CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS FEBRUARY 2026 15
UPTIME
Scania - built for uptime Juanita Pienaar spoke with Wesley Cloete, Managing Director of Cloete’s Sand and Stone, about operating in one of South Africa’s most demanding sectors and why Scania has become a key partner in maintaining uptime, efficiency, and resilience across the company’s fleet.
uptime is everything.”
Aftermarket service that keeps trucks moving While vehicle specification and fuel efficiency play an important role, Cloete is clear that Scania’s aftermarket support is the cornerstone of the relationship. “One of the biggest things for us is reducing running costs, and that’s been achieved through fuel efficiency and uptime,” he explains. “But where Scania really stands out is their aftersales service. If we report a breakdown to their Scania Assistance room, they are the quickest of all the OEMs we work with to get that vehicle back on the road.” He points to a recent incident that left a lasting impression. “We had a vehicle with a clutch failure and an engine mounting failure - not a small job by any means. We reported it around midday, and because Scania had the parts on hand, they worked through the night. That vehicle was released back to us at seven o’clock the next morning. That’s unheard of.” According to Cloete, Scania’s approach
Scania supports Cloete’s Sand and Stone in a high-pressure materials market Operating in the construction materials sector has never been easy, but in recent years, the pressure has intensified. Rising costs, tight margins, ageing infrastructure, and ongoing market uncertainty have forced operators to reassess how they run their fleets and where they place their trust. For Cloete’s Sand and Stone, uptime, reliability, and aftersales support have become non-negotiable - and this is where Scania has carved out a distinct role in the business. Based in Gauteng with a second
operation in the Western Cape, Cloete’s Sand and Stone supplies aggregates and materials to construction projects across its respective regions. The company operates a fleet of 82 trucks, of which 21 are Scania vehicles, deployed across demanding site conditions where downtime quickly translates into lost revenue. “There’s definitely been pressure on the construction industry over the last few years,” says Cloete. “If you’re running older fleets, your uptime is not where it needs to be. Guys end up having to run maybe a 25% bigger fleet than they actually need, simply because vehicles are down so often. For us,
CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS FEBRUARY 2026 16
to parts availability and responsiveness reflects a deeper commitment to customer uptime. “They really take customers’ uptime seriously. If they don’t have a part, they’ll fly it in or even cannibalise another unit to get you running again. That mindset makes a huge difference in our industry.” Comfort, fatigue, and driver preference Beyond mechanical performance, Cloete highlights another advantage that directly affects productivity: driver comfort. “The comfort level in a Scania is notable,” he says. “Fatigue is a big issue in our industry. We work long hours, and if a driver is more comfortable, he fatigues less, makes fewer mistakes, and causes less damage to the vehicle.” He adds that the preference among drivers is unmistakable. “There’s a fight to drive the Scania vehicles. Everyone wants to be in them.” Cloete attributes this to a combination of suspension design, ergonomics, and drivetrain technology. “The cab has air suspension, the seat is on air, and the way the gearbox software operates is incredibly smooth. It feels like
While vehicle specification and fuel efficiency play an important role, Scania’s aftermarket support is the cornerstone of the relationship.
Scania’s approach to parts availability and responsiveness reflects a deeper commitment to customer uptime.
Driver comfort can be attributed to a combination of suspension design, ergonomics, and drivetrain technology.
This resale value feeds directly into fleet renewal cycles, and this allows Cloete’s Sand and Stone to reinvest strategically while maintaining cash flow.
CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS FEBRUARY 2026 17
UPTIME
an automatic, even though it’s a manual gearbox controlled by the computer. The driver doesn’t have to focus on gear changes - he can just focus on the road.” So pronounced is the difference that Cloete notices it personally. “Even when I jump from a Scania into my private car, my car feels hard compared to the truck. It’s actually crazy.” Specifying the right truck for the job Cloete’s Sand and Stone operates in varied environments, from urban construction sites to quarry operations, and matching the right vehicle to the task is a constant process of refinement. “We don’t want to put ourselves in a box,” Cloete explains. “We’re constantly trying different specifications - different horsepower ratings, different configurations - to see where we can improve fuel efficiency or extend engine life.” Scania’s willingness to customise each customers' vehicle plays a significant role here. “They’re willing to sit down with you and tailor-make a solution. You can specify exactly what you need, and they’ll work with you to try different variants. Some combinations work better than others, but they’re always willing to engage and assist.” This collaborative approach, Cloete says, sets Scania apart. “They’re not just deciding in isolation what the market
needs. They engage with multiple customers, gather feedback, and then apply that insight when developing or specifying equipment. That partnership approach is impressive.” Balancing durability with rapid support While Cloete is candid about areas where improvement is possible, he believes Scania’s strengths outweigh any shortcomings. “There are certain items where we think durability could be better compared to some other OEMs,” he notes. “But they make up for it with their aftermarket service. If something does fail, they fix it faster than anyone else, and it doesn’t cost us extra.” In a high-volume materials handling environment, that balance is critical. “Ultimately, a truck standing still costs you money. Fast turnaround times keep us operational, and that’s what matters most.” Sub Header: Strong resale value and financial flexibility From an asset management perspective, Cloete sees long-term value in Scania vehicles. “Scania holds its value exceptionally well. We know that after five or six years, the vehicle will still retain a strong percentage of its original value, and that benefits our bottom line.”
This resale value feeds directly into fleet renewal cycles, allowing Cloete’s Sand and Stone to reinvest strategically while maintaining cash flow. Scania’s finance offering further supports this flexibility. “The process is easy, professional, and transparent. They’ve actually given us a larger facility than we currently need, which means we can scale quickly if the market demands it.” A partnership built on understanding Looking ahead, Cloete believes Scania’s role as a partner, rather than simply a supplier, will remain central to the business. “They understand our requirements, they listen, and they adapt their offering accordingly. That’s what partnership means to us.” His advice to other operators is straightforward: “Take the time to sit down with the Scania team. Explain your operation properly and let them propose solutions. Don’t just ask for a specific model - allow them to add value.” In an industry where uptime defines success and resilience determines survival, Cloete’s Sand and Stone’s experience underscores the importance of choosing partners who understand the realities on the ground - and are willing to work through them, day and night. b
CAPITAL EQUIPMENT NEWS FEBRUARY 2026 18
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2023 Attendee Mike Simon, Dirt Perfect Excavation
MATERIALS HANDLING
A sector under pressure to perform Across South Africa’s warehouses, factories, and distribution centres, materials handling fleets are being asked to do more with less. Rising operating costs, tighter margins, and heightened safety and sustainability expectations are forcing companies to rethink how they deploy, manage, and power their equipment. For providers such as Shumani Industrial Equipment, this pressure is translating into a clear focus on efficiency, fleet optimisation, and the rapid evolution of technology. Nemukula says the conversation with customers has changed markedly in recent years. “Customer needs have increased,” he explains. “They want cheaper, good-quality equipment. The days of offering them highly expensive branded equipment are behind us.” This shift is not about compromising on performance or reliability, but about finding smarter, more flexible ways to deliver value over the full lifecycle of the fleet. At the centre of this evolution is a combination of data-driven decision-making, Shumani Industrial Equipment Driving Smarter Fleets Capital Equipment News’ Juanita Pienaar spoke to Shumani Industrial Equipment Managing Director Victor Nemukula about how materials handling providers are responding to rising efficiency demands, accelerating electrification, and the growing role of smart fleet technologies in South Africa.
electrification, and a more hands-on approach to support and maintenance. Fleet optimisation through data and visibility One of the most significant trends shaping the materials handling sector is the growing emphasis on understanding how fleets are actually used. According to Nemukula, efficiency starts with visibility. “So far we’re giving companies tools that allow them to monitor fleet utilisation and safety,” he says. “These allow them to plan properly and manage their costs.” Fleet management technologies have become the most widely adopted digital tools among Shumani’s customers. By tracking utilisation, operators can identify underused machines, peak demand periods, and inefficiencies that would otherwise remain hidden. This data then feeds directly into smarter deployment decisions, helping businesses right- size their fleets rather than defaulting to overcapacity as a buffer against downtime. Beyond technology, Shumani also supports customers with the interpretation of this information. “Apart from technologies, we assist with data for them to make informed decisions on the deployment of their fleet,” Nemukula
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