JAC Motors, a leading Chinese car manufacturer and valued Engen Lubricants customer, has officially shattered the South African 24-hour Endurance Record for bakkies, covering 4 084 kilometres at an average speed of 170.1 km/h.

The record-breaking feat took place from 17:30 on 13 April 2025 to 17:30 on 14 April 2025 at the high-speed oval track at Gerotek, just outside Pretoria. The challenge showcased the uncompromising reliability, strength, and engineering of the JAC T9 2.0L CTi – powered throughout by Engen’s Dynamic Diesel and high-performance lubricants.

Engen supplied its 10W-40 CK-4 Fully Synthetic Engine Oil, which was introduced across the JAC Motors product range in June 2024. Designed to perform under extreme stress, the oil delivers enhanced thermal stability, superior wear protection, and extends service intervals to 20,000 km — making it the ideal choice for high-endurance performance.

“This achievement is a proud moment for JAC and a testament to the durability of our vehicles,” said Karl-Heinz Göbel, CEO of JAC Motors South Africa. “Choosing Engen as our Fuels & Lubricants partner gave us the confidence to push the limits, knowing our engine would remain protected and deliver peak performance under the most demanding conditions.” 

The endurance drive, the brainchild of content creator and adventurer Danie Botha, involved a single JAC T9 driven by four seasoned racing instructors, covering over 1,350 laps of the Gerotek track. Despite taking a casual approach to pit stops and relying on minimal tools, the T9 powered through 24 hours at maximum speed — showcasing the critical role of Engen Lubricants in enabling consistent performance with average fuel consumption of just 16.5L/100 km.

Engen’s B2B Marketing Manager Adnaan Emeran added: “We’re incredibly proud to partner with JAC in this record-setting performance. Our Fuels & Lubricants are engineered for endurance, efficiency, and extreme reliability — and this milestone affirms Engen’s role in supporting next-generation automotive innovation.”

“The achievement comes hot on the heels of other Engen-supported events and positions Engen Fuels & Lubricants as a go-to solution for automative manufacturers seeking trusted performance under pressure”, said Tariq Ahmed, Direct Sales Marketing Manager. 

The record-setting T9 will be on display at the JAC Motors stand (F2a) at Nampo Park, Bothaville from 13–16 May 2025, where visitors can test-drive the T9 and T8 models. The full 

24-hour challenge will be broadcast on Ignition TV (DStv Channel 189) on 19 May, with repeat airings through 25 May.