Jan 15, 2025 Buzz

Innovation, the most relevant factor in the spanish component industry in 2024

With the close of 2024, the Spanish brands integrated into Autoparts from Spain have once again demonstrated their ability to meet the demands of an international market undergoing a full transformation towards electric, sustainable and digital mobility. The year's results confirm that innovation applied to key automotive component products — ranging from delivery vehicle components to specific…

Jan 15, 2025 Buzz

Jaguar Land Rover Classic appoints new director, Dominic Elms

Jaguar Land Rover Classic announces changes to its leadership team with the appointment of Dominic Elms, who takes responsibility for operations of the Coventry based business. Charged with leading the Classic team’s development of the Classic business for JLR, Elms looks to deliver even greater opportunity for clients to experience the unrivalled history of some of the world’s most iconic…

Jan 15, 2025 Buzz

Reminder: NEASA 2025 National Roadshow: Revolutionary Business Solution: "State-proof" your business

NEASA invites you to our national roadshow in March 2025, featuring a series of workshops designed for business owners, their auditors, wealth and financial advisors, and their B-BBEE consultants to explore strategic business solutions. Each roadshow will cover three workshop themes for the respective business role-players and will include an exploratory, free of charge consultation with…

Jan 14, 2025 Buzz

Michelin Appoints Vitor Silva as President, Africa, India, and Middle East Region

Michelin, the world’s leading tyre technology leader, today announced the appointment of Vitor Silva as President of the Africa, India, and Middle East (AIM) Region. He will be based out of Pune, India. Across his 28-year plus tenure with the Michelin Group, Vitor has held several key leadership roles in sales, marketing and other commercial functions across North America, Europe and Asia. Most…

Jan 14, 2025 Buzz

Comprehensive pre-purchase vehicle inspections are essential for peace of mind

One of the most crucial steps in purchasing a pre-owned vehicle is ensuring that it is not only roadworthy but also mechanically sound. A pre-purchase inspection from an accredited, independent provider that can assess the vehicle for its mechanical fitness provides a layer of credibility for the seller and assurance for the buyer, minimising potential issues after the purchase. A thorough…

Jan 14, 2025 Buzz

National Minimum Wage: Recommended increase NEASA's commentary

Today, the National Employers’ Association of South Africa (NEASA) submitted written representations in accordance with the National Minimum Wage Commission’s (‘the Commission’) invitation for comment on their annual report. The Commission’s recommendation to the Minister of Employment and Labour is a CPI plus 1.5% increase to the National Minimum Wage (NMW). It is NEASA’s stated position that…

Jan 14, 2025 Buzz

Chery achieves record-breaking global sales in 2024, celebrates milestones and prestigious awards

2024 marked a milestone year for Chery, with the Chinese automaker achieving record-breaking global sales over the past twelve months. Chery reported sales of 2,603,916 vehicles globally, reflecting a 38.4% increase that surpassed its annual target and outpaced the industry’s growth rate by 10-20 percentage points. Locally, Chery experienced an outstanding year. In December, the automaker sold…

Jan 13, 2025 Buzz

Race Quotas: Sectoral Targets Consultations

In light of the Employment Equity Amendment Act implemented on 1 January 2025, the Department of Employment and Labour has recently sent out letters to designated employers requesting them to join in the consultation process for the forthcoming sectoral targets and regulations, in each specific sector. It is of the utmost importance that you, as an employer, participate in this process, as these…

Jan 13, 2025 Buzz

Race Quotas: "Proposed" employment equity targets surprise employers

Since the publication of the draft Employment Equity Regulations and numerical sectoral targets in 2023, in terms of the Employment Equity Amendment Act (EEAA), the National Employers’ Association of South Africa (NEASA) cautioned the Department that litigation remains imminent, if the Department continues its failure of adhering to the prescribed legislative process. Section 15A of the EEAA,…

Jan 10, 2025 Buzz

Driving innovation in robotics and automation: Yaskawa Southern Africa’s vision for the future

Maintaining a competitive edge in a rapidly changing industrial landscape means embracing new technologies and adapting to evolving market demands. Yaskawa Southern Africa has positioned itself as a leader in robotics and automation, particularly in areas such as palletising, materials handling and advanced manufacturing. Through a commitment to innovation, sustainability and skills development,…

Jan 10, 2025 Buzz

Global superstar Alan Walker announced as Jetour Brand Ambassador

Jetour, the global SUV brand that focuses on affordable, stylish, and feature-rich vehicles, has this week announced its partnership with British Norwegian DJ, music producer, and electronic music artist, Alan Walker, a collaboration which stems from their shared passion for travel, music and lifestyle. Since first launching globally in 2018, Jetour has been guided by its aim of being the auto…

Jan 10, 2025 Buzz

45 years and still leading the way

NAAMSA revealed that despite a last-quarter boost, new vehicle sales in 2024 fell overall by 3,0% to 515,712 units compared to the 531,775 units sold in 2023. All indicators point to an equally challenging 2025, although a potential rebound to pre-pandemic sales levels is still possible if key economic indicators on the local front continue to improve. Leon Theron, Senior Vice President of Sales…

Jan 09, 2025 Buzz

MSA Closure: NEASA calls on ITAC to scrap duties

The National Employers’ Association of South Africa (NEASA) has called on the International Trade and Administration Commission of South Africa (ITAC) to scrap all protectionist duties on long steel products, with immediate effect. ITAC implemented a 9% safeguard duty on long steel products in June 2024 and an additional 52% anti-dumping duty on structural steel, a subdivision of long steel, in…

Jan 09, 2025 Buzz

Car repair training programme aims to address shortage of critical skills

39 artisans from Limpopo and Northen Cape are undergoing an automotive repair training programme which will assist them in gaining panel beating and automotive spray-painting skills and starting new businesses. The programme is a joint initiative between Anglo American’s enterprise development arm, Zimele, and partners 3M and Super Auto Paints. It aims to equip individuals with the skills to…

Jan 09, 2025 Buzz

GAC Motor South Africa Announces unprecedented Price drop for Emzoom and Emkoo Models

Transparency, Investment, and Innovation Drive New Pricing Structure GAC Motor South Africa, a driver of South African automotive innovation, proudly announces a strategic price reduction for its Emzoom and Emkoo models. This price drop is a combination of the better forex rate through the end of 2024 and a clear indication of GAC Motor’s commitment to the South African market through scaled…

Jan 09, 2025 Buzz

Steel industry: AMSA on life support

If there is one thing that AMSA’s announcement of its imminent shutdown of its long steel business illustrates, it is the fact that protectionist duties cannot save any company from eventual demise. If a business is not competitive, the market will eventually spit it out. Government may interfere and, on the basis of its own objectives, or even hidden agenda, try to protect that business, but it…

Jan 09, 2025 Buzz

South Africa’s vehicle sales decline in 2024 despite late-year recovery

December vehicle sales in South Africa rose for the third consecutive month, increasing by 2.5% compared to December 2023. + This growth was primarily driven by an 8.2% rise in passenger car sales, with the rental industry continuing to play a significant role in the segment, accounting for 10.9% of the total. However, light commercial vehicle (LCV) sales declined by 10.3%, while medium and heavy…

Jan 08, 2025 Buzz

Five-year plan to address skills shortages in the tyre sector

The Tyre Equipment Parts Association (TEPA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), is making significant strides in the South African tyre sector to tackle the critical skills shortage in the sector. A comprehensive five-year plan has been outlined to modernise and align training programmes with the evolving demands of the sector, ensuring relevance and…

Jan 08, 2025 Buzz

Bosch Car Service Launches Sixth Service Centre

Auto Expedi8, a group of five Bosch Car Service workshops in the south of Johannesburg, has launched its sixth service centre in Springs at the Springs Mall. Jenene Cronning, a co-owner of Auto Expedi8, said the Springs Mall Service Centre branch is a newly revamped service centre equipped with the latest technology and run by an experienced team who will also adhere to Bosch’s international…

Jan 08, 2025 Buzz

Stellantis Partners with dSPACE to Accelerate Cloud-based Development of Vehicles

Stellantis, one of the world’s leading automakers, and dSPACE, a leader in simulation and validation solutions, today announced they have signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at accelerating the cloud-based development of Stellantis vehicles. The collaboration will integrate dSPACE’s VEOS platform for Software-in-the-Loop (SIL) testing into the Stellantis Virtual…

Jan 08, 2025 Buzz

naamsa releases December 2024 and full year 2024 new vehicle sales statistics

naamsa | The Automotive Business Council reports that the new vehicle market remains closely tied to broader economic conditions in the country. Since the first half of 2024 was particularly challenging, new vehicle sales in 2024 fell compared to 2023, even though the last quarter of 2024 was promising. Consequently, the new vehicle market hasn’t been able to recover to the 2019 pre-pandemic…

Jan 07, 2025 Buzz

Change at the top of Clark Europe as Stefan Budweit takes over Clark management

Clark Europe announces a change in management as of 1 January 2025 ten years of service, Rolf Eiten, President & CEO, is handing over the baton to Stefan Budweit, COO & Director Sales & Marketing, in order to devote himself to other tasks within the company. Stefan Budweit has already held various management positions within the company for thirteen years and took over as COO (Chief Operating…

Jan 06, 2025 Buzz

Axalta Named as a Global Partner to BMW Group in Over 50 Countries

Axalta (NYSE: AXTA), a leading global coatings company has been named as a recommended refinish supplier for BMW Group where BMW private paint label, ColorSystem, is not present. The new agreement, effective from January 2025, is valid for several years and includes BMW Group’s network of dealerships and collision repair shops in over 50 countries worldwide. BMW Group has also extended Axalta’s…

Jan 06, 2025 Buzz

Opinion Piece: Adapting to the gig economy – how TES providers can pioneer the future workforce

The global workforce is undergoing a profound transformation, with the gig economy dramatically altering the way people work and how businesses manage their talent needs. The rise of project-based employment, even at senior levels, is challenging traditional notions of work - particularly across growing sectors like renewable energy, mining, manufacturing, and green hydrogen. Temporary Employment…

Dec 23, 2024 Buzz

Nissan Africa opens state-of-the-art SSS facility in Senegal

Nissan Independent Markets Africa Managing Director Maciej Klenkiewicz and Japan Motors Trading Company Managing Director Salem Kalmoni officially opened a brand-new Nissan sales, service and spares centre in the Senegalese capital. The US$9,5-million investment is the culmination of an almost three-year journey and fitting testimony to Nissan’s ongoing commitment to Africa and to West Africa in…

Dec 20, 2024 Buzz

FedEx Powers Super Kings Journey as Principal Sponsor in a Multi-Year Agreement

Federal Express Corporation (“FedEx”), the world’s largest express transportation company, announced today its global sponsorship in cricket as the ‘Principal Sponsor’ and the ‘Official Logistics Partner’ for Joburg Super Kings (JSK) in South Africa and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in India. The announcement, made at an event attended by Richard Smith, chief operating officer, international, and…

Dec 20, 2024 Buzz

A promise kept: first Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale ready for delivery to customer #1

A bold promise Alfa Romeo made to its Alfisti fans around the world has been kept. The first of the 33 units of the new Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale has rolled off the production lines and is ready to go to the first excited customer. This extraordinary project not only celebrates Alfa Romeo’s return to the prestigious world of custom-built cars, but also marks a triumph of Italian know-how and style…

Dec 20, 2024 Buzz

Protect, accelerate, transform: Renault Group signs a three-year trade union agreement

Following the three-year 'Re-Nouveau France' agreement (2022-2024), which focused on anchoring value-creating activities in France, Renault Group in France and the two representative trade unions, CFE-CGC and CFDT, have today concluded a new multi-year social agreement for the period 2025-2027. Built around four main themes, this new social framework introduces measures that promote a more agile…

Dec 20, 2024 Buzz

EPCR welcomes OMODA | JAECOO as the first-ever Official Automotive Partner

EPCR, the tournament organiser of the Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup, has announced OMODA | JAECOO as its Official Automotive Partner for the 2024/25 season, marking a new chapter for international club rugby’s premier competitions. A ground-breaking partnership, it is the first time EPCR has teamed up with an automotive brand as the organisation looks to unlock new commercial…

Dec 20, 2024 Buzz

AutoTrader data shows SA consumers are looking for practical, affordable used vehicles

Budget hatchbacks and bakkies ruled November’s used car market, with the Ford Ranger topping sales and the Polo Vivo 1.4 proving its unbeatable appeal. November 2024 continued to show resilience in the used car market, with the latest AutoTrader used car sales data highlighting a strong performance despite a slight dip in sales. Last month, 32,158 used cars were sold, marking an -8%…

Dec 19, 2024 Buzz

Jetour’s Unique “Travel+” Strategy for The Festive Season and Beyond

As many South Africans head off for their annual festive season holidays to the bush, berg, beach and beyond, over a thousand of them are hitting the road in their Jetour, the new SUV brand that launched in South Africa in September of this year. Part of the appeal of this new SUV is its positioning as more than a vehicle that offers cutting-edge technology, advanced safety features, and…

Dec 19, 2024 Buzz

First Dream Drive Winner Drives Off in a Golf 8 GTI

Following the groundbreaking success of Mission Gusheshe, where Dream Drive sent a model of the iconic BMW E30 325i into the stratosphere, the platform has achieved another milestone – delivering its first dream car to a lucky South African winner. Dream Drive, South Africa’s first skill-based dream car competition platform, announced its inaugural winner after the competition closed on 10…

Dec 19, 2024 Buzz

Rudy the Robot to put in a Christmas shift in minus 40°C, delivering quality and luxury for JLR clients

Spare a thought for Rudy the Robot, JLR’s trusted automated colleague who is working hard this Christmas in minus 40-degree conditions to test the durability and quality of JLR vehicle doors. Based at JLR’s Gaydon Engineering Centre, the £2.1 million chamber housing Rudy is just one of the virtual and physical testing environments dedicated to delivering the next generation of safe, reliable,…

Dec 19, 2024 Buzz

GWM SA reflects on a milestone year and readies for an exciting 2025

With the year drawing to a close, GWM South Africa celebrates a dynamic 2024 filled with impressive vehicle launches, significant developments on the brand front and successful community upliftment projects. Stronger Together This year, GWM celebrates the incredible collaboration happening across its south African operations that have culminated in yet another successful year for the brand in the…

Dec 18, 2024 Buzz

Mixed outlook for fuel prices in January

Current unaudited data from the Central Energy Fund (CEF) shows a mix of increases and decreases in fuel prices for January. Commenting on the data, the Automobile Association (AA) says the data indicates that while there is a slight increase for ULP93, diesel, and illuminating paraffin prices are expected to decrease. Based on the data, ULP95 is anticipated to increase by around three cent per…

Dec 18, 2024 Buzz

Three Suzuki owners whose cars helped steer them through the year

2024 was yet another challenging year for South African consumers. From navigating the uncertainty of a general election to having to deal with increased living costs, the last twelve months have been a taxing time for most citizens. Fortunately when it comes to getting from point A to point B, those with a Suzuki in their possession have been able to weather the storm a little better. Whether…

Dec 17, 2024 Buzz

Mobalyz enters final restructuring phase amid positive sentiment

As Mobalyz marks an important milestone by entering the final phase of its restructuring process, the business says it is buoyed by the support it has received from the industry, its partners and staff. The final phase of the transition, which involves restructuring the business’s balance sheet, is crucial to solidifying Mobalyz’s long-term liquidity and stability, says Mobalyz CEO Sean Doherty…

Dec 16, 2024 Buzz

Toyota steals Ford’s thunder with a raft of special LandCruiser Prados

This year's SEMA show demonstrated the new Toyota LandCruiser Prado's potential for modification, with an array of diverse concepts. At last month’s 2024 SEMA show in Las Vegas, Nevada, all eyes were on Toyota. With Ford stepping down from its prime position within the central hall a couple of years ago, Toyota seized the opportunity and jumped in to make a statement. Now firmly holding this…

Dec 16, 2024 Buzz

Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale, “Supercar of the Year” at Automobile Awards 2024

It took only two years to turn a dream into reality, and as emphasized by its creation, it took first and foremost a decent dose of courage and a pinch of healthy madness to make this extraordinary project come true. In 1967, the same ingredients made up the car considered by many to be one of the most beautiful of all time, the 33 Stradale. Today, only a few days ahead of the first car delivery…

Dec 16, 2024 Buzz

Volkswagen’s Plant Kariega ends 2024 with a production record

Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA) has concluded 2024 on a high note, by celebrating its all-time production record of 167 084 vehicles. This is the highest number of vehicles produced at the Kariega plant since the first Beetle rolled off the production line 73 years ago. The new production record surpasses the previous production record of 161 954 vehicles, which was achieved in 2019. Of the 167…

Dec 16, 2024 Buzz

Steel Industry Scrap Metal Report

Introduction to trickle-up economics XA Global Trade Advisors has compiled a comprehensive and insightful report regarding the scrap metal industry of South Africa and the effects of protectionism thereon, as well as their proposed master plan for the optimisation of this sector. Read the full report here.

Dec 16, 2024 Buzz

NADA Chairperson Comments on CPI and Festive Season Spending

With the festive season in full swing, the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) figures offer a mixed picture for South African consumers. While a marginal increase in CPI to 2.9%, driven by higher fuel prices, may strain budgets, the significant decline in food inflation to its lowest point in 14 years provides some positive relief. Against this backdrop, Brandon Cohen, Chairperson of the National…

Dec 16, 2024 Buzz

Steel Industry: ITAC's unparalelled arrogance and ignorance

On 20 September 2024, ITAC published the proposed anti-dumping duties on several structural and hot-rolled steel products imported from China, Taiwan, Japan and Thailand. Despite the window for public comments on the proposed duties only closing on 11 November 2024, incredulously, irrationally and unfairly, ITAC provisionally implemented some of these proposed duties from 29 November 2024 until…

Dec 13, 2024 Buzz

Pedestrians are jumping in front of vehicles

The Road Accident Fund (RAF) issued a warning to road users that motorists should pay serious heed this Festive Season. The Fund says a trend is emerging in South Africa where pedestrians are throwing themselves in front of vehicles in a bid to lodge fraudulent claims with the RAF. Pedestrians wait beside the road for a vehicle to pass slow enough that the impact is not fatal. The CEO of…

Dec 13, 2024 Buzz

TecAlliance Welcomes Marina Ribke as Chief Data and Technology Officer (CDTO)

TecAlliance, the leading expert for data management and processes in the automotive aftermarket, completes its leadership team with the appointment of Marina Ribke as Chief Data and Technology Officer (CDTO), effective 1 January 2025. Her extensive expertise in digital transformation and automotive data ecosystems positions her as the ideal leader to drive TecAlliance’s next phase of innovation.…

Dec 13, 2024 Buzz

Ekurhuleni springs into action with Jetour fever!

Jetour Springs, which opened its doors in September, blends the charm of small-town comfort with the elegance of modern sophistication. Backed by 20 years in the automotive sector, this Springs dealership has firmly established itself as a trusted trailblazer in the industry, and with the launch of the new Jetour dealership, customers can now get value for money, affordable luxury and superior…

Dec 12, 2024 Buzz

Engen Helps Power a Sustainable Future with Solar Energy at Engen Maths & Science Schools

Engen is proud to announce the successful launch of a cutting-edge solar power system at its Engen Maths and Science School (EMSS) at Ganges Secondary School in South Durban. This initiative represents a significant milestone in Engen’s commitment to sustainability and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, combining environmental stewardship with empowering South…

Dec 12, 2024 Buzz

Armoured Mobility Declares War on Hijackers with Bold New Billboard: "Say 'Tsek to Hijack" UNAPOLOGETIC. UNSTOPPABLE. UNCOMPROMISING.

