Cheap Chinese trucks are now a reality: Foton shakes up the market from €12,790

The Asian offensive shows no signs of slowing and is now targeting the urban professional transport sector head-on, with prices that put traditional manufacturers under serious pressure.

Cheap Chinese trucks are no longer a promise for the future, but a tangible reality. After conquering segments such as passenger cars, motorcycles and camper vans, Asian brands are now advancing strongly into the commercial vehicle market. A clear example is Foton, a brand belonging to the BAIC Group, which has launched a wide range of light trucks designed to meet multiple professional needs, with truly competitive entry-level prices.

Foton S513: the most affordable entry point to a modern urban truck

Within the range, the spotlight is firmly on the Foton S513, the most affordable model and the one that best illustrates this new trend. With a starting price of ‚¬12,790 (excluding VAT and with promotional offers applied), this truck delivers a payload capacity of up to 3,540 kg, a highly relevant figure for its class. Under the bonnet sits a 2.8-litre diesel engine producing 150 hp with Isuzu technology, paired with a ZF transmission, a supplier well known for gearboxes used by premium European brands–an important boost to its technical credibility.

Designed primarily for urban use, the S513 features hydraulic power steering, ABS braking, and a configuration clearly aimed at light-load distribution in city environments. According to Foton, its balance of size, manoeuvrability and robustness makes it an ideal tool for daily deliveries, where efficiency and reliability are essential.

Thanks to its compact chassis, sturdy bodywork and 180 mm of ground clearance, the S513 also performs well in more demanding environments or hard-to-reach areas. It is further supported by an 80-litre fuel tank, enough to cover long working days without frequent refuelling–an important advantage for professionals and fleet operators alike.

Inside, the two-seat cab offers a functional level of equipment: an audio system with MP3 player and USB port, electric windows, central locking, an adjustable steering wheel, four-level heating and a three-speed windscreen wiper. In line with the latest-generation diesel passenger cars, it also includes an AdBlue tank to reduce NOx emissions. Backed by a three-year or 100,000 km warranty, the Foton S513 makes it clear that the arrival of these Chinese trucks in Europe–and soon in Spain–is only the beginning of a profound shift in the light commercial vehicle market.