Automakers in South Africa are banding together in the fight against Covid-19, albeit individually.

The global pandemic has seen a sharp increase in confirmed cases, and even South Africa is not exempt from the spike. 

While that is ongoing, local automakers and others have all assisted in the fight against the coronavirus. Each contribution is unique, and one can be proud of your affiliation to South Africa's automotive industry, no matter the manner.

Here are some contributions of the past week.

Ford keeps giving

No matter where you rank them, Ford South Africa has gone above and beyond in aiding all spheres of essential services in the fight against Covid-19. If it's not with gaining permission to service emergency vehicles during lockdown level 5 (hard lockdown), then they are on the road assisting with the delivery of food parcels and/or medical supplies to whoever needs it.

Ford aiding the fight against Covid-19. Image: QuickPic

This week, the local automaker aligned itself with the South African Red Cross Society who is celebrating World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day on May 8. The association celebrates the millions of volunteers and members in 189 countries around the world. For 2020's celebration, Ford South Africa availed two Ranger bakkies to the Port Elizabeth branch, who will use it in their outreach programs.

Caroline Gallant, SA Red Cross Society provincial manager for the Eastern Cape, says: "Our Red Cross team has relied tremendously on the vehicles provided by Ford, as we don't have a vehicle in Port Elizabeth. We would not have been able to bring the level of relief to communities and support our brave volunteers in the field if it wasn't for this amazing gesture of providing us with the two bakkies on loan."

Neale Hill, managing director of Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa, says: "We applaud each and every healthcare worker, essential services provider and volunteer in the amazing work they have done to support communities affected either directly by the Covid-19 virus, or indirectly through a loss of employment and income during the national lockdown. Non-profit organisations such as the South African Red Cross Society have been instrumental in caring for and protecting human life, health, and dignity throughout this state of disaster.

"We salute their unwavering dedication and commitment to addressing the most critical needs and supporting the most vulnerable members of our communities."

Ford aiding the fight against Covid-19. Image: QuickPic

Mitsubishi goes all-out

It might not be the most influential automaker in South Africa, but Mitsubishi is not resting on its laurels. With its ambassadors in toe, Mitsubishi set about bringing food to those who need it most. The local arm said it concentrated on two projects, from where the food parcels will be distributed.

'The Pebbles Project' and the Rainbow Republic Rugby Program set about feeding residents in informal settlements. Mistubishi is proudly associated with its rugby ambassadors, which include Victor Matfield, Rasta Rashivenga, and Jaco Peyper. The latter two formed an integral part of the automaker's outreach this week.

Nic Campbell, general manager for Mitsubishi Motors South Africa, commented: "A small donation from us can make a world of difference to families in need, especially when children can go to sleep on full tummies. You get a great sense of community and pride when you see members from different business areas coming together in a difficult situation for the good of others. We at Mitsubishi Motors South Africa are extremely honoured and humbled to be part of these projects."

Mitsubishi aiding the fight against Covid-19. Image: QuickPic

15 bakkies from Isuzu

Isuzu South Africa availed 15 of its D-Max bakkies to assist with the transportation of essential personnel, personal protective equipment, and medical supplies. The number of bakkies is an additional contribution to the batch that's already doing duty across South Africa.

The newest deliveries have been delivered to the University of Pretoria's Faculty of Health Sciences.

Craig Uren, Isuzu senior vice president, vehicles, sales, service, and marketing, said: "We are delighted that these vehicles can be utilised by the University to undertake its critically essential and value-adding work.  We pride ourselves in providing transport solutions and being a trusted partner in getting a job done and, more so, to be a beneficial partner during times of crises and disaster.

"During this time of crisis, we strongly believe that it is important that, in collaboration with our partners and stakeholders, we all rally together to do what's in the best interests of the country and our people as a whole."

Isuzu aiding the fight against Covid-19. Image: QuickPic

Compiled by: Charlen Raymond