Armoured Mobility, South Africa’s leading innovator in bulletproof vehicle solutions, has once again raised the bar with its fearless new billboard campaign. Located in Johannesburg on the N3 highway northbound, near the Van Buuren Road exit, the latest message boldly states: "Say 'Tsek to Hijack. Bulletproof Your Car." This audacious slogan is more than a tagline—it’s a rallying cry for every…

Dec 12, 2024 Buzz

STANDARD BANK continues to DRIVe POSITIVE IMPACT in the automotive sector as sustainability performance targets are finalised for Motus

Standard Bank, the biggest bank in Africa by assets, recently announced that sustainability performance targets set as part of a facility arranged for Motus in June 2024 have been finalised. Motus is a multi-national provider of automotive mobility solutions and vehicle products and services, with a leading market presence in South Africa as well as a select international offering in the United…

Dec 12, 2024 Buzz

Unsafe – Hollard is working to make our roads safer

As the year winds down and the festive season lights up, our roads come alive with bustling activity. For businesses with commercial fleets, this busy time offers the perfect opportunity to focus on proactive measures that keep drivers and vehicles safe during the December and January period. At Hollard, we're passionate about championing safer roads for everyone. As an insurer, who is in the…

Dec 12, 2024 Buzz

Brasil Auto Parts achieves significant results in 2023-2024

With more than 9,900 business contacts and USD 25.4 million in business in 2023 and 2024, BAP is now planning to work towards a new agreement. Brasil Auto Parts (BAP), a project carried out in partnership between the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (ApexBrasil) and the National Association of Brazilian Auto Parts Manufacturers (Sindipeças), achieved great results in the 2023-2024…

Dec 12, 2024 Buzz

The 20th anniversary of Automechanika Shanghai closes with record-breaking exhibitor and visitor participation

Automechanika Shanghai concludes its 20th anniversary with a successful and celebratory show, marked by impressive new records from both exhibitors and visitors. As always, the fair served as a hub for buyers and suppliers to learn, network and showcase the innovations that are shaping the future automotive industry. Attendees, including exhibitors, visitors, speakers, media, as well as other…

Dec 11, 2024 Buzz

SAB Appeals to South Africans: Make Responsible Road Safety Choices This Festive Season

South African Breweries (SAB) is doubling its commitment to promoting responsible road behaviour. At the heart of this commitment is the establishment of Alcohol Evidence Centres (AECs), which provide law enforcement with the infrastructure and tools to process drunk-driving offences efficiently. These centres enhance accountability by supporting accurate and timely testing of impaired drivers,…

Dec 11, 2024 Buzz

Cape Town family becomes second recipients of fully furnished home from the Collen Mashawana Foundation and WesBank

This week, the Collen Mashawana Foundation, in partnership with WesBank, handed over a fully furnished, newly rebuilt home to a family in Nyanga, Cape Town, bringing them the perfect gift to celebrate a warm and wonderful festive season. Nomasongololo Ntunja (78) lost her home earlier this year when it was gutted by a fire that left her destitute, along with her son who suffers from tuberculosis…

Dec 11, 2024 Buzz

South Africa’s Credit Market Shows Signs of Improvement as Vehicle Finance Volumes Increased for the First Time in Two Years

According to TransUnion’s (NYSE:TRU) Q3 2024 South Africa Industry Insights Report, consumption credit products (credit cards, personal loans, retail revolving lines) continued to experience growth, with originations growing by 14.4% year-over-year (YoY) in Q3 2024 as consumers find ways to adapt to the persistent high cost of living in South Africa. Retail revolving credit experienced the…

Dec 11, 2024 Buzz

Festive season annual shutdown

As we approach the end of another eventful year, we want to take a moment to express our gratitude for your continued support. Your trust in NEASA inspires us to deliver the best possible service, and we are committed to walking this journey with you in the year ahead. Please note that the NEASA offices will be closed from 13 December 2024 to 6 January 2025. However, support staff will be…

Dec 11, 2024 Buzz

Minister of Labour admits: Employment Equity Stifles Business Growth

By Gerhard Papenfus, Chief Executive of the National Employers' Association of South Africa (NEASA). The Minister of Employment and Labour, in a recent media statement, praised the exemption of small employers (49 or less employees) from expensive and time-consuming employment equity compliance. In this same statement, the Minister blatantly admitted that employment equity is detrimental to…

Dec 11, 2024 Buzz

Recycled Plastic Bottles Increase the Share of Sustainable Materials in Continental Tyres

Continental is increasing the proportion of recycled materials in its tyres. More plants have recently been converted to use polyester fabric made from recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles. This increases the recycled content of many tyre lines by an average of three percent. Depending on the tyre size, up to 15 PET bottles are used per tyre. By replacing the material with recycled…

Dec 11, 2024 Buzz

TopGear South Africa Awards 2024 – powered by WesBank: A Night of Celebration, Innovation, and Excellence in the Automotive Industry

The highly anticipated TopGear South Africa Magazine Awards 2024, in partnership with WesBank, took place last night at The Galleria in Sandton, marking an unforgettable evening in the South African automotive industry. The event, filled with anticipation and excitement, was a true celebration of excellence, recognising the finest cars, brands, and individuals that have shaped the local…

Dec 11, 2024 Buzz

Stellantis and CATL to Invest Up to €4.1 Billion in Joint Venture for Large-Scale LFP Battery Plant in Spain

Stellantis and CATL today announced they have reached an agreement to invest up to €4.1 billion to form a joint venture that will build a large-scale European lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery plant in Zaragoza, Spain. Designed to be completely carbon neutral, the battery plant will be implemented in several phases and investment plans. Targeted to start production by end of 2026 at…

Dec 11, 2024 Buzz

ISUZU MOTORS South Africa Spreads Holiday Cheer Through “Buckets of Blessings” Initiative

As the festive season brings people together, ISUZU MOTORS South Africa, in partnership with Rise Against Hunger NPO and Love Story NPC, continued its tradition of making a meaningful difference in the communities it serves. Through the ISUZU CARES: I CARE TOO employee volunteerism drive, ISUZU employees came together to pack and deliver 400 “Buckets of Blessings,” filled with essential grocery…

Dec 11, 2024 Buzz

Next-Gen Triton Wins Japan Car of the Year Design Award

Mitsubishi Motors announced that the Next-Gen Triton one-ton pickup truck has won the Design Car of the Year, awarded to car with excellent exterior and interior design, at the 2024-2025 Japan Car of the Year awards. In awarding the Design Car of the Year, the organising committee commended Mitsubishi Motors for giving its signature 4WD a rugged yet inspiring design that encourages customers to…

Dec 11, 2024 Buzz

South Africa shines in Stellantis Student Awards

Adrielle Naidoo, daughter of Stellantis South Africa Collin Naidoo has won the coveted Sergio Marchione Award and notches up the family’s second consecutive year of recgnition in the Stellantis Student Awards. “It is initiatives such as this that provides incredible depth to Stellantis’ approach to sustainability,” said Managing Director of Stellantis South Africa, Mike Whitfield.…

Dec 10, 2024 Buzz

Enhance Your Holiday Experiences with BAIC: Your Perfect Travel Companion

The holiday season is here; there's a unique sense of excitement in the air—time to reunite with family, take road trips, and embark on new adventures. At BAIC, we understand the importance of every journey, especially during these festive moments. Whether it's the urban sophistication of the BEIJING X55, the city-life adaptability of the BEIJING X55 PLUS, or the off-road capability of the B40…

Dec 10, 2024 Buzz

Culture, Arts, Tourism Hospitality and Sport Industries: Train and upskill your employees with government funding

Employers in the culture, arts, tourism hospitality and sport industries may apply for government funding for a variety of training programs for their employees. This funding for employers is available for a range of training initiatives, including but not limited to: learnerships such as generic management (NQF levels 2-4), project management, hygiene and cleaning; bursaries for employees…

Dec 10, 2024 Buzz

Constructor University & BMW identify the next generation of data scientists as Hackathon comes to a close

The inaugural BMW Causal Machine Learning Hackathon at Constructor University concluded this week and was nothing short of a massive success. Image: Smiles across the board: Participants and organizers at the awards ceremony of first-ever CU x BMW Hackathon (source: Constructor University) Over three days, 34 teams from the university showcased their talents, culminating in 21 innovative…

Dec 10, 2024 Buzz

Chery marks three years in South Africa with dealer growth and celebration

Chery South Africa celebrated three successful years since its return to the local market with Chery Day, a vibrant, family-friendly event on 7 December that brought customers together for fun and festivity. Guests enjoyed live music and a relaxed, picnic-style atmosphere, creating a setting for families to unwind while participating in the celebrations. The event also showcased Chery’s full SUV…

Dec 09, 2024 Buzz

Next Generation Drives the Future of Mobility at Stellantis’ Third Annual Student Awards

Stellantis proudly concluded its third global Student Awards Program, recognizing more than 660 recent high school and university graduates of Stellantis employees from 22 countries with prestigious monetary awards during an online ceremony. The year-long education program encourages the innovative spirit of talented minds. This year’s applicants shared their vision of future mobility in a…

Dec 09, 2024 Buzz

Manufacturing, Engineering, Steel and -related industries: Train and upskill your employees with government funding

Employers in the manufacturing, engineering, steel and -related industries may apply for government funding for a variety of training programs for their employees and apprentices. This funding for employers is available for a range of training initiatives, including but not limited to: training of apprentices such as boilermakers, millwrights, electricians, welders and other trades; learnerships…

Dec 09, 2024 Buzz

Jetour hits 1 000 retail sales milestone since September launch

etour, the bold and innovative SUV brand that launched in South Africa at the end of September, has reached yet another milestone, this time hitting over 1 000 retail sales across their only two models: the Dashing and X70 Plus. This achievement underscores the brand’s growing popularity, and the trust South African motorists are placing in Jetour, which already has 40 plus dealerships nationwide…

Dec 09, 2024 Buzz

Aspire's Inaugural Collectable Car Auction Revs Up Success

Earlier this month, history was made when a leading, first-tier, South African art auction house debuted its inaugural rare collectable car auction to a packed audience of floor bidders, auction spectators and both local and international online bidders. While the local collectable car market has expanded and evolved in recent years, with a growing appreciation for rarity, craftsmanship and…

Dec 06, 2024 Buzz

Chery South Africa achieves best-ever sales performance in November 2024

Chery South Africa is celebrating its best-ever month of sales, with total units for November 2024 exceeding the 2,000-unit mark. Last month, 2,006 Chery vehicles were sold in South Africa, with the brand occupying a spot in the top 10 for new vehicle sales, finishing in seventh position overall. Chery continues to deliver outstanding monthly sales in the new passenger vehicle market, with the…

Dec 06, 2024 Buzz

Stellantis and Zeta Energy Announce Agreement to Develop Lithium-Sulfur EV Batteries

Stellantis N.V. and Zeta Energy Corp. today announced a joint development agreement aimed at advancing battery cell technology for electric vehicle applications. The partnership aims to develop lithium-sulfur EV batteries with game-changing gravimetric energy density while achieving a volumetric energy density comparable to today’s lithium-ion technology. For customers, this means potentially a…

Dec 06, 2024 Buzz

New influencers for a new SUV: Jetour and Good Things Guy names brand’s new shape shifters

Since launching in South Africa two months ago, new SUV brand Jetour has partnered with South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy, Brent Lindeque, to find five inspiring South African influencers to embody and represent their brand. The brand was looking for local lifestyle, travel and tech trendsetters, faces to best represent Jetour’s authenticity, passion, and creativity. Jetour blends its…

Dec 06, 2024 Buzz

Check Out Your Tyres Before Caravan Season Begins

The caravan and camping season is just around the corner, and tyre manufacturer Continental has some tips on things to look out for before that first trip. Inflating the tyres to the correct pressure and inspecting them for signs of damage is without doubt the first priority for owners of caravans, campers and trailers. Tyre age is also an important consideration. Regardless of the application,…

Dec 06, 2024 Buzz

Hyundai Automotive SA bids farewell to Deon Sonnekus

Hyundai Automotive South Africa bid a thankful farewell to Deon Sonnekus, General Manager: Corporate Communications, who entered retirement at the end of November 2024. Deon Sonnekus spent 13 years at Hyundai Automotive SA and during that time he enjoyed a favourable relationship with his colleagues, the media and all stakeholders. By overseeing the internal and external communication strategy of…

Dec 06, 2024 Buzz

ITAC, YOU KNOW NOTHING! - sincerely, the Steel Downstream

By Gerhard Papenfus, Chief Executive of the National Employers' Association of South Africa (NEASA). According to its website, the aim of the International Trade Administration Commission (ITAC), the government entity responsible for the regulation of goods across South Africa’s borders, is to “foster economic growth and development in order to raise incomes and promote investment and employment…

Dec 06, 2024 Buzz

Ford Achieves Record Exports in November 2024, Best Domestic Sales Since 2021

Ford South Africa notched up two significant achievements in November 2024 by leading the vehicle exports for the month, and recording its highest monthly sales volume in more than three years which placed it fourth overall on the domestic sales charts. A total of 10 574 Rangers were exported from Ford’s Silverton Manufacturing Plant in November – the highest figure achieved to date for the…

Dec 05, 2024 Buzz

FAW Trucks Southern Africa Celebrates Excellence at the 2024 Master Tech Training Competition

FAW Trucks Southern Africa proudly announced the winners of the 2024 Master Tech Training Competition, showcasing technical excellence within its network. This prestigious event highlights the skills and dedication of technicians across the region. Winners of the 2024 Master Tech Training Competition: 1st Place: Franklin Abboy from FAW Eastern Cape 2nd Place: Akshay Ramgoolam from FAW Newcastle…

Dec 05, 2024 Buzz

Engen Keeps on Giving in Support of Gift of the Givers and FoodForward SA

Engen has reaffirmed its commitment to uplifting vulnerable communities across South Africa through impactful partnerships with two key organisations: Gift of the Givers and FoodForward SA. In separate cheque handovers held today, Engen donated an additional R3 million in fuel support to Gift of the Givers and R2 million to FoodForward SA, underscoring its ongoing dedication to supporting…

Dec 05, 2024 Buzz

NEASA 2025 National Roadshow: Revolutionary Business Solution: "State-proof" your business

NEASA invites you to our national roadshow in March 2025, featuring a series of workshops designed for business owners, their auditors, wealth and financial advisors, and their B-BBEE consultants to explore strategic business solutions. Each roadshow will cover three workshop themes for the respective business role-players and will include an exploratory, free of charge consultation with…

Dec 05, 2024 Buzz

Why exhibit at SAPICS 2025?

The SAPICS Annual Conference is Africa’s leading event for supply chain professionals, offering unparalleled opportunities to showcase your brand, connect with industry leaders, and drive business growth. Here’s why your organisation should be part of this must-attend event: Build and Promote Brand Awareness Position your organisation as a leader in supply chain management by putting your brand…

Dec 04, 2024 Buzz

Toyota’s global Dream Car Art Contest for children is back!

Entries for the 18th Toyota Dream Car Art Contest are now open. From 2 December 2024 to 16 February 2025, Toyota South Africa Motors will hold the “Toyota Dream Car Art Contest,” which invites children under the age of 15 from all corners of the globe to share ideas about the future of mobility by drawing their dream cars. Toyota holds this contest with the hope that children, who lead the…

Dec 04, 2024 Buzz

A Must Read: The winding up of estates in SA is in shambles

by Amanda Visser ... Problems at master’s offices the tip of the iceberg. The entire system dealing with deceased and insolvency estates is broken. Most of the finger-pointing is at the Master of the High Court, though that is but the tip of the iceberg. Billions of rands are tied up in deceased and insolvent estates because of the brokenness of government entities such as the Government Printing…

Dec 03, 2024 Buzz

Toyota sells more than 12,000 units in November

Mirroring the positive momentum in vehicle sales, Toyota records its best sales month in November, shifting 12,106 units for a total market share of 24,9% or 215 units more than the preceding month. Leon Theron (Senior Vice President: Sales & Marketing), is buoyed by the upward trend in the market: “Breaching the 12,000 sales mark for the first time this year is indeed a milestone and a clear…

Dec 03, 2024 Buzz

Johannesburg Expo Centre and The Rand Show celebrate milestone anniversaries

This year marks an extraordinary double milestone as the Johannesburg Expo Centre (JEC), NASREC, celebrates 40 years of bringing world-class service to South Africa’s events and exhibitions industry, while The Rand Show organisation, the entity behind South Africa’s longest-standing consumer exhibition, turns 130. “The Johannesburg Expo Centre has always been more than a venue. It has become a…

Dec 03, 2024 Buzz

NEASA Skills Training: Training January 2025

NEASA is offering skills training by accredited training providers in the following disciplines: Occupational Health and Safety - R1 050.00 excl. VAT Firefighting - R860.00 excl. VAT First Aid - R1 100.00 excl. VAT The training will be conducted in Kempton Park, Pietermaritzburg, Durban (Pinetown), Cape Town, and Klerksdorp. The exact venues will be communicated at a later stage. Contact Samantha…

Dec 03, 2024 Buzz

Volkswagen Group Africa hosts third Family Day event for 15 000 employees and loved-ones

Welcoming 15 410 guests into their plant in Kariega, Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA) hosted a vibrant and memorable Family Day on Saturday, 30 November. The event provided a unique opportunity for VWGA to show its heartfelt appreciation for the efforts and commitment of their workforce, which continues to drive the company’s success. Martina Biene, Chairperson and Managing Director of VWGA, who…

Dec 03, 2024 Buzz

Layton Beard resigns from the AA

The Automobile Association of South Africa (AA) announces the resignation of Layton Beard who has served as the Spokesperson and Head of Public affairs. During his tenure with the AA, Layton made significant contributions to the AA. His initiatives have fostered a culture of honest and transparent communication with the media and other stakeholders. Through his advocacy for a review of the fuel…

Dec 03, 2024 Buzz

Stellantis Organizational Announcement

The process to appoint the new permanent Chief Executive Officer is well under way, managed by a Special Committee of the Board, and will be concluded within the first half of 2025. While the appointment of the new CEO is concluded the following organization is implemented with immediate effect. The Interim Executive Committee (“IEC”) will be responsible for the direction and oversight of the…

Dec 03, 2024 Buzz

November best new vehicle sales month of 2024

Positive momentum continued to build for the new vehicle market during November, with sales for the month replacing October as the best sales month of the year. The strong performance was driven by fleet deals from the rental companies as consumer demand softened year-on-year. New vehicle sales reported its second consecutive month of substantial year-on-year growth, recording 48,585 sales, up…

Dec 03, 2024 Buzz

Supply chain industry body supports youth, tackles skills gap and unemployment

Supply chain industry body SAPICS has reinforced its commitment to developing South African youth by rolling out new initiatives and partnerships aimed at upskilling and empowering young graduates and professionals for career success, addressing the skills gap in the supply chain field and fighting the country’s high youth unemployment rate. According to Stats SA, youth aged 15 to 24 and 25 to 34…

Dec 03, 2024 Buzz

Zimbabwean exemption permits (ZEPs) Extended

On 29 November 2024, the Minster of Home Affairs gazetted a notice extending the validity period of Zimbabwean Exemption Permits (“ZEPs”) for a further 12 months until 28 November 2025. This is as a result of the Minister reactivating the Immigration Advisory Board who will see to engaging in consultations with ZEP affected parties as per the High Court order. All existing ZEPs shall therefore be…

Dec 02, 2024 Buzz

Automechanika Shanghai 2024’s 20th anniversary edition opens today to unmatched participation of exhibitors and speakers ready to spotlight a sustainable future

Automechanika Shanghai 2024 opened its doors today with a record breaking 6,763 exhibitors, an increase of 20 percent compared to last year’s event, including 17 overseas country and region pavilions for its 20th anniversary. This year’s fringe programme is the show’s largest to date, with over 81 events paving the way for plenty of opportunities for networking, information exchange, education,…

Dec 02, 2024 Buzz

Unforgettable Customer Connections

The Unlimited and inQuba Win Assegai Award for putting customers first Customers want to feel valued and The Unlimited has turned this simple truth into award-winning success by reimagining how financial service providers engage with their clients. In partnership with technology provider, inQuba, they recently celebrated a prestigious Assegai Award for their groundbreaking ‘people-first’…

Dec 02, 2024 Buzz

naamsa releases November 2024 new vehicle sales statistics

Reflecting on the new vehicle sales statistics naamsa said that a second consecutive increase in the monthly new vehicle sales could signal the start of the longawaited upward trend in the new vehicle market. Aggregate domestic new vehicle sales in November 2024, at 48,585 units, reflected an increase of 3,658 units, or a gain of 8,1%, from the 44,927 vehicles sold in November 2023. Export sales…

