Oct 25, 2010 2:54 PM

NC2 Global LLC, the global joint venture between Caterpillar Inc and Navistar Inc, has launched operations in South Africa, where it will market a full line of commercial trucks under both the International and Cat brands.

The company, which will do business locally as NC2 Trucks Southern Africa, succeeds the previous entity, Navistar International Trucks Southern Africa, and has acquired all its assets. Existing International truck dealers and staff will continue to serve customers as part of an expanding network of 17 dealers.

NC2’s initial product lineup in South Africa will continue to be led by the International 9800 series of cabover long-haul tractors, including the 9800e and the 9800i 6x4. Both models are powered by the Cummins ISX engine, which is rated at 298kW for the 9800e and at 355kW for the 9800i.

Recently introduced in South Africa is the International WorkStar conventional truck, which replaces the International 7600. The WorkStar comes with a six-cylinder, in-line Cummins ISM engine rated at 298kW.

NC2’s South African assets also include a full assembly facility at Apex, Benoni, which has the capacity to assemble 350 trucks per month; and a 4,200-square-meter parts distribution center in Midrand, Gauteng.