✏️ BY: Dr. Hana Saada
Algiers, Algeria | June 30th, 2024 — The National Company of Industrial Vehicles (SNVI) has made a significant comeback, showcasing three new truck models at both the International Exhibition of Thermal, Electric, and Hybrid Vehicles in Oran and the Algiers International Fair (FIA). This resurgence marks a revitalization of the renowned Algerian brand, complemented by the display of several buses and coaches.
Revitalization Through Strategic Partnerships
Since its acquisition by the Department of Mechanical Industry of the Ministry of National Defense (MDN), SNVI has entered into a technological partnership with Mercedes-Benz. This collaboration focuses on the production of trucks, utility vehicles, and 4x4s under the German marque. This strategic move has enabled SNVI to integrate advanced technologies, leveraging the skills of Algerian professionals across various specializations, thereby elevating the production standards to exceptional levels.
Modern and Robust New Models
At the military industry pavilion during the 55th edition of the FIA, SNVI’s new models have attracted significant attention. These include the K 7.5, set to replace the K66 with a gross weight of 7.5 tons, the KM 7.5 with a gross weight of 9.5 tons, and the K 12, a developed version of the famous K120 with a gross weight of 12 tons. These models combine modern design with robustness, highlighting SNVI’s ability to keep pace with technological advancements.
Expanding Production Capabilities
The Automotive Industry Development Establishment in Tiaret, which produces Mercedes-Benz and Sonacome trucks, falls under the purview of the Directorate of Military Industries of the Ministry of National Defense. According to a representative from this establishment, six models have been unveiled at the fair, including three newly developed trucks and three buses. These include two buses with 33 and 49 seats respectively, and an urban transport bus with a capacity of up to 100 passengers. These models, intended for public and private enterprises as well as individuals, are slated for production and market release in 2025, thanks to Algerian expertise and support from a Chinese consortium.
Mastery of Production and Supply Chains
The official highlighted that the mastery of production and supply chains allows SNVI to offer a wide range of all-terrain vehicles, vans, trucks of various tonnages, buses, and trailers. The combined production capacity of the Tiaret and Rouiba factories, both under the military department, is estimated at 6000 Mercedes-Benz vehicles (including Sprinter vans and G-Class 4x4s) and 2000 trucks, with an additional production of 1000 Sonacome vehicles.
A Legacy of Robust Vehicles
SNVI, known for its production of robust trucks like the K66, K120, B 260, and C 266 over the past 50 years, is now transitioning to modern standards with a new range of trucks, including refrigerated versions, as well as new G-Class 4x4s and Sprinter vans configured as mobile clinics and campers.
Technical Advancements
While specific technical details are sparse, it is known that the K 12 model is powered by a 157 hp turbo-diesel engine, paired with a six-speed manual transmission. Unlike its predecessors, this model comes well-equipped with features such as a radio-CD with Bluetooth, a multifunction steering wheel with controls, electric windows, and front and side mirrors for blind spots.
The resurgence of SNVI, marked by these innovations and strategic partnerships, signals a promising future for the Algerian automotive industry, combining local expertise with global technological advancements.
Overview of SNVI: Algeria’s Leading Industrial Vehicle Manufacturer
The National Society of Industrial Vehicles (SNVI), formerly known as the National Society of Mechanical Construction (SONACOME), is a prominent manufacturer of industrial vehicles and buses based in Algiers, Algeria. SNVI designs and produces medium and heavy utility vehicles, buses for urban and interurban transport, and specialized vehicles such as fire trucks, off-road vehicles, and military and civil protection vehicles.
Historical Background
SNVI traces its origins back to the African Automobile Company Berliet (SAAB), which established operations in Algeria in 1957. The company was officially created by Ordinance No. 67-150 on August 9, 1967, with a mandate to manage and operate public sector mechanical construction plants. Initially organized into ten divisions, one of which was the Industrial Vehicles Division (DVI), it eventually evolved into the National Society of Industrial Vehicles (SNVI).
In May 1995, SNVI transitioned to a Public Economic Enterprise governed by common law, becoming a Joint Stock Company (SPA) with a capital of 2.2 billion dinars. In October 2011, SNVI restructured into an Industrial Group consisting of a parent company and four subsidiaries. Over the years, SNVI has launched several new products, including the K66 truck in 2012, and introduced the first Mercedes-Benz civilian bus assembled in Algeria in 2015.
Development and Achievements
SNVI has continuously expanded its operations and capabilities. In 2015, the company produced 1,135 trucks, and in the same year, secured a substantial credit of 92 billion dinars from a consortium of five public banks to fund its development projects. The company has showcased various innovations, such as the Atakor 4×4 bus at the 25th Algerian Production Fair in 2016, and the Salama mini-bus in 2017, designed for school transport with an 85% integration rate and 2,000 units built and delivered by September 2018.
In 2019, SNVI became a member of the board of the Constantine Mechanical Research Center, aligning academic research with industrial needs. In 2021, the company was slated to be overseen by the Central Directorate of Military Industry under the Algerian Ministry of National Defense, as part of a strategic plan to integrate civil and military industrial activities.
Global Reach and Exportation
SNVI’s export portfolio includes a range of products shipped to various countries, such as Mali, the Republic of Congo, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Iraq, Libya, Mauritania, Niger, Senegal, Tunisia, Russia, France, and Zambia. This international presence underscores SNVI’s capability and reputation as a significant player in the industrial vehicle manufacturing sector.
Facilities and Production
The company’s headquarters is located in Algiers, with a major manufacturing plant for heavy-duty vehicles in Rouïba, 30 km east of Algiers. Additional production facilities include a body manufacturing plant in Tiaret and several branches across major Algerian cities, including Constantine, Oran, Ouargla, Tizi Ouzou, Tlemcen, Béchar, Annaba, and Sétif. SNVI’s product range includes various types of trucks, buses, industrial bodies, and specialized equipment, demonstrating its versatility and capacity to meet diverse transportation and industrial needs.
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