Dec 02, 2024 Buzz

Board Accepts Carlos Tavares’ Resignation as Chief Executive Officer

Stellantis N.V. (“Stellantis” or “the Company”) announces that the Company’s Board of Directors, under the Chairmanship of John Elkann, accepted Carlos Tavares’ resignation today from his role as Chief Executive Officer with immediate effect. The process to appoint the new permanent Chief Executive Officer is well under way, managed by a Special Committee of the Board, and will be concluded…

Dec 02, 2024 Buzz

Habot grease line Brugarolas has a 140-year rep

There was once a time, when most cars and machines had nipples. Little valves to which you’d fix a gun to grease the bearing, axle or whatever else beyond it, needed periodic oiling remote to a machine’s lubrication system. Grease and bearing technology have of course moved on over the years and there are less nipples these days. But grease remains a huge industry sector all on its own. Proudly…

Dec 02, 2024 Buzz

NEASA warns Labour Minister in anticipation of "Race-Quotas"

On 28 November 2024, the Department of Employment and Labour (DoEL) proclaimed the implementation date of the Employment Equity Amendment Act (EEAA) as 1 January 2025. Although the National Employers’ Association of South Africa (NEASA) plans to challenge the constitutionality of certain provisions of the EEAA itself, it is pleased that the DoEL ostensibly heeded NEASA’s stern warnings and…

Nov 29, 2024 Buzz

Ford Wildlife Foundation Celebrates 10th Anniversary, Marks more than Three Decades of Environmental Support

Ford’s stated objectives are to create a better world by providing customers with innovative products and services, enhancing peoples’ lives, and making a difference in the regions in which it operates. The latter two goals are especially true of its wide range of community empowerment and upliftment initiatives, as well as its far-reaching environmental conservation programmes. Ford South…

Nov 29, 2024 Buzz

Unstoppable partnership: Defender and Tusk take conservation into a new era

Defender has today announced an extension to its enduring partnership with leading conservation charity Tusk. The commitment, which builds on almost 20 years of collaboration, will see Defender significantly increase its support with enhanced vehicle provision and grant funding to new flagship projects. The renewed partnership will support six of Tusk’s project partners; the first three are with…

Nov 29, 2024 Buzz

Bolt Partners with Automobile Association(AA) to Host Road Safety Training for Drivers Ahead of Festive Season

Bolt, the leading ride-hailing platform, today hosted a road safety training session for its drivers at its Driver Engagement Centre in Randburg. The training, held ahead of the busy festive season, was part of Bolt’s global safety campaign and reinforced the company’s commitment to ensuring the safety of its community. Facilitated by experts from the Automobile Association of South Africa (AA)…

Nov 28, 2024 Buzz

Countdown to TyreXpo Asia 2025: Registration Now Open for Visitors

With just under four months to go, anticipation is building for TyreXpo Asia 2025, one of the most prominent events in the global tyre and automotive repair industries. Scheduled to take place from Wednesday, 12 March to Friday, 14 March 2025, the event will be hosted at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre in Singapore. Following the overwhelming success of previous editions, TyreXpo Asia 2025 is…

Nov 28, 2024 Buzz

Production Technologies Association of SA (PtSA) opens multi million rand training Centre of Excellence in KwaZulu-Natal

Manufacturing skills capacity in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa’s second largest provincial manufacturing industry, is set to get a major boost with the opening of the Production Technologies Association of South Africa’s (PtSA) new multi million rand Centre of Excellence in the province. The ultra modern1600 square meter Centre of Excellence, based in Marianhill, Pinetown was officially opened by…

Nov 28, 2024 Buzz

Seize the chance to position your organisation as a leader in Africa’s supply chain landscape: Be a Sponsor at the 47th Annual SAPICS Conference in 2025!

Elevate Your Organisation and your Brand in Africa's Thriving Supply Chain Community Are you ready to position your organisation as a leader in Africa’s dynamic supply chain sector? The 47th SAPICS Annual Conference is your gateway to unparalleled exposure and influence across the continent. Sponsoring at SAPICS 2025 is more than sponsorship - it’s a partnership and a strategic advantage. Here’s…

Nov 28, 2024 Buzz

10 Transformative Insights from Henkel SA’s Inaugural Sustainability Indaba

Following Henkel South Africa's recent inaugural Sustainability Indaba, it’s clear that the commitment to a sustainable future has never been stronger. This landmark event brought together industry leaders, Henkel team members, and sustainability experts to raise awareness on one of the most pressing issues of our time: building a business and a world that serves both present and future…

Nov 27, 2024 Buzz

JLR closes the loop with industry first breakthrough using recycled seat foam

JLR has made a significant technical breakthrough in the closed-loop recycling of polyurethane seat foam from its used vehicles by successfully reintegrating it back into the production of new seats. In collaboration with Dow’s MobilityScience™ material innovations and global leader in automotive seating Adient, this is the first time closed-loop seat foam content has been successfully used in…

Nov 27, 2024 Buzz

Road Freight Industry: CON/ARB Process introduced

The National Bargaining Council for the Road Freight and Logistics Industry (the Council) has introduced the Con/Arb process to its dispute resolution procedures. Although this type of process has been used extensively by the CCMA for many years, it was never utilised by the Council. The implication of this is that disputes will no longer be set down separately for conciliation and arbitration…

Nov 26, 2024 Buzz

Defender completes 60,000km Afrika Odyssey Expedition, helping distribute 15,880 mosquito nets

Defender has notched another mark in its storied legacy of durability, capability and humanitarian support, following the conclusion of the Kingsley Holgate Foundation’s Africa Odyssey Expedition. The 60,000km voyage through 24 African countries distributed insecticide-treated mosquito nets amongst vulnerable communities across the continent. With a special focus on children under the age of five…

Nov 26, 2024 Buzz

VWGA Employees and their loved-ones make a positive environmental impact

Taking another step on the Volkswagen Group Africa journey of environmental sustainability, 250 employees and loved-ones gathered on Saturday 23 November at the Van Stadens Wildflower Reserve. At this 600-hectare reserve just outside Gqeberha, these volunteers gave their time to promote biodiversity as part of VWGA’s Show of Hands initiative. The event, hosted by the Volkswagen Community Trust,…

Nov 26, 2024 Buzz

Toyota Genuine – Here. For life

The Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) Customer Service Marketing Team and Studio One at Publicis Groupe Africa have launched a new campaign promising their customers that Toyota Genuine is Here. For life. With its storied history in South Africa, Toyota has managed to build a strong reputation with its customers, becoming an intrinsic part of South African culture over the past 60 years. What…

Nov 25, 2024 Buzz

Dynamic tests on Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale at iconic Nardò circuit

The Alfa Romeo engineering team has just completed an intense test session on the “00 prototype” of the new 33 Stradale at the Nardò circuit, to test its driving dynamics and performance in extreme conditions at very high speed. Specifically, the test team monitored and validated dynamic parameters such as aerodynamics, top speed, maximum temperatures, propulsive cooling systems, and cabin…

Nov 25, 2024 Buzz

Sustaining and Growing the Automotive Sector in South Africa

The automotive industry has long been a cornerstone of South Africa's manufacturing economy. Yet, as we look to the future, it's clear that sustaining and growing this sector requires a collective effort from all stakeholders—industry, government, labour, and educational institutions. This was a key takeaway from a recent BDO-hosted roundtable discussion, where automotive sector experts came…

Nov 25, 2024 Buzz

Urgent action required to address skills shortages in South Africa’s Automotive industry

The South African automotive industry faces an escalating skills shortage that threatens its sustainability. The lack of sufficiently skilled workers is a critical challenge, particularly as the industry struggles to adapt to rapid technological advancements in vehicle systems and the changing demands of modern vehicles. Vishal Premlall, National Director of the Tyre Equipment, Parts Association…

Nov 25, 2024 Buzz

Shaping the future of the automotive industry at Automechanika Shanghai 2024 with the most fringe programme events and speakers yet

Final preparations are underway as Automechanika Shanghai 2024 returns on 2 to 5 December 2024 with its strongest fringe programme to date. This year, 81 fringe programme events and over 400 speakers will set the stage for information exchange, talent development, trade and industry education throughout its conferences and dedicated themed areas. With an expected 6,700 exhibitors attending, the…

Nov 25, 2024 Buzz

Casalinga, cars and customers – journey with Jetour comes to Gauteng

Last weekend saw the second Journey with Jetour event take place, this time at Casalinga, a long-standing Muldersdrift favourite in Johannesburg. Here, new Gauteng Jetour Dashing and X70 Plus owners gathered to meet, eat and share their experiences with these new SUVs. This comes after the inaugural Journey with Jetour event which was held at Boschendal in the Cape Winelands last month. Not only…

Nov 21, 2024 Buzz

GAC Motor Unveils New Flagship Dealership in Bryanston, South Africa

Salvador Caetano, the exclusive distributor of GAC Motor vehicles in South Africa, is proud to announce the grand opening of its flagship dealership in Bryanston, Johannesburg. This landmark event marks a significant milestone in the brand’s growth and commitment to providing South African consumers with access to GAC Motor’s premium range of vehicles and world-class customer service. The…

Nov 21, 2024 Buzz

FAW Southern Africa: Ensuring Durability with Expert Parts and Service Support

FAW Trucks Southern Africa is proud to announce its ongoing commitment to ensuring durability and longevity in its service offerings through comprehensive parts availability and expert service support. Under the leadership of Mr. Jian Yang, FAW SA CEO, the company continues to enhance its operational efficiency to meet the needs of its customers across Southern Africa. Optimising Parts…

Nov 21, 2024 Buzz

Look after your vehicle tracking device like it has looked after you

Motorists want complete peace of mind their car will still be where they parked it after shopping at the mall or visiting a friend. Businesses in the freight industry need peace of mind the hundreds of wheels traversing the length and breadth of the country every day are safe every kilometre of the journey. That’s why reliable tracking devices have become a must-have for South African motorists,…

Nov 21, 2024 Buzz

Fleet management, logistics and EV power take centre stage at the Automechanika Johannesburg and Futuroad Expo CEO breakfast on show opening day

The fourth and final of four outstanding CEO Breakfast events presented throughout 2024 took place at Expo Centre, Nasrec, on 19 November, the opening day of the 2024 editions of Automechanika Johannesburg and Futuroad Expo, the largest trade shows of their kind on the African Continent. Ably led by Programme Director Andile Africa, CEO of the Automotive Industry Development Centre, the…

Nov 21, 2024 Buzz

This is Jaguar. Bold. Dramatic. Fearless

Jaguar releases a tease image of its dramatic new creative philosophy – Exuberant Modernism, that will inspire future vehicles. The image of the rear detail, provides a glimpse into the brand’s design vision that will showcase bold forms and exuberant proportions. Jaguar will globally reveal its Design Vision Concept at one of the world’s premier art festivals, Miami Art Week on 2nd December…

Nov 21, 2024 Buzz

A Legacy of Hope: VW Community Trust celebrates 35 years

For 35 years, the Volkswagen Community Trust has been at the heart of change in the lives of thousands of individuals. What began in 1989 as a humble effort to support communities around Kariega has grown into a beacon of hope for many in need. For Volkswagen Group Africa, this has always been more than just a corporate responsibility; it’s about people, and about the belief that a future filled…

Nov 21, 2024 Buzz

Bolt Drives Literacy with Mobility Alphabet Campaign on World Children's Day

In recognition of World Children's Day and its 2024 theme, "For every child, every right," Bolt, a leading ride-hailing platform, announced the launch of its Mobility Alphabet Campaign at the Heart of Hope Children's Home. This initiative aims to transform daily commutes into learning opportunities while on Bolt trips, encouraging a love for reading among the nation's young people and upholding…

Nov 21, 2024 Buzz

Gauteng entrepreneurs win life-changing prize worth R1 million in Nedbank Pitch & Polish competition

After 16 thrilling weeks and 4 rounds of intense competition, the 2024 Nedbank Pitch & Polish competition reached a thrilling conclusion. With 16 determined contestants (plus a wildcard entry!) captivating audiences and amassing over 7 million views, the stakes were sky-high. At the centre of it all was a 1st prize worth a life-changing R1 million! Now in its 14th year, Pitch & Polish – powered…

Nov 21, 2024 Buzz

Transparent Tech: Invisible Biometrics Sensing Display Monitors Passengers’ Vital Parameters

Continental will present a display novelty at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas (January 7–10, 2025) that recently won a CES Innovation Award Honoree: the Invisible Biometrics Sensing Display tracks the vital parameters of persons inside the vehicle using a camera and a laser projector installed behind the dashboard display to support a wide range of safety and comfort functions.…

Nov 21, 2024 Buzz

Keeping cars roadworthy: The critical role of parts availability for Motor Body Repairers

As South Africa's automotive market continues to expand with diverse vehicle brands, advanced technologies, and new models, access to high-quality parts has become more essential than ever for the repair industry. The South African Motor Body Repairers’ Association (SAMBRA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), highlights the increasing need for reliable parts…

Nov 20, 2024 Buzz

Jetour Ballito brings beautiful SUV offering to Dolphin Coast

KwaZulu Natal’s Dolphin Coast, North of Durban, is known for its warm weather and stunning beaches, a firm favourite for locals and tourists alike. Among the resorts, hotels and laid-back coastal lifestyle lies the new Jetour dealership where the ultimate blend of lifestyle and adventure awaits in the new Jetour Dashing and X70 Plus. Located in Moffat Drive, Jetour Ballito’s team is passionate…

Nov 20, 2024 Buzz

Hino hands over mobile offices to Gauteng Transport Authority

Hino South Africa has handed over four mobile offices to the Gauteng Government Roads and Transport Department, which are to be used as Smart Driving Licencing Testing Centres by the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC). Two of the units will be used for driver and learner testing and the other two for eye-testing and driver’s licence renewals. The units will travel to remote areas of the…

Nov 20, 2024 Buzz

New branding for Mobil Delvac™ from African Group Lubricants

The latest branding for Mobil Delvac™, a highly recognised and valued brand for nearly 100 years, has been launched in South Africa by African Group Lubricants (AG Lubricants), the authorised distributor of the leading Mobil™ brand. “The aim is to refresh and reinforce the Mobil Delvac™ brand in South Africa and facilitate the selection of the most suitable products for all applications and…

Nov 20, 2024 Buzz

Volkswagen Group Africa commissions additional solar panels at Kariega plant

Volkswagen Group Africa has added an additional 3 megawatt (MW) solar power to its grid, bringing the total output of renewable energy to 5.9 MW. This is enough energy to power at least 2 000 two-bedroom houses fitted with geysers and using electrical appliances. The total number of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels across the company now stands at 12 097 of which 5 710 panels were recently…

Nov 20, 2024 Buzz

COIDA | Compensation Fund Contributions: You can possibly save on your annual contributions!

NEASA and its specialist service provider have helped employers save millions in Compensation Fund contributions. With well over 400 assisted employers to date, we have been successful in identifying savings for businesses of all sizes. This service is rendered on a success-based fee structure - no saving = no fee. Many companies, due to being incorrectly categorised by the Compensation Fund,…

Nov 20, 2024 Buzz

Employment Equity: Services for employers

Are you struggling to comply with the business-hostile legislative requirement of Government forcing you to employ on a basis other than merit? NEASA offers employment equity services for employers that will ensure your business maintains compliance, while not compromising on merit-based employment practices. Let NEASA ease your administrative and time-consuming headaches of dealing with the…

Nov 20, 2024 Buzz

Pack smart with Thule this holiday season

The December holidays are a great time to unwind, relax and enjoy your favourite leisure activities and for many South Africans that means hitting the open road to their favourite holiday destination. However, these leisure activities often require specific gear and packing the whole families gear and equipment can be an arduous task if your vehicle is not correctly equipped. Fortunately Thule,…

Nov 19, 2024 Buzz

ISUZU Foundation and IRONMAN4TheKidz Join Forces to Support Mossel Bay Charities with R250 000 Donation

ISUZU Foundation, in collaboration with IRONMAN4theKidz, donated R250,000 to three Mossel Bay charities dedicated to uplifting vulnerable youth, families, and individuals in need. This donation has been made possible through ISUZU Foundation’s commitment to contributing R100 for every entry into the ISUZU IRONMAN 70.3 Mossel Bay event which took place on Sunday, 17 November 2024. This…

Nov 19, 2024 Buzz

naamsa Releases the Quarterly Review of Business Conditions Report for Quarter 3, 2024

KEY FEATURES: THIRD QUARTER 2024 Third quarter 2024 aggregate industry employment as at 30th September 2024 totalled 33,309reflecting an increase of 72 jobs compared to the 33,237 industry head count as at the end of June2024; Aggregate new vehicle sales during the third quarter 2024 recorded a decline of 2,4% compared tothe corresponding quarter 2023 and an increase of 15,0% compared to the second…

Nov 19, 2024 Buzz

Zimbabwean exemption permits (ZEPs) deadlines reminder

In a July newsletter, NEASA provided an update surrounding the ZEP dispensation. We wish to remind all affected parties of the following relevant deadlines and periods of validity of the ZEPs: Current ZEP holders: extended and valid until 29 November 2024. Current holders of ZEPs are entitled to apply for New Exemption Permits, which will be valid until 29 November 2025, but which will not be…

Nov 19, 2024 Buzz

Alfa Romeo Junior, finalist for “Car of the Year”

Alfa Romeo proudly announces it has reached the final stages of the coveted international “Car of the Year” award. Junior was road tested and evaluated by a jury of industry experts, made up of 60 automotive journalists from 23 European countries. The shortlist reduces the title contenders from 42 to just 7 cars; as of now, they will be subjected to further technical analysis and dynamic tests.…

Nov 19, 2024 Buzz

BAIC SA Celebrates Customer Loyalty with a Memorable Appreciation Event at the Gqeberha Plant

BAIC SA proudly concluded its first Customer Appreciation Event with the theme of "Celebrating a Journey of Trust and Gratitude: From 8 to ∞" at its Gqeberha plant, hosting valued customers from across South Africa for a day of excitement, engagement, and gratitude. The theme of this event was evident as BAIC SA celebrates 8 years in South Africa. This exclusive event was a heartfelt celebration…

Nov 19, 2024 Buzz

Mahindra drives Lions Cricket

Mahindra South Africa has joined the mighty Lions Cricket as Official Vehicle Sponsor. The two-year partnership was signed recently at the home of Lions Cricket – DP Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg – where the Proteas were preparing for their clash with the Indian cricket team in the last of four T20 International matches. “As Mahindra enters its third decade in South Africa, we are excited to…

Nov 19, 2024 Buzz

Urgent notice: Potential power cuts in Johannesburg

Eskom has announced its intention to reduce or interrupt electricity supply to specific areas of Johannesburg, starting 3 January 2025. This decision follows a longstanding payment dispute with the City of Johannesburg (CoJ), which currently owes Eskom R4.9 billion, with an additional R1.4 billion due at the end of November 2024. Despite ongoing discussions, CoJ has not fulfilled payment…

Nov 18, 2024 Buzz

Introducing new, powerful headline partners

MasterDrive is proud to announce its upcoming third annual Fleet Safety Awards, a prestigious ceremony celebrating excellence in road safety across African industries. This landmark event is a first-of-its-kind in Africa quickly becoming a powerful opportunity to recognise organisations and individuals that go above and beyond to create safer roads. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says…

Nov 15, 2024 Buzz

Stellantis expands the FIAT and Jeep® brands in the North West Province

Stellantis announces the expansion of its multifranchise dealer network with the addition of the FIAT and Jeep® brands to the existing Westvaal Motor Group dealership in Klerksdorp in the Northwest Province. This expansion continues to strengthen Stellantis’ commitment to making these iconic brands more accessible to customers, offering a seamless and convenient experience. Westvaal Klerksdorp is…

Nov 15, 2024 Buzz

Automechanika Johannesburg and Futuroad Expo 2024: A Powerhouse of Innovation and Networking for the Automotive and Commercial Vehicle Industry

