12:24 pm, October 29, 2026
Another Chinese brand is on its way to the UK as International Motors prepares to launch commercial vehicle firm Foton.
The Beijing-based firm is the latest Chinese manufacturer to target British buyers and will make its UK debut through a partnership with distributor International Motors.
Its first model will be the Tunland, a double-cab pick-up powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine with 48V mild-hybrid assistance, and it’s expected to be followed by an electric van called ‘Cavan’.
The pick-up’s engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic gearbox, while a multi-link rear suspension setup is designed to improve ride comfort, particularly when the vehicle is not carrying a load.
Foton is positioning the Tunland for both commercial and private customers, with seating for five and a conventional pick-up load bed.
Inside, equipment will include a central touchscreen, digital instrument display, automatic climate control, wireless smartphone charging and a panoramic sunroof.
The vehicle will also feature a range of driver-assistance systems, although full UK specifications have yet to be confirmed.
Pricing, trim levels and details of the UK sales and aftersales network will be announced closer to the launch.
The arrival will add another Chinese name to the UK automotive market, although Foton is already an established commercial vehicle manufacturer overseas.
Founded 30 years ago and headquartered in Beijing, the company produces trucks, vans, pick-ups and buses, with more than 13 million vehicles sold globally since its inception.
Its electric commercial vehicles are already available in several European markets, including Germany, Italy and Malta.
Foton previewed its plans for the UK at the Commercial Vehicle Show earlier this year.
David Clark, brand manager at Foton UK, said: ‘The Foton Tunland represents our ambition to offer UK buyers a compelling alternative in the pick-up market.’
The UK launch is being handled by International Motors, which already offers the Mitsubishi L200, Isuzu D-Max and GWM Poer300 in the UK.
Car Dealer recently drove the Poer300 in a massive Chinese car brands video, which you can watch below.
The Tunland is expected to go on sale in early 2027, with further details of the model range and dealerr network due in the coming months.