An energetic young designer from Myexe village outside Giyani has a dream of one day becoming a famous car designer. To prove that he has what it takes, he designed and built his own bakkie, which he calls the Levito 4x2.

The 32-year-old Levito Chauke is a father of two and also a self-taught mechanic. His skills include welding and engineering. Because of being unemployed, he realised that he would not be able to afford a vehicle. Instead of giving up, he decided to build his own bakkie, basing his concept on a Toyota Hilux.

According to Levito, he started building his car in 1999, but was delayed by the 2000 floods. In 2002, however, he went ahead with his plans and he finished the project in 2004.

In March last year, he was stopped by traffic officials in Thohoyandou when he tried to find out the procedure on how to register his vehicle. He had to prove to the police that he had made the car himself and he was asked to show them all the necessary receipts for the parts that he had bought. Chauke is still faced with the hurdle of registering his car.

Three years ago, the Greater Giyani Municipality recognised his efforts by rewarding him with a R15 000 prize for his creativity and the uniqueness of his efforts. He also received R5 000 as winner in the manufacturing category of a competition.

“When I was busy with my project, a number of people approached me and enquired whether I was losing my mind. The same people now want me to offer them a lift when I am cruising in my rare design,” said Chauke. He said his hope is that, some day, one of the South African car manufacturers will approach him and make use of his skills. Chauke said he was very disappointed in the provincial and national department of transport for their lack of assistance.

Phuthi Mavelevele, the provincial Department of Public Transport’s spokesperson, said that they were going to see Chauke and investigate whether the car would need a roadworthy certificate. She said that they would try and link him up with motor vehicle manufacturers.