Automechanika Johannesburg, one of the leading global trade fairs for the automotive aftermarket industry, will be co-located with the Futuroad Expo 2024 from 19 to 21 November 2024, at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg. This strategic partnership brings together two major events that will cater to the full spectrum of the automotive and commercial vehicle sectors. With a focus on…

Nov 15, 2024 Buzz

Understanding the consequences of loan defaults on your credit score

Despite the best intentions and efforts, it can sometimes be challenging to stay on top of financial commitments, especially with the rising cost of living impacting many South African households. As a trusted partner in vehicle finance, WesBank aims to ensure that car buyers are aware of how loan defaults can affect their credit scores, and what steps to take to minimise the impact.…

Nov 15, 2024 Buzz

Unlocking the key to attracting talent to bodyshops

The bodyshop industry is struggling to attract skilled young people. Bart De Groof, Senior Global Marketing Director, Refinish, at Axalta, explains the challenges and what needs to be done to address them The shortage of skilled labour in bodyshops, particularly refinishers, is a complex issue. Attracting talent to the industry requires alignment of several multifaceted points: it’s an industry…

Nov 15, 2024 Buzz

Davide Grasso Appointed Stellantis Chief Heritage Officer

Stellantis has announced the appointment of Davide Grasso as Stellantis Chief Heritage Officer reporting to Carlos Tavares, Chief Executive Officer. In this newly created position, he will be responsible for the curation of the history and patrimony of the 14 brands of Stellantis. Creating a bridge between their rich histories and their future directions, this global role will build awareness and…

Nov 15, 2024 Buzz

South African motoring journalists join 300 international delegates at 2024 JETOUR Global Travel+ Conference

As Jetour continues to expand into several international markets, including having recently launched in South Africa, this year’s Global Travel+ Conference, saw over 300 international journalists travel to Fuzhou, China, to attend Jetour’s signature conference. 11 South African journalists were invited to be a part of this international delegation to learn more about Jetour’s Travel+ culture…

Nov 15, 2024 Buzz

Major milestone heralds the introduction of the New Nissan Magnite to Africa in South Africa

The New Nissan Magnite, launched to great acclaim globally in India last month, makes its highly anticipated South African debut with a two-day test series for local motoring journalists and influencers in Cape Town. First introduced to the world in 2020, the Nissan Magnite has quickly found its niche with more than 150 000 vehicles being across the globe. “We are very excited about the Magnite,…

Nov 15, 2024 Buzz

Get a grip on your vehicle’s wet-weather readiness

With Gauteng finally seeing the long-awaited rains, motorists are urged to exercise extra caution as the wet conditions make roads slick and unpredictable, says the Tyre, Equipment, Parts Association (TEPA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI). Vishal Premlall, TEPA’s National Director, explains that rain after a dry spell combines with oil and residue on the road,…

Nov 15, 2024 Buzz

2024 EMPLOYMENT EQUITY SUBMISSION: Do not compromise on merit-based employment practices

All designated employers must submit their 2024 EE reports from 1 September 2024 to 15 January 2025. Let NEASA assist your business in navigating the intricacies of the Employment Equity Act, including submitting your annual reports, ensuring your business is compliant while not compromising on the principle of merit-based employment. All designated employers must submit their 2024 EE reports…

Nov 15, 2024 Buzz

Refusal to be vaccinated: Labour Court declares dismissal unfair

In the matter of Cecillia Bessick v Baroque Medical, the Labour Court had to grapple with the issue as to whether the retrenchment of the Applicant was fair, due to her refusal to be vaccinated against Covid-19. The Court had to determine whether the employer complied with the obligations imposed on it by the Labour Relations Act (the Act) and the “Code of Good Practice: Managing Exposure to…

Nov 13, 2024 Buzz

MIWA Showcases Supplier Partnerships at Automechanika Johannesburg

The Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI) will be making a significant impact at this year's Automechanika Johannesburg, to be held at the Nasrec Expo Centre later this month from 19-21 November. MIWA will host the SpannerTorque Pavilion, a dynamic platform showcasing the innovative collaborations and partnerships that…

Nov 13, 2024 Buzz

JAC Motors' global bakkie export sales hit a new high!

JAC Motors set a new record in Chinese bakkie exports in September, shipping 7,054 units to over 130 markets. Sales data for the first three quarters of 2024 show that JAC Motors exported 47,600 units globally, marking a 13.7% year-on-year increase. The company now ranks first among domestic automobile brands, representing over 20% of all bakkie exports from China. The company's statement…

Nov 13, 2024 Buzz

Steel Industry employer - save your industry now!

Below is an important message from NEASA's Chief Executive, Gerhard Papenfus, on how to fight the immense pressure experienced by the Steel Industry.

Nov 13, 2024 Buzz

South Africa’s top luxury EV choice: Volvo’s electric lineup surges in sales

Volvo Car South Africa has cemented itself as a leader in the local electric vehicle segment, with combined sales totalling 467 between January and September 2024. With a three-car-strong range of cutting-edge battery-electric vehicles, Volvo is currently leading the premium electric segment, outpacing rivals in the luxury arena. The automaker has not only held the lead but also consistently…

Nov 13, 2024 Buzz

Dream Drive Sends South Africa’s Legendary BMW E30 ‘Gusheshe’ to Space

An unprecedented launch from the heart of South Africa celebrates dreams, car culture, and boundless possibilities. Dream Drive, an innovative online skill-based gaming platform, has launched a 1:18 scale model of the iconic BMW E30 325i, the ‘Gusheshe,’ to the stratosphere in an inspiring cinematic event. In collaboration with South African football legend Siphiwe Tshabalala, who is the Dream…

Nov 13, 2024 Buzz

A Moment of Reckoning: Ramaphosa confronts the ANC

In a moment both striking and revealing, Cyril Ramaphosa has admitted that the greatest threats facing the ANC are rooted within the party itself. While concerns over factionalism, careerism, and a decline in discipline have circulated for years, it is remarkable to see the President acknowledge these issues so candidly. Ramaphosa’s statement marks a turning point - a moment when the internal…

Nov 12, 2024 Buzz

2025 SA Car of the Year SAGMJ committee announced

The South African Guild of Mobility Journalists (SAGMJ) has announced a new Car of the Year (COTY) Committee for the 2025 Car of the Year competition, sponsored by Old Mutual Insure. The COTY Committee is mainly responsible for running the most prestigious and longest-running automotive competition in South Africa. It comprises highly capable automotive media members from the SAGMJ. They…

Nov 12, 2024 Buzz

Chery Global celebrates milestone of one million Tiggo 7 exports

Chery Global is celebrating a significant production milestone: one million Tiggo 7’s have been exported globally, underscoring the automaker’s commitment to international markets. “Achieving this milestone is a testament to Chery’s unwavering commitment to global markets such as South Africa,” said Jay Jay Botes, General Manager for Chery South Africa. “This achievement not only reflects the…

Nov 12, 2024 Buzz

Hyundai Open becomes part of golf’s Sunshine Tour

Hyundai Automotive South Africa has elevated its involvement with golf and the Sunshine Tour by signing up as a full tournament name sponsor for the second half of the 2024/2025 season. The Hyundai Open, with total prize money of R2 million, will be played at the Royal Johannesburg East Course in February next year. Hyundai Automotive SA, which is in its third year as a partner in the Sunshine…

Nov 12, 2024 Buzz

Stellantis Heritage starring at the “Milano Autoclassica” exhibition with Alfa Romeo

The Milano Autoclassica exhibition is underway from November 15 to 17, welcoming enthusiasts, experts, and trade insiders, all captivated by a constantly expanding sector that is gaining more and more interest from the public. In its fourteenth edition, hosted by Fiera Milano, the event focuses on the successful fusion between the past that preserves the historical legacy of the brands, and the…

Nov 12, 2024 Buzz

One week to go: Experience Automotive Excellence at Automechanika 2024

Automechanika 2024 is your gateway to the latest trends, technologies, and innovations in the automotive industry. This premier event is dedicated to showcasing the latest innovations, products and services in the automotive aftermarket and service industry, with opportunities to meet top suppliers, explore emerging technologies and attend valuable seminars and workshops. To find out more, click…

Nov 12, 2024 Buzz

Oracle Red Bull Racing Ignites South Africa’s F1 Dream with Thrilling New Short Film at Kyalami Circuit

Oracle Red Bull Racing proudly presents an exciting new short film that brings the energy of Formula 1 back to South African soil. Featuring F1 legend David Coulthard driving the renowned Oracle Red Bull Racing RB7, this film captures the epic sights and sounds of an F1 roaring around the historic Kyalami Circuit. Joining Coulthard is South African Spinner and Red Bull athlete, Samkeliso “SamSam”…

Nov 12, 2024 Buzz

NEASA Skills Training: Training December 2024

NEASA is offering skills training by accredited training providers in the following disciplines: Occupational Health and Safety - R1 050.00 excl. VAT Firefighting - R860.00 excl. VAT First Aid - R1 100.00 excl. VAT The training will be conducted in Kempton Park, Pietermaritzburg, Durban (Pinetown), Cape Town, and Klerksdorp. The exact venues will be communicated at a later stage. Contact Natasha…

Nov 11, 2024 Buzz

Paula Fabregat-Andreu, Renault brand design project director, has been named Woman of the Year 2024

Paula Fabregat-Andreu, Renault brand design project director, was named Woman of the Year 2024 by a jury of journalists[1] brought together by WAVE – Les Elles de l’Auto association on Thursday, November 7, during the association's annual gathering. This award recognizes her pivotal role in the renewal of automotive design at Renault. Leading the design of Renault's iconic models, balancing…

Nov 11, 2024 Buzz

You are cordially invited to the launch of the South African Association for Fleet Professionals

It is with great excitement that we invite you to the launch of the South African Association for Fleet Professionals (AFP) on 21 November 2024, at Automechanika Futuroad. This Association is a pioneering initiative dedicated to empowering and advancing fleet professionals across the country. As the industry faces rapid changes, technological advancements, and evolving business needs, the AFP…

Nov 11, 2024 Buzz

SA auto glass masters share top tips for business

Putting yourself last in line for paychecks, mastering entirely new fields of work, and knowing when to delegate to a manager are among the tough lessons that have helped South African entrepreneurs succeed in the competitive glass fitment industry. With Global Entrepreneurship Month in November, three thriving entrepreneurs from the My Glass network reflected on their learnings over decades of…

Nov 11, 2024 Buzz

Audi South Africa auctions the only RS 6 Avant GT; proceeds to be donated to a worthy NGO

Audi South Africa is proud to announce the successful sale of the final-edition Audi RS 6 Avant GT during an exclusive auction in Cape Town on 7 November 2024. The event featured the only RS 6 Avant GT available in Africa, number 74, making it a true collector’s item for local automotive enthusiasts. After a hotly contested round of bidding, the vehicle sold for R4,5 million. With only 660 units…

Nov 11, 2024 Buzz

The state of South Africa’s trade policies: Steel tariffs and economic stagnation

The recent increase in steel import duties highlights yet another instance of restrictive policies that impact growth and limit consumer choice in South Africa. In The Daily Friend, Martin van Staden references Dr. Morné Malan from the Free Market Foundation (FMF), who explains that South Africa’s emphasising of “localisation” over competition has created a system where local industries operate…

Nov 11, 2024 Buzz

Enable independent power producers

It seemed too good to be true, at first, but Eskom seems to have turned a corner. For the better part of 2024 Eskom has managed to keep the lights on. This is after a torrid few years of repeated rolling blackouts destroying industry and stifling economic growth. While it was cynically theorised that the advanced performance of the utility was due to the run-up to the election, a view I…

Nov 11, 2024 Buzz

Jetour teams up with Wesbank to launch financing for new affordable luxury suv's

Since officially entering the South African market in September this year, Jetour South Africa has entered into a venture with WesBank to provide financial services through Jetour Finance, a product of WesBank, a division of FirstRand Bank, trading under the name and style of Jetour Finance. This gives customers access to affordable and reliable vehicle finance solutions for the new SUV brand.…

Nov 08, 2024 Buzz

Driving Growth with AI and Customer Focus – TecTalk with Mann+Hummel

Hasmeet Kaur and Cedric Dackam from Mann+Hummel discuss customer-centricity and AI as pivotal factors for growth in the automotive aftermarket in TecTalk, the aftermarket podcast produced by TecAlliance. The conversation highlights how Mann+Hummel is approaching these strategies to address the evolving needs of the aftermarket industry and the opportunities created by the integration of OEMs…

Nov 08, 2024 Buzz

FAW Trucks Southern Africa Celebrates Record JH6 28.500FT Sales

FAW Trucks Southern Africa proudly celebrates a significant milestone in the sales of its flagship JH6 28.500FT model this year. This remarkable achievement underscores the model's exceptional performance, reliability, and the trust it has garnered among our valued customers. Notably, sales of the JH6 28.500FT in 2024 (July) have already exceeded the total performance for the 2023 period, setting…

Nov 08, 2024 Buzz

Reminder: Informal Workshop Webinar: Discipline, Absenteeism and Desertion | 21 November 2024

NEASA will be conducting an informal workshop webinar to ensure that business owners, managers, HR and IR managers, supervisors and team leaders are sufficiently trained in the practical and legal aspects of disciplining employees, including dealing with absenteeism and desertion. OBJECTIVES The objectives include providing delegates with an understanding of the following: Discipline short of…

Nov 08, 2024 Buzz

Your satisfaction matters: A personal commitment from NEASA's Chief Executive, Gerhard Papenfus

At NEASA, we are committed to delivering top-quality service that not only meets but exceeds your expectations. Below is a personal commitment from our Chief Executive, Gerhard Papenfus. Should your experience fall short of exceptional, we invite you to reach out to him directly. Your satisfaction remains our highest priority.

Nov 07, 2024 Buzz

US automotive industry set for change in trade, electric vehicle transition and regulations under Trump 2.0, says GlobalData

Following the election of Donald Trump and the significant changes anticipated for the US economy from a Trump 2.0 presidency; Jeff Schuster, Vice President Research Automotive at GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company, offers his view on some of the changes expected in the US automotive industry from Trump 2.0: “Automotive is one of the sectors that could see a significant mid-term…

Nov 06, 2024 Buzz

3M and Axalta Collaborate to Launch Training Content for Automotive Refinishing

3M and Axalta today announced a collaboration to introduce a new training content series focused on automotive refinishing. The series will feature five co-branded training modules, each intended to meaningfully help technicians and shops improve their understanding of repair process practices and drive greater operational outcomes. The brand-agnostic and accessible educational video content…

Nov 06, 2024 Buzz

Chery South Africa achieves record sales in October, strengthening its position in the local market

Chery South Africa reported record-breaking October sales of 1,831 vehicles, reflecting a 33.7% increase compared to October 2023. The brand ranks in the top 10 for overall new vehicle sales and is the fifth best-performing OEM in the passenger car market. This strong performance builds on impressive monthly results in the new passenger vehicle segment, with Chery recording 1,614 sales in…

Nov 06, 2024 Buzz

Powerful partners join forces for Fleet Safety Awards

MasterDrive is proud to host the third annual Fleet Safety Awards celebrating excellence and innovation in and commitment to road safety across all industries. It recognises organisations and individuals demonstrating outstanding commitment to making our roads safer. It is a one-of-its-kind event in Africa that places emphasis on those that espouse the values of ‘road safety.’ The CEO of…

Nov 06, 2024 Buzz

Kia makes exciting return to SEMA with custom EV concepts destined for adventure

Kia this week unveiled two all-new customised concept vehicles at the 2024 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas. Imagined by designers from Kia Design Centre America, the concepts bring to life an easy to imagine future where vehicles will provide the ultimate in capability, adaptability, utility and organisation, all with an eye on sustainability. Known as a showcase…

Nov 06, 2024 Buzz

Stellantis WePledge improves ownership experience

The excitement of buying a new car is short-lived when the realities of owning, driving, and maintaining take over. Stellantis understands that responsibility but doesn’t want the excitement to end. WePledge is the answer for peace-of-mind and ownership satisfaction for the duration of all Stellantis vehicles’ warranties. “Whilst customers are at the heart of Stellantis, their satisfaction with…

Nov 06, 2024 Buzz

Bakwena’s charity golf day raises R180 500 for Cansa, Thusanang Day Care Centre and Haws (Hartebeespoort Animal Welfare Society)

On Tuesday, 29 October 2024, Bakwena Platinum Corridor Concessionaire (Pty) Ltd (Bakwena) hosted its 15th annual charity golf day at Centurion Country Club, raising an impressive R180 500 to benefit local charities. Since its inception, this popular fundraiser has raised over R2.5 million to support seven community-focused organisations. To maximise the impact of the donation, Bakwena selected…

Nov 06, 2024 Buzz

Lexus announces 2024 Miami Art & Design Week installation in collaboration with Crafting Plastics

Lexus has announced its collaboration with award-winning design and research studio Crafting Plastics to present an interactive, multi-sensory installation during Miami Art & Design Week 2024. In partnership with the Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami (ICA Miami), the installation will be on view in the Museum’s sculpture garden this December. To accompany the installation, Lexus will debut a…

Nov 06, 2024 Buzz

Range Rover House makes African debut at southern-most tip of the continent

Range Rover House, an exclusive invitation-only guest experience, made its African debut in October in an exquisite private villa which embodies Range Rover’s vision of modern luxury design leadership. Range Rover House South Africa nestled at the foot of Table Mountain in the upmarket Western Cape suburb of Bishopscourt. This opulent private villa features expansive gardens and sophisticated,…

Nov 06, 2024 Buzz

Arash Radgoudarzi Appointed as President Henkel South Africa, Championing Innovation, Sustainability, and Employee Engagement

Henkel South Africa is excited to announce the appointment of Arash Radgoudarzi as the new President Henkel South Africa. Radgoudarzi brings over two decades of experience with Henkel, where he has driven innovation, fostered collaboration, and advanced sustainability. His strategic leadership will strengthen Henkel South Africa’s position in the region and contribute to Henkel’s global success.…

Nov 06, 2024 Buzz

Toyota kicks off last quarter sales in high gear

Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) continues to lead local vehicle sales, achieving 11,891 sales of the overall 47,942 units sold to domestic customers during October. This translates to a market share of 24.8%. TSAM also topped the charts in the Passenger, Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) and Medium Commercial Vehicle (MCV) segments. Reflecting on the new vehicle sales statistics, Naamsa said that…

Nov 05, 2024 Buzz

Daimler Truck Southern Africa together with our valued dealer partners and Trucking Wellness appreciate drivers this transport month

Daimler Truck Southern Africa (DTSA) celebrated the 2024 Transport Month with selected dealerships along major routes of South Africa through the appreciation of truck drivers with gift hampers. This year, the initiative reached key areas including Bloemfontein, together with our dealer Garden City Commercials Bloemfontein; Harrismith, together with our dealer Garden City Commercials…

Nov 05, 2024 Buzz

Nissan opens SA corporate head office to get closer to dealers and customers

Nissan South Africa officially opened its new South African operational headquarters in Irene. The new head office will serve as the hub for the company’s administrative and strategic functions in South Africa and its Independent Markets Africa division. The building will enhance collaboration, streamline processes, and better serve its customers, explained Nissan South Africa and Independent…

Nov 05, 2024 Buzz

Suzuki Auto South Africa sets new sales record in October

Suzuki Auto South Africa and its network of 113 dealers hit it out of the park in October with an incredible new sales record. According to the official sales report – published by industry body naamsa on the first business day of every month – 6,006 new Suzuki passenger vehicles were sold to customers during October: an average of nearly 194 vehicles sold every day. This figure represents a new…

Nov 05, 2024 Buzz

First fuel price increase in six months signals shift in market conditions

The South African Petroleum Retailers Association (SAPRA), a proud member of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), announces a slight increase in fuel prices today, following five months of consecutive decreases. The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy confirmed the adjustments are effective from midnight on Tuesday 5 November impacting motorists this Wednesday, 6 November 2024…

Nov 04, 2024 Buzz

Safety upgrades a game-changer for racer living with a disability

Safety is a priority for anyone participating in and overseeing motorsport, but it is even more so when participants are living with a disability. With November being National Disability Rights Awareness month the story of Jarrod Blackman is particularly significant. Imagine being an off-road racer with a disability and receiving news that your racing car will be fitted with major safety…

Nov 04, 2024 Buzz

Steel Industry reminder: Anti-dumping duties: Participant survey

For purposes of NEASA’s collective general submission to ITAC in opposition to the proposed duties, we require businesses affected by these duties to complete a survey by no later than close of business on 8 November 2024, by clicking here. For enquiries, please contact Rona Bekker on 076 998 6849 or email rona@neasa.co.za.

Nov 04, 2024 Buzz

Stellantis Expands PEUGEOT, Citroën, and Opel Offerings in the Western Cape Through Rola Motor City

Stellantis continues its strategic expansion in South Africa, extending the availability of its PEUGEOT, Citroën, and Opel brands through Rola Motor City in Somerset West, Western Cape. This new addition strengthens the brand’s foothold in the region, bringing these iconic brands closer to customers in the area while maintaining a focus on providing a seamless and personalized experience. The…

Nov 04, 2024 Buzz

CILTSA's Women Empowerment Conference Inspires Future Leaders in Transport and Logistics

The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport South Africa (CILTSA) successfully hosted its second Women in Logistics, Transport, and Supply Chain Empowerment Conference on Friday, October 25, at the Birchwood Hotel & OR Tambo Conference Centre in Boksburg, Johannesburg. The event, supported by industry leaders Air France, CMA CGM, Isuzu, JC Auditors, K3 Brokers, CVLC Communication, and…

Nov 04, 2024 Buzz

Automechanika Shanghai celebrates 20 years with interactive anniversary events

In honour of the 20th anniversary of Automechanika Shanghai, the fair will provide unique experiential activities for visitors to enjoy, incorporating the elements of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) as a through line for them all. The show will take place from 2 to 5 December, and anticipates a record 6,500 exhibitors across 350,000 sqm and 14 halls of the National Exhibition and…

Nov 04, 2024 Buzz

Tiger Wheel & Tyre Responds to Recent Vehicle Theft Incident and Reinforces Security Measures Amid Investigation

Tiger Wheel & Tyre acknowledges, with regret, a recent incident at one of our service centres, where a vehicle was fraudulently collected by an unauthorised individual posing as collecting said vehicle on behalf of the owner. We understand and share the concerns this has raised among our customers and the broader community. We are working closely with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to…

Nov 04, 2024 Buzz

Put Liberty First: GNU must cut onerous regulations if it's serious about economic growth

“Over-regulation, particularly in South Africa’s labour, education, and healthcare sectors debilitates economic growth and slows social progress.” Morné Malan, FMF Deputy Head of Policy. On Tuesday, 5 November, at 11h00, the Free Market Foundation (FMF) will host an online briefing during which FMF Deputy Head of Policy, Dr Morné Malan, will show why deregulation is the most effective tool for…

Nov 04, 2024 Buzz

Stellantis hosted an experiential driver training day in a tranquil setting for an exclusive Jeep® and Alfa Romeo Woman’s Day event

Adventure and performance dominated the experience of women customers who conquered an experiential driving day with the Alfa Romeo and Jeep® brands. The varied levels of experience across the contingent were tamed during the day over a specialised Jeep 4x4 track with an advanced cross-axle that challenged even the experienced Jeep ladies in their Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator cars. Now they…

Nov 04, 2024 Buzz

Volkswagen partners with SAFA to help move women‘s football forward

Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA) is proud to announce its partnership with the South African Football Association, SAFA. The vehicle partnership between VWGA and South African Football Association marks a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to support the development of girls’ and women’s football in South Africa. All the national women’s teams including the under-20 (Basetsana), the…

Nov 04, 2024 Buzz

Ford South Africa Closes Its Centenary Celebration with the Final Installment of ‘Our Ford Stories’

The Celebration of the Century Ford South Africa’s 100th anniversary is more than a milestone, it’s a testament to resilience, unity, and an enduring legacy. As the first automaker to set roots in South Africa, Ford’s century-long journey has been one of constant growth, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on both its people and the communities around it. To…

Nov 04, 2024 Buzz

Stellantis expands Opel, PEUGEOT, and Citroën brands in Mpumalanga

Stellantis announces the expansion of its multifranchise dealer network with the introduction of Opel, PEUGEOT, and Citroën brands at a new McCarthy Kunene in eMalahleni (formerly Witbank), Mpumalanga. This expansion continues to strengthen Stellantis’ commitment to making these iconic brands more accessible to customers, offering a seamless and convenient experience. McCarthy Kunene is already…

Nov 01, 2024 Buzz

naamsa releases October 2024 new vehicle sales statistics

Reflecting on the new vehicle sales statistics naamsa | The Automotive Business Council said that the positive start to the last quarter with the highest sales month of the year, including the highest passenger car sales month since October 2019, was encouraging for the medium-term new vehicle market outlook. Mikel Mabasa, naamsa CEO said that aggregate domestic new vehicle sales in October 2024,…

Nov 01, 2024 Buzz

Stellantis Expands FIAT and Jeep® Availability in Eastern Cape through Meyers Motors

Stellantis announces the expansion of its multifranchise dealer network in the Eastern Cape, with the introduction of the iconic FIAT and Jeep® brands at Meyers Motors in East London in the Eastern Cape. This expansion continues to strengthen Stellantis’ commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences by making these renowned brands more accessible across the region. With a legacy…

Nov 01, 2024 Buzz

Fuels Industry Association of South Africa Standardises Cylinder Deposit Fees to Streamline Industry Practices

The Fuels Industry Association of South Africa is pleased to announce a significant step forward in the standardisation of cylinder deposit fees across the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) sector. Following an approach to the Competition Commission, the Association has secured approval to implement uniform deposit fees for LPG cylinders, marking a milestone that will benefit both the industry and…

Nov 01, 2024 Buzz

Expressive design and new lightning technology – the upgraded Audi Q8 and SQ8 arrive in South Africa

Audi has updated the flagship of the Q family with a purer design language and upgraded technology. The revised exterior aesthetic with new front and rear aprons underscores the strong character of the SUV coupé. For the first time, Audi is equipping the Q8 with HD Matrix LED headlights featuring digital daytime running lights and a quartet of selectable light signatures. Digital OLED rear lights…

Nov 01, 2024 Buzz

Steel Industry: Anti-dumping duties: Participant survey

For purposes of NEASA’s collective general submission to ITAC in opposition to the proposed duties, we require businesses affected by these duties to complete a survey by no later than close of business on 8 November 2024, by clicking here. For enquiries, please contact Rona Bekker on 076 998 6849 or email rona@neasa.co.za.

Nov 01, 2024 Buzz

Toyota Strengthens Commitment to Adventure with third year as Official FNB Wines2Whales Vehicle Partner

The highly anticipated Wines2Whales mountain biking race is back, offering a fun and challenging adventure for riders of all levels. Taking place between Friday, 1 – Sunday, 10 November, this iconic event promises not only breathtaking trails but also a spirit of fun and camaraderie that has earned it the nickname "The Race with GEES." With stunning routes that wind through the Cape Winelands and…

Nov 01, 2024 Buzz

Subaru expands with new dealership in Cape Town and service centre in Namibia

Subaru Southern Africa is delighted to announce new additions to our growing network, enhancing convenience and support for our valued Subaru community. Welcome to Subaru Bellville in Cape Town Starting 1 November, Subaru Bellville will open its doors, proudly serving as a central hub for Subaru sales, service, and parts in the Cape Town area. Located in the heart of Bellville, near Tyger Valley…

Nov 01, 2024 Buzz

Castrol observes Transport Month – and is proud of its partnership with distributors who put safety, quality, value first

Transport – on roads, rails, air, water – is vital to our economy. Transport moves people to work, children to school and goods to market, driving commerce and trade, and enhancing quality of life. In October, we celebrate Transport Month in South Africa, recognizing the role of transport in our economy and the people and businesses that help make it safe, reliable, affordable and sustainable.…

Oct 31, 2024 Buzz

FMF bemoans balanced but bloated budget

The Free Market Foundation (FMF) notes that while Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana, has managed to balance the budget, his government is still far too big to begin with. At today’s Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS), Minister Godongwana noted that the government will record a primary budget surplus of 1.8%, excluding debt servicing costs. However, South Africa’s national debt burden…

Oct 31, 2024 Buzz

TecAlliance to Present Industry-Leading Solutions at Automechanika Johannesburg

TecAlliance, the leading expert for data management and processes in the automotive aftermarket, is excited to announce its participation at Automechanika Johannesburg 2024. From November 19 to 21, visitors are invited to Booth 6B16 to explore the latest advancements in Africa’s automotive sector and discover how TecAlliance’s innovative solutions can drive their business forward. Visitors to the…

Oct 31, 2024 Buzz

Wekaba Launches R25-Million State-of-the-Art Automotive Manufacturing Plant

Strengthens Position as a Leading Manufacturer of Precision CNC Components Wekaba, a leading manufacturer of medium to high-volume CNC machined automation components, has officially inaugurated its new R25-million automotive manufacturing plant, which the company says is a groundbreaking facility that will extend its capability to produce internationally designed components at world-class…

Oct 31, 2024 Buzz

THE EXTRA MILE by EQUIP AUTO, the first edition of this new business event kicks off EQUIP AUTO Paris 2025

On Wednesday 16 October, La Seine Musicale hosted THE EXTRA MILE by EQUIP AUTO, the new European business event for the upstream and downstream automotive industry. This half-day and evening event gave professionals the opportunity to take part in panel discussions on the major challenges facing the automotive, aftersales and service sectors, and to discover the new programme for the 50th edition…

Oct 31, 2024 Buzz

Jetour hosts first Journey with Jetour customer event in Cape Winelands

Celebrating the newest SUV at one of the oldest Wine Estates in South Africa - this past weekend saw Jetour host some of their first customers at Boschendal in the Cape Winelands. As the first Journey with Jetour customer event in South Africa, the occasion saw Jetour bring together customers who have been amongst the first to purchase the new Dashing or X70 Plus models, two of the new SUVs…

Oct 30, 2024 Buzz

MICHELIN Connected Fleet Celebrates Successful Launch of Trailer Premium Offer During Transport Month, Addressing Key Trailer Management Challenges in Fleet Operations

MICHELIN Connected Fleet proudly unveiled its new Trailer Premium offer, a comprehensive solution designed to assist fleet operators in overcoming pressing challenges related to trailer management, compliance, safety, and efficiency. This significant launch took place during the Transport Month Power Brunch, co-hosted with the Road Transport Management System (RTMS) and industry leaders, aiming…

Oct 30, 2024 Buzz

The truth is incontrovertible: Economic freedom creates prosperity, state control destroys it

The free market is the only way to create human prosperity. State control, on the other hand, produces nothing but poverty and stagnation. This is the undeniable truth. We have the proof. The 2024 Economic Freedom of the World (EFW) report makes this point crystal clear, providing data that leave no room for doubt. What is Economic Freedom? Economic freedom means that individuals have the…

Oct 30, 2024 Buzz

Empowering Women in Leadership: Navigating the Contemporary Corporate Landscape

The contemporary corporate world is undergoing a pivotal transformation, propelled by the increasing recognition that diversity in the workplace drives innovation, profitability, and sustainable growth. However, despite the acknowledgment of the value women bring to leadership roles, their underrepresentation in executive positions and on corporate boards remains a significant challenge. The…

Oct 30, 2024 Buzz

Leaders share expectations for medium-term budget speech

This week, all eyes will be focused on Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana who on 30 October, will be delivering his Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS). Financial services leaders and experts have outlined their optimism this year, recognising that there are clear opportunities to accelerate South Africa’s economy. However, they also caution that there are various challenges that need to…

Oct 30, 2024 Buzz

New Alfa Romeo Junior wins "autonis" design award

Another design award for the new Alfa Romeo Junior: with its victory in the “autonis” competition, the new compact sports car not only expands its trophy collection, but also carries on the Italian brand's great tradition studded with a long series of successes in the annual design competition organized by the German magazine auto motor und sport. This year, more than 14,000 readers took part in…

Oct 29, 2024 Buzz

UIF SYSTEM FAILURES: Ongoing issues despite assurances

Despite confirmation from the Minister of Employment and Labour that the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) online system is fully functional, employers and employees continue to face severe challenges. The supposed restoration of the system has not translated into practical, operational functionality, leaving employers struggling to fulfill their compliance obligations and employees from…

Oct 29, 2024 Buzz

2024 EMPLOYMENT EQUITY SUBMISSION: Do not compromise on merit-based employment practices

All designated employers must submit their 2024 EE reports from 1 September 2024 to 15 January 2025, using the online system of the Department of Employment and Labour. Let NEASA assist your business in navigating the intricacies of the Employment Equity Act, including submitting your annual reports, ensuring your business is compliant while not compromising on the principle of merit-based…

Oct 29, 2024 Buzz

Hanekom appointed as National Director of SAMBRA

Juan Hanekom has been appointed as the National Director of the South African Motor Body Repairers’ Association (SAMBRA), effective 21 October 2024. Hanekom joins SAMBRA at a critical time when the SAMBRA National Executive committee is striving to maintain collaborative business partnerships in order to manage industry critical issues. He brings with him a wealth of experience and a strong track…

Oct 29, 2024 Buzz

Africa Road Safety Summit: Registration closing soon

MasterDrive is co-hosting the Africa Road Safety Summit this week. It is a hybrid event which drivers across Africa can attend. It is part of MasterDrive’s Transport Month initiative where focus is placed on road safety issues. Castrol, the leading lubricants company, have joined as headline partner. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says the powerful line-up of speakers will address many…

Oct 29, 2024 Buzz

NADA supports a balanced and transparent approach

The National Automobile Dealers’ Association (NADA) acknowledges the Competition Commission of South Africa’s (CCSA) revised Automotive Aftermarket Guidelines, published at the end of September 2024. These updates aim to foster greater inclusivity and competition, creating a structured and transparent environment that empowers consumers with more choices. “We fully support a healthy and…

Oct 28, 2024 Buzz

Suzuki Auto South Africa shines bright at SAVRALA MOTY Awards

Suzuki Auto South Africa scooped two honours at the annual South African Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (SAVRALA) Manufacturer of The Year 2024 (MOTY) Awards. Now in its 29th year, this coveted award ceremony pays tribute to top-performing vehicle manufacturers operating in South Africa’s rental, leasing and fleet management industries. At a prestigious gala event held in Johannesburg on…

Oct 28, 2024 Buzz

Stellantis and Factorial Take Next Step to Accelerate the Future of Electric Vehicles with Solid-State Battery Technology

Stellantis N.V. and Factorial Inc. (Factorial) unveiled the next chapter in their partnership to accelerate the development and deployment of next-generation electric vehicles (EVs) powered by Factorial’s solid-state battery technology. This initiative builds upon the $75 million investment Stellantis made in Factorial in 2021. Stellantis will launch a demonstration fleet of all-new Dodge Charger…

Oct 28, 2024 Buzz

Pioneering Past, Innovative Future – Ford Continues Building a Powerful Legacy in South Africa

– It has been an entire year since Ford South Africa kicked off its Centenary celebrations, marking the company’s exceptional legacy that helped create and shape the automotive industry that we have today – one that, in 2023, accounted for 5.3 percent of the country’s total GDP and 21.9 percent of its manufacturing output according to Naamsa, the Automotive Business Council*. Approximately 116…

Oct 28, 2024 Buzz

Put Liberty First: Cutting down the bloated government must be the key focus in Godongwana’s MTBPS

On Tuesday, 29 October, at 11h00, the Free Market Foundation (FMF) will host an online briefing during which FMF Head of Policy, Martin van Staden, will outline key demands ahead of the medium-term budget policy statement (MTBPS) which will take place on Wednesday, 30 October. Van Staden will also brief media on the policy recommendations offered in his paper entitled “Liberty First: Size of…

Oct 25, 2024 Buzz

Iveco South Africa celebrates successful handover at Courier Incubator initiative

Iveco South Africa proudly marks a significant milestone with the successful handover of vehicles through the Courier Incubator initiative, to The Courier Guy and InterTown Transport. This groundbreaking project is designed to empower young women and promote diversity within the courier and logistics industry. The event, which took place at the end of August, highlighted Iveco's ongoing…

Oct 25, 2024 Buzz

Frontline forward: Insights from non-desk employees in ever-changing work environments

The experiences of frontline workers are reshaping how companies handle employee engagement, communication, and empowerment in a world where work is becoming more dispersed. While debates about the future of office-based, remote and hybrid work models continue, frontline workers have long been navigating the challenges of dispersed, non-office environments. Although the challenges facing…

Oct 25, 2024 Buzz

Small businesses need supply chain skills to survive

The success of small businesses - which are the backbone of South Africa’s economy - is being jeopardised by a lack of resources, skills and support in the critical area of supply chain management, according to supply chain industry body SAPICS. “Small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) have a crucial role to play in the national economy as employers that can fight the country’s dire…

Oct 25, 2024 Buzz

Urgent Message to the Steel Industry: Collective voice needed to oppose severe anti-dumping duties

This message from NEASA Chief Executive, Gerhard Papenfus, regarding the proposed steel import duties is addressed to you. For further information or to participate, please send an email to rona@neasa.co.za

Oct 25, 2024 Buzz

Informal Workshop Webinar: Discipline, Absenteeism and Desertion | 21 November 2024

NEASA will be conducting an informal workshop webinar to ensure that business owners, managers, HR and IR managers, supervisors and team leaders are sufficiently trained in the practical and legal aspects of disciplining employees, including dealing with absenteeism and desertion. OBJECTIVES The objectives include providing delegates with an understanding of the following: Discipline short of…

Oct 25, 2024 Buzz

Gear Up for Automechanika South Africa: Your Automotive Aftermarket Powerhouse

Automechanika South Africa is the premier international trade fair for the automotive service industry in the Sub-Saharan region. This annual event brings together leading manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors of automotive parts, components, equipment, and services under one roof. It offers a unique opportunity for businesses to showcase their latest products and solutions, network with…

Oct 24, 2024 Buzz

Rare earth magnetic filters for the quench and lubricating oil industries

A range of rare earth magnetic filters developed specifically for the quench and lubricating oil industries is available from ISO-Reliability Partners, reveals Craig FitzGerald. The range not only aims to extend the life of pumps and components, but also to further extend the life of our filter elements, thereby essentially reducing the total cost of ownership as related to machine wear, useful…

Oct 24, 2024 Buzz

Toyota South Africa recognised at the 2024 Naamsa Accelerator Awards

Cape Town Convention Centre: This year’s instalment of SA Autoweek celebrated a century of vehicle manufacturing in South Africa. The festivities culminated in the Naamsa Accelerator Awards event which took place Friday, 18 October, where Toyota South Africa Motors was honoured with four accolades. Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) took top honours in the Transformation: Job Creators OEMs…

Oct 24, 2024 Buzz

Ombud Council welcomes Re-appointment of FAIS ombud

The Ombud Council welcomes Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s re-appointment of Advocate John Simpson as Ombud for Financial Services Providers (FAIS Ombud) for a further three year period, from November 2024 to end October 2027. We congratulate Advocate Simpson on his re-appointment and wish him and his team every success in their vital task of providing fair, impartial, and accessible recourse…

Oct 24, 2024 Buzz

Entrepreneurship: A Critical Engine for South Africa’s Future — Aligned with Tata International Africa’s Mission to Uplift Communities

Entrepreneurship in South Africa is essential for economic empowerment and societal upliftment. With one of the highest youth unemployment rates globally, the need for innovative, community-driven ventures is a priority. Entrepreneurship drives job creation, offering economic inclusion in a country where millions face limited traditional employment opportunities. This transformative power of…

Oct 24, 2024 Buzz

FAIS Ombud releases its Annual Report for the financial year 2023/2024

The Office of the FAIS Ombud launched its Annual Report for the 2023/2024 Financial Year. The launch of this year’s annual report will be virtual utilising this Office’s social media platforms, together with a webinar highlighted by the Ombud that will provide information on the performance of the Office of the FAIS Ombud during the financial year as well as its financial affairs. In his…

Oct 24, 2024 Buzz

The Manufacturing Indaba 2024 Closes to a Resounding Success

As the 11th annual Manufacturing Indaba 2024 comes to a close, we are thrilled to celebrate the overwhelming success of this year’s event. Over the past few days, industry leaders, innovators, and experts have come together to drive impactful conversations and explore the future of manufacturing in Africa. A heartfelt thank you to all our partners, sponsors, exhibitors, and attendees who…

Oct 24, 2024 Buzz

Sovereign wealth fund is a foolish idea

The South African Communist Party (SACP) has reiterated its desire for South Africa to establish a sovereign wealth fund, citing the country’s wealth of natural resources that can capitalise said fund. What the SACP is ignoring is that a sovereign wealth fund is a highly sophisticated institution, relying not only on a non-corrupt and highly competent investment infrastructure and government, but…

Oct 24, 2024 Buzz

The most hijacked vehicle colours in South Africa

Into the first half of 2024, security firms and insurers have raised concerns about a surge in hijackings, with bold or unusual car colours no longer serving as a deterrent. Fidelity ADT reported a noticeable rise in hijackings within their operational areas during the first half of 2024, compared to both the same period in 2023 and the latter half of that year. Nearly half of these incidents are…

Oct 24, 2024 Buzz

Partquip Expands Digital Presence with TecDoc Integration as a Data Supplier

Partquip, a leading wholesale distributor of high-quality auto parts, is excited to announce its new role as a data supplier for the TecDoc Catalogue. With over 41 years of experience in providing Southern Africa with a select range of guaranteed auto parts, Partquip is now enhancing its service by integrating its extensive product portfolio into this industry-leading platform. For more than four…

Oct 24, 2024 Buzz

Sign up now for the CILT Namibia/SA/Zimbabwe Conference at Futuroad Expo 19-21 November, South Africa

Hosted by CILT Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe, the conference themed "Unlocking Sub-Saharan Africa's Potential: Transforming Transport and Logistics for a Sustainable Future," will take place from November 19-21 at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg. The three-day Agenda focuses on five key logistics and transport pillars: Infrastructure Intra-Africa Trade Safety and Security Skills…

Oct 23, 2024 Buzz

Investment in economic freedom always yields dividends

When WB Yeats gave us the line “Things fall apart; the centre cannot hold” he was speaking to the deepest foundations of our lives. The need for maintenance transcends the layers of our existence. Just as a mechanical machine, a mere fruit of our civilisation, must be maintained lest it fall apart, so too does the foundation of our civilisation demand our attention. Each layer must fit that…

Oct 23, 2024 Buzz

Silver bullets are for shooting werewolves

Magical catch-all solutions that solve every business problem simply don’t exist. It’s time businesses lean into complexity instead of fearing it, says Dirk Ras, Architect at Dariel Software. A lycanthrope, or werewolf, is a mythological creature that transforms from human to wolf during a full moon. Known for its supernatural strength and violent tendencies, it can be killed using a silver…

Oct 23, 2024 Buzz

naamsa Accelerator Awards Crowns Excellence in Automotive Innovation at the SA Auto Week 2024

The naamsa Accelerator Awards, powered by WesBank, were a stunning apogee to the highly anticipated SA Auto Week 2024. Hosted at the Cape Town International Convention Centre [CTICC] on the evening of Friday, October 18, the awards ceremony brought together industry and government leaders, innovators, journalists, and key stakeholders to honour the finest achievements across the automotive value…

Oct 23, 2024 Buzz

Collision Industry Red Carpet Awards Tuesday Night during SEMA

Members of the collision repair industry are invited to attend in the Collision Industry Red Carpet Awards event, held on Tuesday night, November 5, during the 2024 SEMA Show! The Red Carpet Awards are a noteworthy fixture of the SEMA Show week, featuring prestigious recognitions from industry organizations that celebrate standout achievements and character within the collision repair industry.…

Oct 23, 2024 Buzz

AAPEX 2024 Is Just 2 Weeks Away ...

AAPEX 2024 is Almost Here — Are You In? We’re two weeks out from AAPEX 2024, and this is your last chance to lock in your spot! You can’t afford to miss what’s in store: Hands-on training to sharpen your skills (+ MORE sessions and topics than ever before!) Live demos showcasing the latest products and technologies An even bigger show floor, packed with new exhibitors and cutting-edge solutions…

Oct 22, 2024 Buzz

Post-100 day honeymoon, GNU must initiate dramatic overhaul of trade policy

During a media briefing on Tuesday, 22 October, the Free Market Foundation (FMF) called on the Government of National Unity (GNU) to dramatically overhaul the trade policy environment in South Africa. These calls follow from a policy paper, developed by the FMF, which provides recommendations to policymakers in South Africa’s post-2024 government to enable greater freedom to trade – thereby…

Oct 22, 2024 Buzz

WesBank congratulates the winners of the 2024 naamsa Accelerator Awards

WesBank, proud sponsor of the naamsa Accelerator Awards, congratulates all the winners in this year’s competition, as well as the finalists who made the shortlist for 2024. Held at the conclusion of SA Auto Week, the awards bestowed honour on individuals and organisations that stood out in 2024 for consistently pursuing excellence in their respective fields and fostered innovation that catapults…

Oct 22, 2024 Buzz

ISUZU claims triple victory at the 2024 naamsa Accelerator Awards

ISUZU MOTORS South Africa (ISUZU) received awards in three categories at the prestigious 2024 naamsa, the Automotive Business Council, Accelerator Awards held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre on Friday, 18th October 2024. The Awards include the Transformation Performance Award, Heavy and Medium Commercial vehicles of the year for New Vehicle Sales for the F-series and N-series…

Oct 22, 2024 Buzz

Suzuki Clean Ocean Project helps revive the Hennops River

Suzuki, the world’s ultimate outboard motor brand, is focused on providing its customers with an unrivalled experience on coastal and inland waterways. As this requires a healthy and unpolluted environment, the brand is spearheading its “Suzuki Clean Ocean Project” that aims to contribute towards cleaner oceans and rivers in countries around the globe. It’s a programme made up of three core…

Oct 22, 2024 Buzz

Empowering road safety education in Limpopo

Bakwena Platinum Corridor Concessionaire (Pty) Ltd (Bakwena) joined hands with Active Education and the Limpopo Department of Basic Education to successfully deliver impactful and engaging road safety education shows to five primary schools in the Limpopo region along the Bakwena N1N4 route. The World Health Organisation’s 2023 Global Status report on road safety shows that the number of annual…

Oct 22, 2024 Buzz

UD Trucks Southern Africa Triumphs at the 2024 naamsa | Automobile Business Council Awards

UD Trucks Southern Africa (UDTSA) continues to make strides in the local automotive industry, securing three prestigious awards at the 2024 naamsa | Automobile Business Council Awards. The awards ceremony, held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre on Friday, 18 October, marked the conclusion of a week-long celebration of South Africa’s automotive achievements with 100-year…

Oct 22, 2024 Buzz

Daimler Truck Southern Africa shines at the NAAMSA SA Auto Week’s Accelerator Awards Evening

Daimler Truck Southern Africa (DTSA) is ecstatic to have walked away with four awards at the NAAMSA Accelerator Awards evening held on October 18, 2024. The awards included the Extra-Heavy Commercial Vehicle of the Year in the category of New Vehicle Sales, awarded to the Mercedes-Benz Actros. This is the second consecutive year that the Mercedes-Benz Actros has received this award. DTSA also…

Oct 21, 2024 Buzz

Bridgestone’s green initiatives are a step toward a sustainable South Africa

Bridgestone South Africa, in partnership with Food & Trees for Africa (FTFA), is making a tangible impact in communities across the country by addressing two critical challenges: food insecurity and environmental degradation. Through a nationwide effort, FTFA is planting trees, establishing food gardens, and empowering communities to thrive sustainably. Boosting Food Security and Community…

Oct 21, 2024 Buzz

Put Liberty First: GNU must prioritise free trade to boost economic growth

Tomorrow, Tuesday, 22 October, at 11h00, the Free Market Foundation (FMF) will host an online briefing during which it will unpack its latest paper entitled: ‘Freedom to Trade Internationally’, by Dr Morné Malan, Deputy Head of Policy at the FMF. The event marks the first instalment in a series of five online briefings, during which leading thinkers at the FMF, who are experts in their fields,…

Oct 21, 2024 Buzz

Employment Equity: Government's increased obsession with race-based laws

Labour Minister, Nomakhosazana Meth, in parliament, recently announced plans to significantly expand their inspectorate by increasing the number of inspectors from 2000 to 20 000 through appointing interns as inspectors. This expansion will, according to the Minister, “enhance the inspectorate’s ability” to conduct Employment Equity (EE) audits and inspections. For the following reasons there is…

Oct 21, 2024 Buzz

Solar might not be that green, but it got us out of the red

Free markets are sometimes thought to be better at the ‘how’ of solving problems, rather than ‘what’ the actual problem is to be solved. Mechanically, free markets are innovative and efficient and offer the consumer choice; in the latter lies the rub. This can lead to market failures due to short-sightedness in decisions regarding externalities that require central distribution networks,…

Oct 21, 2024 Buzz

Chery Global User Champion Night: South African Fashion Influencer Sphokuhle N. Wins the Global Champion Award

On October 17th, the Chery Global User Champion Night commenced in Wuhu, China, where top KOCs gathered to participate in this exciting event. After intense competition, South African lifestyle trendsetter, Sphokuhle Ntshalintshali, emerged victorious, receiving Chery's highest KOC honor – the Global Champion Award – for her remarkable influence and contribution. Sphokuhle N. is a well-known…

Oct 21, 2024 Buzz

Ford Delivers 100th Maths and Science Laboratory in Landmark Legacy CSR Project

In celebration of its 100th anniversary, Ford South Africa, in partnership with Ford Philanthropy, Gift of the Givers Foundation, Maersk South Africa, and the Department of Basic Education, is proud to announce the handover of the 100th Maths and Science Laboratory. This milestone marks the completion of a far-reaching initiative to equip 100 under-resourced primary schools across the country…

Oct 21, 2024 Buzz

Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) - Minister announces immediate restoration of online services

On 17 October, the Minister of Employment and Labour issued a media release, announcing that all of the Unemployment Insurance Fund’s (UIF) online services have been fully restored and are operational. At the end of August 2024, these online platforms were temporarily taken offline due to a legal battle between the UIF and the service providers of its online systems, resulting in a disruption of…

Oct 21, 2024 Buzz

Automechanika Johannesburg Exhibitor list is now live

Looking to grow your business in South Africa and across Africa? Then don’t miss your chance to sign up to exhibit or visit in November 2024. Register your FREE visitor pass Click to view exhibitors Get in touch: Tracy Gounden - Portfolio Director Tracy.Gounden@za.messefrankfurt.com +27 (0) 82 063 8157

Oct 18, 2024 Buzz

Chery South Africa awards R250,000 scholarship and 12-month internship to promising young scholar

Chery South Africa is pleased to announce Paul Melinda as the first recipient of the Chery Scholarship Challenge. Launched earlier this year, the initiative aims to celebrate South Africa’s youth by empowering brilliant young individuals. Candidates were challenged to develop a captivating advertising campaign for the Tiggo 4 Pro. Over 880 registrations and more than 50 entries were received.…

Oct 18, 2024 Buzz

GAC Motor South Africa announces its expansion in KwaZula-Natal

GAC Motor South Africa has announced its expansion in KwaZulu-Natal through a partnership with Bidvest McCarthy Gateway. The addition of GAC Motor to this dealership highlights the growth of the brand in South Africa and reinforces GAC Motor's status as a significant player in the country's automotive industry. This extensive network and broad range of activities underscore the group’s…

Oct 18, 2024 Buzz

FUCHS offers complete lubricant solutions for hybrid vehicles

As mobility continues to evolve, the market is slowly switching from combustion engine to electric power. Bridging between these two technologies, hybrid powered vehicles combine both combustion and electric power. “These are an increasingly popular choice of vehicle in South Africa as they offer dual benefits and provide a transition for consumers,” comments Hayley Arnesen, National Sales…

Oct 18, 2024 Buzz

CHARGE welcomes President Ramaphosa’s announcement of incentives for EVs

Zero Carbon Charge (CHARGE) welcomes President Ramaphosa’s announcement today that government is considering introducing new electric vehicle (EV) incentives during his address at SA Auto Week. He indicated these incentives could include tax rebates for consumers who currently face a 25% tax on EVs compared to the 18% on internal combustion vehicles, which would help accelerate the adoption of…

Oct 18, 2024 Buzz

Automotive Business Review August - October 2024

Oct 18, 2024 Buzz

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Oct 17, 2024 Buzz

Intelligence needed to solve rampant crime

South Africa’s crime statistics are just the tip of the iceberg, as failing police competency and capacity, coupled with generalised apathy guarantee that there are far more crimes taking place than merely reported. The first quarter of 2024/2025 saw more than 6000 murders, over 11 500 sexual offences, and over 9000 rapes. When one contemplates that these are likely conservative estimates, and…

Oct 17, 2024 Buzz

Diverse speaker line-up confirmed for CILTSA Regional Logistics and Transport Conference at Futuroad Expo

The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport’s (CILT) branches in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia are proud to announce a diverse line-up of presenters who will speak at its upcoming Regional Logistics and Transport Conference, scheduled for 19 to 21 November 2024, at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa. This landmark event, held in conjunction with the Futuroad Expo -…

Oct 17, 2024 Buzz

On your marks and get set - for this year’s Hollard Daredevil Run – don’t miss out

We're in the home stretch leading up to the eagerly awaited Hollard Daredevil Run and excitement is mounting. Thousands of men countrywide are gearing up to make a bold statement in support of prostate and testicular cancer awareness. The annual Hollard Daredevil Run, now in its fifteenth year, takes place on Friday, 1 November 2024. Runners from Johannesburg can once again join thousands of…

Oct 17, 2024 Buzz

Time is up - compulsory asbestos inspections

In terms of regulation 3 of the Asbestos Abatement Regulations of 2020, every employer is obliged to have the workplace inspected by a competent person or authorised inspection authority. Our clients report that inspectors from the Department of Labour and Employment are now requiring proof that the asbestos inspections have been carried out. Failure to produce an asbestos free certificate or the…

Oct 17, 2024 Buzz

TecTalk Aftermarket Podcast Launches Season 3, Featuring Industry Leaders from Automechanika Frankfurt

TecAlliance, the leading expert for data management and processes in the automotive aftermarket, is excited to launch the third season of its aftermarket podcast TecTalk. Recorded at Automechanika Frankfurt, Season 3 will feature a total of 10 episodes, with conversations from industry leaders and innovators discussing the latest trends in e-commerce, sustainability, logistics, digital…

Oct 17, 2024 Buzz

South Africa ranks 81st among 165 jurisdictions in Economic Freedom

South Africa ranks 81st out of 165 countries and territories included in the Economic Freedom of the World: 2024 Annual Report(EFW), released today by the Fraser Institute, Canada, in conjunction with its local partner, the Free Market Foundation (FMF). This data is based on the year 2022. Last year, based on data from 2021, South Africa ranked 85th. According to the FMF, South Africa’s modest…

Oct 17, 2024 Buzz

Manufacturing Indaba Announces the Women in Manufacturing Breakfast hosted by Absa

Manufacturing Indaba is proud to announce an exciting partnership with Absa to host the highly anticipated Women in Manufacturing Breakfast Forum. This event, set to take place during the annual Manufacturing Indaba, is a significant initiative aimed at empowering and supporting women in the manufacturing sector. Manufacturing has long been a cornerstone of economic growth and innovation, and…

Oct 17, 2024 Buzz

Urgent message to the Steel Industry: ITAC proposes severe anti-dumping duties

In light of the recently proposed import duties on certain hot-rolled and structural steel products from Asia, please see this urgent video message by NEASA Chief Executive, Gerhard Papenfus: For further information or to participate, please send an email to rona@neasa.co.za For more information NEASA Media Department media@neasa.co.za

Oct 16, 2024 Buzz

JLR strengthens executive leadership team with appointments for next phase of its Reimagine transformation

As the pace of change in automotive gathers speed, JLR is pleased to announce new appointments to its Executive Leadership Team to support the next phase of its development and transformation. With effect from 21 October 2024, Steve Marsh is appointed Executive Director, Vehicle Programmes, reporting to JLR Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Adrian Mardell. Marsh is a highly regarded and experienced…

Oct 16, 2024 Buzz

Domestic Workers: Registration with the Compensation Fund

All employers of domestic workers must register with the Compensation Fund, regardless of how many hours they work a month. The term “domestic worker” includes a worker, a gardener, a driver of a vehicle, and a caretaker in a private household. Although many domestic workers may not have a written contract of employment, they remain formal employees and their employers must adhere to the relevant…

Oct 16, 2024 Buzz

Standox introduces new special effect red mixing tint

As one of the primary colours, red is often linked to fire, power and love. Unsurprisingly, it is also one of the most popular chromatic car colours on new cars according to Axalta’s 70th Global Automotive Color Popularity Report. To help refinishers repair these OEM colours right the first time, Standox has launched Basecoat Hybrid Special Effect Mix 107 Volcano Red. This highly chromatic mixing…

Oct 16, 2024 Buzz

Young robotics team takes world title

In an inspiring demonstration of innovation and teamwork, Texpand, a South African youth robotics team, recently made history by winning the 2024 FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) World Championships. The team’s success was assisted in part by high-tech polymer components donated by polymer supplier, igus, whose contribution played a valuable role in enabling the team to achieve world-class performance.…

Oct 16, 2024 Buzz

South African Auto Market Adapts to Economic Challenges with Strong Used Vehicle Demand and Rising EV Interest

TransUnion's latest Vehicle Pricing Index (VPI) for Q2 2024, which integrates alternative data and several market-leading sources, shows a 6% decline in new vehicle sales and a 6.1% drop in total vehicles financed from the previous quarter. Despite this, the market is showing signs of resilience, with a slight increase in consumer confidence and positive trends in generational shifts toward…

Oct 16, 2024 Buzz

New show dates announced to accommodate growth of Automechanika Kuala Lumpur 2025

Automechanika Kuala Lumpur 2025 will move to 15 to 17 May 2025, instead of the original timeslot (8 to 10 May 2025) to accommodate the venue’s needs. The change will ensure the show can cater to the rising demand of participation as the fair expands from Halls 1 to 5, and into Hall 6 of the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. To capitalise on the 2nd highest car ownership rate in Asia[1], the fair is…

Oct 16, 2024 Buzz

Volkswagen Environmental Engineer named runner-up in national energy competition

Volkswagen Group Africa’s Reabetsoe Kgoedi was named runner-up in this year’s Energy Professional of the Year Awards hosted by the Southern African Energy Efficiency Confederation (SAEEC) in Johannesburg. The award is presented annually to an individual who has made outstanding contributions to the energy profession and to the candidate’s community in various areas of society. Kgoedi, an…

Oct 16, 2024 Buzz

Creating a job shouldn’t cost R365 000 (but it does in SA)

The Minister of Employment and Labour, Nomakhosazana Meth, has established that under the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) and Labour Activation Programme (LAP), a job costs R365,000 to be created in this country. LAP was established in April 2024 to train entrepreneurs and create jobs, while the UIF is a policy that extracts money from employees and employers, with the plan of paying out a…

Oct 16, 2024 Buzz

BFGoodrich Tyres Launches All-Terrain T/A KO3 Tyre in South Africa

BFGoodrich has officially launched the highly anticipated All-Terrain T/A KO3 tyre in South Africa, marking a new milestone in off-road performance technology. Held at the Lion and Safari Park in Johannesburg, the event offered media representatives and special guests an exclusive first look at the tyre’s advanced features, built to meet the unique demands of off-road driving. Building on the…

Oct 16, 2024 Buzz

Absa Drives the Future of Mobility as Anchor Sponsor of South African Autoweek 2024

Absa, a leading African financial services group, is proud to announce its role as the anchor sponsor of South African Autoweek (SAAW) 2024, to be held from 15 to 18 October at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. Organised by the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (NAAMSA), this prestigious event coincides with the 100th anniversary of South Africa's…

Oct 16, 2024 Buzz

Workplace Bullies: What to do

Standing up to workplace bullies & The (real) cost of workplace bullying By Anja van Beek, Talent Strategist, Leadership & HR Expert and Executive Coach Bullying in the workplace is a reality that many employees face but few talk about openly, and this is a huge problem. Imagine a manager who consistently withholds information that is critical for effective performance, or a colleague who spreads…

Oct 15, 2024 Buzz

Paths to long-term sustainability in the automotive industry at Automechanika Shanghai 2024

The automotive industry is transitioning towards more sustainable mobility solutions that reduce carbon footprints and enhance environmental protection. With sustainability at its core, the theme of Automechanika Shanghai 2024 – innovate, transform: driving a sustainable future – will focus exhibits, conferences and onsite activities on promoting a greener automotive industry. In this regard, the…

Oct 15, 2024 Buzz

Placing the spotlight on safety

As South Africa marks Transport Month this October, road safety remains a paramount concern, particularly as the latest annual crash statistics reveal the ongoing dangers on our roads. Statistics from the Road Traffic Management System show that for the period January 2023 – December 2023 the vehicle population increased by 1.30% from 12 964 430 in 2022 to 13 133 035 in 2023. Even though the…

Oct 15, 2024 Buzz

Driving India’s Infrastructure Revolution: 12th edition of TrafficInfratech Expo 2024 gears up to present next-gen solutions for traffic, road and parking management

With rapid urbanization and industrial developments growing persistently in India, the demands for effectively managing its transportation and infrastructure networks are intensifying. To address the challenges with advanced solutions, the 12th edition of TrafficInfratech Expo with concurrent shows Road Infratech Expo and Parking Infratech Expo will be held at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, with 120…

Oct 15, 2024 Buzz

naamsa announces the 2024 finalists of the Annual Accelerator Awards powered by WesBank

The Automotive Business Council has unveiled the finalists for the naamsa Accelerator Awards, powered by WesBank. This competition stands as South Africa's premier, objective, and fact-based recognition within the automotive sector. These awards will honour excellence in the automotive industry, highlighting the remarkable achievements of individuals and organisations that have pushed boundaries,…

Oct 15, 2024 Buzz

Lavela Secondary School gets spanking new library, courtesy of Hyundai

Hyundai Automotive South Africa has handed over a brand new library and learning centre to Lavela Secondary School in Soweto – the 22nd sponsorship in its kind and part of the company’s ongoing corporate social investment programme in collaboration with Hyundai Motor Company in Korea and the DP World Motus Community Trust. About 800 learners of Lavela Secondary School were present at the event…

Oct 15, 2024 Buzz

ISUZU Motors South Africa Wins Prestigious Exporter of the Year Award

ISUZU MOTORS South Africa (ISUZU) is proud to announce its recognition as the Overall Exporter of the Year at the 2024 Exporters Eastern Cape Gala Banquet held on Friday, 11 October 2024 in Gqeberha. This award highlights ISUZU’s unwavering commitment to excellence, sustainability, and growth agenda in South Africa and the African continent. Since its establishment in 2018, ISUZU has been a…

Oct 15, 2024 Buzz

NAACAM SHOW 2025, in Partnership with the AIDC Eastern Cape

The National Association of Automotive Component and Allied Manufacturers (NAACAM) has announced the fourth iteration of the NAACAM Show to take place in Gqeberha in the third quarter of 2025 in partnership with the Automotive Industry Development Centre Eastern Cape (AIDC-EC). As a member-driven organisation, NAACAM is recognised as the voice of the South African automotive component industry…

Oct 15, 2024 Buzz

Jaguar #GiveHerACrown 2024 South African Showcase

#GIVEHERACROWN 2024 SOUTH AFRICAN SHOWCASE SPOTLIGHTS DESIGNERS CELEBRATING WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT THROUGH THE ARTS After debuting their #GiveHerACrown collection at New York Fashion Week, five visionary South African designers took centre stage once again at the 2024 #GiveHerACrown South African Showcase. Held at the Jaguar Land Rover Experience Centre, the event was a vibrant celebration of…

Oct 15, 2024 Buzz

bpSA embraces change as it celebrates its 100th year in South Africa

bp Southern Africa (bpSA) celebrated its 100th year of doing business in South Africa on Wednesday, 9 October, with an in-depth dialogue on energy industry trends, followed by a gala dinner to celebrate the contributions of various stakeholders to the company’s success. The dialogue was anchored on the theme of “Reimagining Energy for the Future” where industry leaders explored some of the themes…

Oct 14, 2024 Buzz

Volkswagen Group Africa honoured with environmental award for 11th time

For an impressive 11th time, Volkswagen Group Africa has been honoured with the SJM Flex Environmental award at the 30th annual Exporters Eastern Cape awards held on Friday 11 October. The SJM Flex Environmental award, which is given to an ISO 14001-accredited exporter who pursues excellence in environmental management, went to VWGA for the 11th time. This is also the fifth consecutive year that…

Oct 14, 2024 Buzz

One week to go: Manufacturing Indaba 2024 – the countdown begins!

The countdown has begun! With just one week remaining, the Manufacturing Indaba 2024 is set to open its doors to industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders from across the African continent and beyond. Taking place from 22 – 23 October 2024 at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg, this year’s event promises to deliver unparalleled insights into the future of African manufacturing.…

Oct 14, 2024 Buzz

SAPICS announces “Innovation in Motion” Theme for 2025 conference

The annual SAPICS Conference, Africa’s leading event for the supply chain profession, will be held from 8 to 11 June 2025 in Cape Town under the theme “Innovation in Motion”, supply chain industry body SAPICS has announced. Now in its 47th year, the SAPICS Conference enables supply chain managers to learn, network and share knowledge, which is increasingly important for this vital profession in…

Oct 14, 2024 Buzz

Debunking e-waste myths as we plot South Africa’s path to a circular economy

By Colin Williamson E-waste is currently the fastest growing global waste stream. Five times more e-waste is produced than is formally recycled — and the problem is getting worse every year. Between 2010 and 2022, the amount of e-waste generated per year almost doubled from 34 million tonnes to 62 million tonnes. Consider how many devices we’ve all used personally and professionally in this time,…

Oct 14, 2024 Buzz

ISUZU brings environmental conservation to life through ‘Zandi’s Song’ initiative

In an ongoing effort to contribute to a sustainable future, ISUZU Motors South Africa has launched an initiative aimed at fostering environmental awareness among primary school learners in the Western and Eastern Cape. The initiative carried out in collaboration with South African conservationist, social activist, and filmmaker Zandile Ndhlovu, will benefit thousands of young minds through her…

Oct 14, 2024 Buzz

Volkswagen’s Head of Marketing wins prestigious Marketing Leadership and Innovation Award at the 2024 Loeries

Bridget Harpur, Head of Marketing for the Volkswagen Passenger Cars Brands, has been honoured with the coveted Marketing Leadership and Innovation Award at the Loeries held last night. This recognition marks another significant milestone in Harpur’s illustrious career and demonstrates her exceptional contributions to the Volkswagen brand and marketing in South Africa. Bridget Harpur, a seasoned…

Oct 14, 2024 Buzz

Renault Group takes a stand alongside the United Nations’ Special Envoy for Road Safety to make mobility safer

Renault Group and the Secretariat of the UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Road Safety announce today a partnership to draw attention to road safety around the world, provide training and deploy technological breakthroughs to save lives. By supporting the UN’s endeavour, Renault Group is reasserting its determination to work towards ever safer and more accessible mobility benefiting…

Oct 14, 2024 Buzz

Dekra Industrial scores 10 out of 10 for safety with 10th consecutive NOSCAR Award

Dekra Industrial is proud to announce its 10th consecutive NOSCAR Award, reflecting the company’s dedicated and consistent commitment to safety excellence. The NOSCAR award is only conferred after an extremely rigorous verification audit. The annual NOSA audit took place against the requirements of the CMB150 protocol. Scores obtained need to be above 95%, with a disabling accident frequency rate…

Oct 14, 2024 Buzz

Stellantis Leverages Its Management Organisation with Changes to Drive Performance Under the Leadership of Carlos Tavares

To drive simplification and enhance organisational performance in a turbulent global environment, Stellantis today announced targeted management changes, effective immediately, under the leadership of CEO Carlos Tavares to redouble the Company’s focus on its key business priorities and confront head-on the global challenges facing the industry. Antonio Filosa is appointed North America Chief…

Oct 14, 2024 Buzz

ETM Award 2024: Continental Tops Readers’ Poll in the Commercial Vehicle Tyres Category

Continental has won the ETM Award 2024 "Best of New Transportation" in the renowned readers’ survey conducted by German publisher ETM among commercial vehicle professionals. In the "Tyres" category, readers of trade magazines "trans aktuell" and "Fernfahrer" and users of "eurotransport.de" handed the most votes to Continental’s product range. "This award provides a ringing endorsement both of the…

Oct 14, 2024 Buzz

Private property is inseparable from other “basic” freedoms

Centre-left social democrats walk an unsound, uneasy path of pretending to favour “liberty” while also favouring redistributionary and intensely regulatory initiatives on behalf of the state elites. They seek to obscure the foundational importance that private property rights represent to holistic human freedom. Last week, the African Global Dialogue was set to have an international event at the…

Oct 14, 2024 Buzz

Don’t Miss the Powertrain Expo at AAPEX 2024!

AAPEX Just Got Bigger — and Better For the first time ever, the Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association (ATRA) Powertrain Expo will take place at AAPEX 2024! This is your chance to be part of the largest global gathering of transmission repair specialists. Experience a showcase of the latest innovations, expert insights, and cutting-edge technology in the powertrain and automotive sectors.…

Oct 11, 2024 Buzz

Hyundai breaks into top 30 global brand list

Hyundai Motor Company’s brand valuation has reached $23 billion (about R405,5 billion), ranking 30th among Interbrand’s Best Global Brands in 2024. This marks a 63% increase in brand value over five years, and a rise in global rankings for the second consecutive year. During this time, the brand moved up six spots from 36th to 30th and marked its 14th consecutive year of increasing brand…

Oct 11, 2024 Buzz

Register to visit the Manufacturing Indaba Expo

Join Africa’s premier manufacturing event and explore the latest innovations, technologies, and trends driving the industry forward. The Manufacturing Indaba Expo is your gateway to discovering new opportunities, networking with industry leaders, and staying ahead in the competitive manufacturing landscape. Join us at the Manufacturing Indaba Expo and: Learn more: manufacturingindaba.co.za​ /…

Oct 11, 2024 Buzz

Critical action needed to safeguard aviation kerosene supply in South Africa

The supply of aviation kerosene is facing a severe threat due to regulatory delays in the licensing of import storage facilities. Without immediate intervention, a fuel shortage could disrupt operations at O.R. Tambo International Airport and other airports, which include King Shaka International Airport. The industry’s concerns arise from the fact that under the Customs and Excise Act, 91 of…

Oct 11, 2024 Buzz

GWM Sees Record-setting Sales Overseas in the First Nine Months of 2024

With a focus on long-term goals and a firm commitment to its global ecosystem strategy, Great Wall Motor (GWM) has consistently achieved remarkable success in overseas markets. In the first nine months of 2024, GWM’s overseas sales reached 324,200 units, a 53.16% year-on-year increase, surpassing the full-year overseas sales of 2023 and marking the company’s entry into a new phase of high-quality…

Oct 11, 2024 Buzz

Enviro Automotive Delivers First DFSK EV Panel Vans to Barberton Mines

Barberton Mines, globally recognised for its environmentally friendly gold extraction process using naturally occurring microorganisms known as the Biox® technology, as well as its 8.75 MW solar plant at its Fairview operation, has received its first battery-electric DFSK EC35 panel vans. These best-selling electric panel vans from China are commended for their efficient energy use, performance…

Oct 11, 2024 Buzz

Economic freedom is foundation of all other freedoms

There is a common misconception that SA, both during apartheid and today, has been a capitalist country. This is far from the truth. In fact, both the apartheid-era policies and today’s socialist-leaning government interventions have eroded economic freedom, leaving the country both economically and politically unfree. As the late great African American economist Walter E Williams argued in his…

Oct 10, 2024 Buzz

Explore Diverse Product Categories at Automechanika Johannesburg 2024

Automechanika Johannesburg 2024 is around the corner, and it's gearing up to be a must-attend event for everyone in the automotive aftermarket and service industry. With an extensive array of product categories to explore, you'll have the opportunity to discover the latest trends, innovations, and solutions that are shaping the future of the automotive landscape. Read More Here

Oct 10, 2024 Buzz

COSATU: National protest action fails completely!

What is the measure of success? Following Monday’s protest action, Cosatu’s General-Secretary Solly Phetoe stated, “from all the nine provinces, we were successful, we have been receiving some reports. We think that our action was successful, even though not all workers came out, but we can say it was a successful action.” However, the video footage and imagery of the protest action in the media,…

Oct 10, 2024 Buzz

Mahindra Marks 20 Years of Excellence in South Africa with the Launch of the XUV 3XO

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd, a global leader in the automotive industry, today marks twenty years of success, innovation and growth in the South African automotive industry. This milestone was celebrated with a drive from Gauteng, where Mahindra has its headquarters, to Sun City in the Northwest Province. The drive, and the evening’s celebration event highlighted Mahindra’s legacy and its ambitious…

Oct 10, 2024 Buzz

Old Mutual Insure champions road safety in 2025 car of the year competition

For the third year in a row, leading short-term insurer Old Mutual Insure will be the headline sponsor of South Africa's most prestigious motoring competition, the Car of the Year (COTY) for 2025, in partnership with the South African Guild of Mobility Journalists (SAGMJ). This year the sponsorship will see even more of a focus on road safety in the run-up to the festive season compared to…

Oct 10, 2024 Buzz

Citroën C3 and DS3 manufactured between 2009 and 2019 require urgent airbag replacement

Citroën C3 and DS3 models manufactured between 2009 and 2019 and equipped with Takata airbags urgently need these airbags replaced. Customers are urged to stop driving these vehicles immediately and contact their preferred dealership as soon as possible to schedule the free replacement. The service takes less than 2 hours to be performed. Chemical components of Takata airbags can deteriorate over…

Oct 10, 2024 Buzz

AA appoints Bobby Ramagwede as new CEO

The Automobile Association (AA) has appointed Bobby Ramagwede as its new Chief Executive Officer with effect from 1 October 2024. Ramagwede brings to the position extensive professional experience at CEO and Board level in a career spanning almost two decades. An MBA graduate from the University of Pretoria’s Gordon Institute of Business, Ramagwede previously served as the CEO of Europ Assistance…

Oct 10, 2024 Buzz

WesBank signs new alliance with GAC Motor South Africa

South Africa’s leading vehicle and asset finance provider, WesBank, proudly announces the formation of a strategic alliance with GAC Motor South Africa as part of the newly launched vehicle importer’s go-to-market strategy. At the heart of the partnership is the formation of GAC Motor Finance, a product of WesBank, which continues the bank’s pioneering tradition of being the first lender to…

Oct 10, 2024 Buzz

BEE’s betrayal: Corruption and the erosion of rule of law

Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) was introduced with the goal of uplifting people who were disadvantaged and left impoverished by apartheid. However, despite these good intentions, BEE has caused significant unintended consequences. Instead of creating real empowerment, BEE has undermined the rule of law and opened the door to corruption, cronyism, and inefficiency. The result is that…

Oct 10, 2024 Buzz

What dynamics will define the automotive industry?

Automechanika Shanghai, 2 - 5 December 2024 For more information, please contact:auto@hongkong.messefrankfurt.com

Oct 08, 2024 Buzz

SA AUTO WEEK 2024| A rally by the Automotive Eco-System to celebrate a Century of Progress, while ushering in a Vision for Tomorrow

October is South Africa’s Transport Month commemorated annually through Africa’s premier automotive event, the SA Auto Week. The 2024 version will transform the vibrant City of Cape Town into a hub of heritage, innovation, and thought leadership. This landmark event promises to unfold spectacularly as we commemorate 100 years of passion, resilience, and ingenuity. “From 15-18 October 2024, the…

Oct 08, 2024 Buzz

White-Collar Crime on the Rise

What your business needs to know about commercial crime risk and insurance In an increasingly sophisticated and digitised business environment, more organisations are at risk of suffering losses due to criminal activity. Traditional threats such as robbery and physical theft have been overtaken by white-collar crime events involving internal actors and third parties. In today’s world, the risks…

Oct 08, 2024 Buzz

Dunlop Tyres SA Partners with the Road Freight SME Summit to Drive Growth and Sustainability

Dunlop Tyres SA is proud to announce its strategic partnership with the 2nd Annual Road Freight SME Summit, reaffirming its commitment to empowering local businesses. The Summit, scheduled for October 10-11, 2024, at The Focus Room, Johannesburg, brings together key stakeholders in South Africa's transportation sector to foster growth, innovation, and collaboration among small and medium-sized…

Oct 08, 2024 Buzz

BYD South Africa (Pty) Ltd Launches the Highly Anticipated SEAL 7, Reinforcing Commitment to Sustainable Mobility

BYD South Africa, a leading player in the electric vehicle (EV) market, proudly hosted an exclusive Ride and Drive event on October 2-3, 2024, at Pont de Val, Parys. The event showcased the latest addition to its portfolio, the BYD SEAL 7, alongside the ATTO 3 and DOLPHIN models. Attendees, comprising South African influencers and journalists, experienced the exceptional performance and features…

Oct 08, 2024 Buzz

With the international premiere of the Junior IBRIDA, Alfa Romeo returns to the Mondial de l'Auto in Paris. The exclusive stand celebrates the essence of Made in Italy

Alfa Romeo returns to the Mondial de l'Auto in Paris with its full line-up and three high-profile previews, exuding the typical charm of a brand with over a century of history that never ceases to amaze. At the show, the brand will be setting up a large, spectacular stand to take visitors on an immersive journey into the heart of Made in Italy, celebrating craftsmanship excellence and its…

Oct 08, 2024 Buzz

4th Intra African Trade Fair (IATF2025) from September 4 - 10, 2025, in Algiers, Algeria

The Africa Automotive Show, supported by the African Association of Automotive Manufacturers (AAAM) as part of the 4th Intra African Trade Fair (IATF2025) from September 4 - 10, 2025, in Algiers, Algeria, is the continent’s premier automotive economic development initiative. Its primary and focussed objective is the development of a pan-African (regional) Automotive value-chain in which African…

Oct 07, 2024 Buzz

WesBank joins naamsa in celebrating 100 years of automotive industry in South Africa at SA Auto Week 2024

WesBank is proud to announce its continued sponsorship of SA Auto Week for the third consecutive year, reinforcing its commitment to South Africa’s automotive industry. This year’s event, organised by naamsa | The Automotive Business Council and scheduled to take place from 15 to 18 October at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), coincides with the 100-year celebration of South…

Oct 07, 2024 Buzz

Discover what Major Automotive Customers are Looking for in Local Suppliers

Automotive cluster opens applications for new SMME market access initiative Since the beginning of this year, 759 businesses in South Africa have closed their doors, underscoring the harsh reality that the path for many small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) is paved with challenges. Kyle Ballard, a representative from the East Cape Automotive Industry Forum (ECAIF), believes that while…

Oct 07, 2024 Buzz

Metair diversifies its aftermarket reach through AutoZone acquisition

Metair Investments Ltd (“Metair” or “the Group”), a leading international manufacturer, distributor and retailer of automotive components and energy storage solutions, today announced that it has entered into a sale of shares and facility agreement to acquire the entire issued share capital of AutoZone Holdings Proprietary Limited (“AutoZone”). Paul O’Flaherty, CEO of Metair comments: “This…

Oct 04, 2024 Buzz

WesBank Movers and Mentors introduces learners to the world of work

WesBank hosted its inaugural Movers and Mentors event, an initiative aimed at inducting learners into the corporate world by educating them on the various career options available in the financial sector. Sixty learners from Riverlea Secondary School in Johannesburg South had the unique opportunity to visit WesBank’s head office in Fairland, Johannesburg where they enjoyed an up-close engagement…

Oct 04, 2024 Buzz

Volkswagen partners with Lucas Radebe to drive youth empowerment

Volkswagen has partnered with the former South African national soccer captain, Lucas Radebe to drive social change and empower the youth of South Africa. Lucas Radebe, a renowned public figure and national soccer legend, joins Volkswagen as a brand ambassador of the VW Train 4 Life programme. The programme aims to empower young girls through football and life skills education. As part of his…

Oct 04, 2024 Buzz

NEASA Youth Development Program: Resources available!

NEASA Youth can assist you with the following junior resources: Click here if you are interested in hosting a student We look forward to partnering with you towards the development of South Africa’s youth. NEASA Youth is ready to assist you with any queries. Contact 012 332 5350 or send an e-mail to adele@neasa.co.za

Oct 04, 2024 Buzz

JETOUR Announces strategic partnership with Cheetah Conservation Fund

Protecting Endangered Cheetahs Together Cheetahs, the world's fastest land animals, are beloved worldwide yet only a few people are aware that their population is rapidly declining, with less than 7,500 cheetahs remaining. 20 September 2024 saw JETOUR officially announce its strategic partnership with the Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF) at their official South African launch in Sandton. JETOUR…

Oct 03, 2024 Buzz

Hyundai Motor Company celebrates global production of 100 million vehicles

Hyundai Motor Company celebrated a significant milestone on 30 September, marking 100 million units of global cumulative production. This achievement was accomplished in just 57 years since the company’s foundation, making it one of the fastest in the global automotive industry. In honor of this milestone, Hyundai Motor held a ceremony at its Ulsan Plant in South Korea, and as a token of…

Oct 03, 2024 Buzz

Toyota tops the sales charts in September

Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) has reported a total of 10 890 vehicles sold in the last month of the third quarter. Over the past three quarters of 2024, TSAM has sold a total of 93 244 units year to date – including Hino- and Lexus-branded models. TSAM is also proud to be category leader in both passenger and Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) segments. Overall bestseller, Hilux, registered a…

Oct 03, 2024 Buzz

COSATU Protest action: An exercise in irony

by Gerhard Papenfus COSATU has given notice of its plans to embark on a nationwide protest action on 7 October 2024. In its futile annual tick-box exercise, COSATU’s primary demands are, once again, “the halting of the escalating retrenchment rate, addressing weakened economic growth and combating living costs”. Ironically, COSATU wants to achieve this by calling on South Africans to either join…

Oct 02, 2024 Buzz

Range Rover Sport forms a powerful on-screen partnership with Theo James

Range Rover conceptualises the notion of unmistakable Britishness in its latest campaign for the new Range Rover Sport, featuring Emmy Award-nominated actor and producer Theo James alongside a cast of pedigree pets and thoroughbreds, set within the grounds of a quintessentially British manor house. Range Rover Sport – the most dynamic vehicle in the Range Rover line-up – displays its sporting…

Oct 02, 2024 Buzz

Green shoots emerging in South Africa’s new vehicle market

"Vehicle sales in South Africa continued their downward trend in September, with total sales of 44,081 units, slightly down from the same period last year. However, there was a modest increase in passenger car sales, offering hope that the market may be slowly turning," commented Brandon Cohen, National Chairperson of the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA), after studying last month’s…

Oct 02, 2024 Buzz

Positive sentiment creeping into new vehicle market

While the country welcomed the cut in interest rates during September, it wasn’t enough to stimulate new vehicle sales during the month. According to data released by naamsa | the Automotive Business Council, the South African new vehicle market declined 4,1% year-on-year to 44,081 units. The South African Reserve Bank made the much-anticipated decision to cut interest rates by 0,25% during…

Oct 02, 2024 Buzz

A question of enforceability

The enforceability of the Competition Commission’s Guidelines for Competition in the South African Automotive Aftermarket has created some ongoing confusion. Many in the industry mistakenly view the Guidelines as non-binding suggestions. However, while the Guidelines are not enforceable in their own right, they play a critical role in interpreting the Competition Act and ensuring compliance. Kate…

Oct 02, 2024 Buzz

Engen and DEET Empower People with Disabilities Through Driver Training and Job Readiness Programmes

Engen has once again partnered with the Disability Economic Empowerment Trust (DEET) to launch a driver training and job readiness programme to empower 200 people with disabilities across five provinces. This initiative promotes economic inclusion by equipping participants with essential driving skills and workplace competencies, ensuring that they are prepared to enter the job market. Launched…

Oct 02, 2024 Buzz

COIDA: compensation fund assistance for employers

NEASA brings relief to employers by ensuring that employers are registered, categorised correctly and do not overpay on their Compensation Fund contributions, or where they have overpaid in the past, to ensure recovery of such overpayments and corrections going forward. NEASA urges employers to utilise these expert services, to ease the administrative and financial headaches of dealing with the…

Oct 02, 2024 Buzz

Why some insurance companies charge higher premiums on the colour of your car

There’s a difference between what colours mean for a sale and what they mean for insurance. Insurance myths go as far back as the personification each colour inherited over time. For example, red cars were thought to represent aggressive driving and were (supposedly) more susceptible to traffic fines—which couldn’t be further from the truth. Yes, the colour of your car will have an influence on…

Oct 02, 2024 Buzz

SA's automotive sector can learn from Thailand production model

The National Association of Automotive Component and Allied Manufacturers (NAACAM) in partnership with the Toyota Wessels Institute of Manufacturing Studies (TWIMS) held a breakfast seminar today for NAACAM members and key stakeholders from the public and private sector. The keynote presentation was delivered by global academic expert Professor Kriengkrai Techakanont from the Thammasat University…

Oct 01, 2024 Buzz

naamsa releases October 2024 new vehicle sales as we gear-up for the SA Auto Week 2024 in Cape Town

Despite the lingering effects of a high inflationary environment, South Africa's automotive industry remains optimistic that the tide for higher new vehicle sales will turn and show some signs of recovery as we move closer to year end. naamsa reaffirmed that at the beginning of 2024 “we stated that we anticipate a year of two halves, with a taxing first six months of the year and improved…

Oct 01, 2024 Buzz

Announcing the Manufacturing Indaba Top 50

Celebrating Africa’s Leading CEOs in Manufacturing The Manufacturing Indaba 2024 is proud to introduce the Manufacturing Indaba Top 50, a prestigious recognition of Africa’s most influential and dynamic CEOs in the manufacturing sector. This initiative is aimed at celebrating leadership excellence, innovation, and transformative impact in the industry across the continent. As manufacturing…

Oct 01, 2024 Buzz

The state is to blame for SA’s unemployment

The unemployment figures always encourage talk of how the government “must do something”. Yet understanding the nature of government and the state is essential in showcasing the folly of what most understand as the solution to the unemployment crisis we face. SA sits with one of the highest rates of unemployment in the world; an official unemployment rate of 34.6% and the expanded definition of…

Oct 01, 2024 Buzz

How to Prepare for BBBEE Verification

By Candice Parker Don’t Underestimate Your BBBEE Verification Preparations Preparing for a Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) verification can be a complex process, and if not done correctly, can result in a poor scorecard. The risk of not ensuring you prepare adequately for your verification could mean thousands of rands lost in initiatives that do not yield any favourable results.…

Oct 01, 2024 Buzz

Our Ford Stories: Timeless Classics

We are pleased to share the latest video from Ford SA's 'Our Ford Stories' video series, coinciding with Ford South Africa's Centenary Celebrations. The latest Ford Stories video highlights iconic nameplates in South Africa through the ages and the deep passion that owners have for the Ford brand. From the stately elegance of the Ford Fairlane, which once graced the streets with effortless…

Oct 01, 2024 Buzz

Engen’s new TVC starring Bok icons has South Africans smiling

Engen, South Africa’s biggest petroleum brand and the Official Fuel Supplier of the Springboks, proudly unveiled its latest TV commercial, featuring four celebrated rugby legends: Siya Kolisi, Eben Etzebeth, Cheslin Kolbe, and Tendai Mtawarira on Saturday. The light-hearted 60-second ad has since captured hearts of the nation, creating a buzz across social media and beyond with its unexpected…

Oct 01, 2024 Buzz

Another Fuel Price Decrease welcomed

Fifth consecutive decrease signals relief for both business and consumers The South African Petroleum Retailers Association (SAPRA), a proud member of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), is pleased to announce that South African consumers and businesses will benefit from yet another decrease in fuel prices. The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy has confirmed a significant…

Sep 30, 2024 Buzz

Stellantis Updates 2024 Financial Guidance

Stellantis N.V. has revised its 2024 financial guidance, reflecting decisions to significantly enlarge remediation actions on North American performance issues, as well as deterioration in global industry dynamics. The Company has accelerated its planned normalization of inventory levels in the U.S., targeting no more than 330,000 units of dealer inventory by year-end 2024, from a prior timing…

Sep 30, 2024 Buzz

Economy-crushing policies: SA’s three swords of Damocles

Three policies, all in various forms of implementation, threaten the livelihoods of all South Africans, faltering our growth and development, and ensuring that unemployment, crime and corruption flourish. If the government of national unity (GNU) is to usher in a brighter future for this country, it must do all it can to end the oncoming threat of Expropriation Without Compensation (EWC), stop…

Sep 30, 2024 Buzz

Dunlop Wins Respected Ask Afrika Orange Index® Award, Reinforcing Commitment to Customer Excellence

Dunlop Tyres South Africa celebrates being named the Industry winner of the Vehicle Consumables Category in the respected 2024/25 Ask Afrika Orange Index®. This special award is a testament to Dunlop's dedication to delivering outstanding customer service and customer experiences. The Ask Afrika Orange Index®, a rigorous independent benchmark study, has been evaluating South Africans'…

Sep 27, 2024 Buzz

Kia presents prize vehicles to 2024 Two Oceans Marathon ultra-marathon winners Onalenna Khonkobe and Gerda Steyn

Kia South Africa this week celebrates the achievements of Onalenna Khonkobe and Gerda Steyn, the respective male and female winners of this year’s Two Oceans ultra-marathon, as they receive the Kia vehicles they will be driving for the next 12 months. The prizes were announced during this year’s Two Oceans Marathon, which took place in April, with the prize presentations commencing this month…

Sep 27, 2024 Buzz

Potential drastic increase in import duties

The South African steel industry is already burdened by high steel prices, among others as a result of existing import duties aimed at protecting AMSA. The following news may therefore come as a shock to the steel downstream: Notice has just been received of further potential (anti-dumping) duties of between 15 to 24% in respect of imports from Japan, 21 to 30% from Taiwan, and 72% from China.…

Sep 27, 2024 Buzz

New SUV brand Jetour Joins Forces with Good Things Guy to Find South Africa’s Next Big Influencers

Jetour, the new SUV brand launched in South Africa last week, has partnered with Good Things Guy, Brent Lindeque, to find three inspiring South African influencers to become the faces of their brand, celebrating creativity, adventure, and innovation. Jetour, which is one of the fastest growing SUV brands in China, is already making waves with its entry into the local market, and is looking for…

Sep 27, 2024 Buzz

The date is set for the Big, Brave and Ballsy 2024 Hollard Daredevil Run

Registrations now open to run cancer outta your hood It’s an event known by its distinctive purple speedos and bold mission to raise awareness about male cancers. The annual Hollard Daredevil Run will once again be bringing vital awareness back to hoods and companies across the country when it takes place this year on Friday, 1 November 2024. What started fifteen years ago with a few brave souls…

Sep 27, 2024 Buzz

Stellantis Recognizes 68 Global and Regional Suppliers at Supplier of the Year Event

Stellantis recognized 68 global and regional suppliers for their extraordinary commitment, quality and operational excellence in 2023. 21 suppliers were recognized as the top performers in their respective categories and presented the “Supplier of the Year” award. The fourth annual event, held September 24 at the historic Lingotto Conference Center in Turin, Italy, was attended by over 200…

Sep 27, 2024 Buzz

CILTSA Announces Stellar Speaker Line-up for Women's Empowerment Conference

The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport: South Africa (CILTSA) is delighted to unveil an impressive roster of speakers for its upcoming Women in Logistics, Transport and Supply Chain Empowerment Conference, which takes place on 25 October 2024 at the Birchwood Hotel and Conference Centre in Boksburg, Johannesburg. The event promises to deliver invaluable insights and inspiration under…

Sep 27, 2024 Buzz

Smarter Mobility Africa Summit 2024 Welcomes Influential Speakers and Engages Attendees with Coffee Mixer

The highly anticipated Smarter Mobility Africa Summit 2024 on the 3rd of October has kicked off with an exciting lineup of thought leaders, alongside engaging networking events like the Coffee Mixer, designed to spark dialogue and collaboration across mobility sectors. This year’s theme, "The Truth Behind the Title," sets the tone for critical discussions around transparency, leadership, and…

Sep 27, 2024 Buzz

Oil analysis is critical to monitor diesel engine combustion efficiency

Diesel engines are the driving force powering many modern transportation and industry applications. Efficient engine function relies heavily on the combustion process that converts fuel into mechanical energy. High-quality combustion is crucial for optimal engine performance and overall reliability, comments Craig FitzGerald from ISO-Reliability Partners. The company is an own emblem manufacturer…

Sep 27, 2024 Buzz

Renault Group to sell to Nissan up to 195,473,600 Nissan shares representing approximately 5.0% of Nissan capital

After two sales of Nissan shares on December 13, 2023, and on March 28, 2024, Renault Group announces a third transaction with the intention to sell to Nissan up to 195,473,600 Nissan shares, representing approximately 5.0% of Nissan capital. This sale will be implemented as part of the share buyback program announced by Nissan on September 26, 2024, and that will be executed on September 27,…

Sep 27, 2024 Buzz

Privatisation: The key to fixing SA’s failing municipalities

Municipalities and their functions reflect the reality of governance in South Africa. Grand legislation and regulations formulated and passed by parliament and implemented by ministries have a theoretical effect on the people of this country, but it is the function of municipalities that genuinely affect the day-to-day lives of the South African people. Unfortunately, the reality for many South…

Sep 27, 2024 Buzz

Metair progresses strategic turnaround during H1 2024

Group revenue increased 4% to R8 billion Group reported EBITDA1 increased 8% to R729 million excluding Türkiye-related hyperinflation; after taking into account non-operational hyperinflation, EBITDA decreased 27% to R385 million Net finance expenses 59% or R166 million higher, largely due to extreme interest rates in Türkiye Hesto Harnesses, successfully turned around to deliver post-tax equity…

Sep 26, 2024 Buzz

FUCHS’ training initiatives foster youth development and employability

Leading manufacturer and supplier FUCHS LUBRICANTS SOUTH AFRICA is not only committed to local innovation, but also has extensive training initiatives in place to foster youth development. By aligning closely with industry trends and technological advancements, the FUCHS training programmes enhance overall employability and add to the industry’s skills base, comments HR Executive Annelia…

Sep 25, 2024 Buzz

The GAC Motor GS3 EMZOOM earns a five-star ASEAN NCAP rating

When the GS3 EMZOOM debuted in August 2024, it quickly captured attention with its bold styling and impressive performance. By replacing its more conservative exterior with a sportier design, the GS3 EMZOOM positioned itself as a standout contender in the competitive SUV market. This strategic design shift not only enhanced its visual appeal but also gave it a distinctive edge over rivals, making…

Sep 24, 2024 Buzz

“Automechanika Frankfurt has given the Spanish automotive aftermarket sector the opportunity to show its commitment to innovation and internationalisation”

From September 10th to 14th, Automechanika Frankfurt consolidated itself again as the referential international fair for the automotive after-sale. With this important appointment in mind, SERNAUTO (Spanish Association of Automotive Suppliers) was present again on the sector’s behalf with the objective of bringing visibility and notoriety to the Spanish offer of automotive suppliers at…

Sep 24, 2024 Buzz

Stellantis Deploys AI-enabled Innovations to Boost Manufacturing Efficiency, Sustainability and Improve Workplace

Stellantis manufacturing leaders embrace the challenge to discover and implement production processes that leverage workers’ talents, ensure product quality, improve efficiencies and produce vehicles and components efficiently with minimal environmental impact. Now in its ninth year, Stellantis’ annual Factory Booster Day is a key part of driving manufacturing improvements to meet the demands of…

Sep 24, 2024 Buzz

Collaborative partnerships benefit young learners

Earlier this year, the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), launched SpannerTorque, a new technical platform to empower members with the latest technical trends and product information. The platform was launched in collaboration with a number of key suppliers like HaynesPro, TecAlliance, Bosch, TotalEnergies, SKF, My…

Sep 24, 2024 Buzz

Windfall for local charities

Three charitable organisations on the Garden Route have benefitted substantially from the Eden Classic Car Group’s Car and Motorcycle Show staged at the Scarab Village in Sedgefield earlier this year. A total of R42 688, which was the bulk of the gate takings, has been paid out to the three charities, which were the Sedgefield/Knysna Hospice, The Living Cornerstone, in Sedgefield (an Alzheimer…

Sep 24, 2024 Buzz

Unions must face economic reality and stop exacerbating unemployment

Irvin Jim, the General Secretary of NUMSA, recently made a statement entitled, “The current government has no solutions to solve the unemployment crisis”. This statement is riddled with economic fallacies and outdated thinking, including the well-known fixed pie theory and the single breadwinner fallacy. He assumes that the wealth or resources in the economy are static and overlooks the broader…

Sep 23, 2024 Buzz

2024 SEMA Show in Las Vegas - Early Bird Registration is Closing Soon!

Don't miss the 2024 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, NV! Register by September 27th to snag the discounted pricing options

Sep 23, 2024 Buzz

VW Train 4 Life initiative crowns 2024 winners

Fedilitas Secondary School in Diepkloof Soweto has been crowned as the 2024 VW Train 4 Life soccer tournament champions. Fedilitas defeated Fons Luminus Secondary School in the penalty shoot-out during the finals hosted at the University of Johannesburg’s Soweto campus on 17 September 2024. The VW Train 4 Life initiative is an education and sports programme that features an under 15 girls' soccer…

Sep 23, 2024 Buzz

‘Boots ’n all’ Boosman locks in car sales through rugby

There is no sitting on the sidelines waiting for things to happen in the world of Eastern Cape vehicle sales executive Desmond Boosman. Whether it’s selling cars or overseeing the affairs of his rugby club and the sport in the region, the 51-year-old is in boots ’n all. What stands out about the father of two is that he has found a way to combine his passion for his job with his love of the game…

Sep 20, 2024 Buzz

Informal Workshop Webinar 24 October 2024: Contracts of Employment

NEASA will be conducting an informal workshop webinar to assist business owners, managers, HR and IR managers with the processes and procedures involved in contracting with employees. OBJECTIVES The objectives include providing delegates with an understanding of the: pro-employer contractual clauses; permanent and fixed-term contracts; the use of temporary employment services (TES); and part-time…

Sep 20, 2024 Buzz

Procurement, supply chains emerging as powerful vehicles for positive change across Africa

CIPS Africa Conference 2024 highlights the significant role the industry can play in empowering communities, protecting the planet and ensuring a better future for all The CIPS Africa Conference 2024 delivered a powerful message that economies and societies across the continent can be transformed through the implementation of ethical and responsible procurement practices. The two-day conference,…

Sep 20, 2024 Buzz

BRICS currency proposal: A misguided venture doomed to fail

BRICS is a nonsensical trade alliance that really shouldn’t exist at all, much less be proposing a shared digital currency. We should be relieved that Russia’s enthusiasm for the BRICS currency has not been shared amongst all BRICS nations, as it truly does not make sense. Shared currencies can help to facilitate international trade. That is why the US dollar has aided one of the most prosperous…

Sep 20, 2024 Buzz

ISUZU celebrates 60 years of trucks and 45 years of bakkies: a heritage of resilience and growth

ISUZU MOTORS South Africa (ISUZU) is proud to be marking 60 and 45 years of truck and reliable bakkie production in the country. As one of the renowned vehicle Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) in South Africa, ISUZU is proud of its long heritage and positive contribution to South Africa and the continent at large. This is a demonstration of the company’s resilience, moulded through multiple…

Sep 20, 2024 Buzz

Automechanika Johannesburg 2024 – The Premier Automotive Industry Event!

Join Us at Automechanika Johannesburg 2024 – The Premier Automotive Industry Event! We are excited to invite you to the ninth edition of Automechanika Johannesburg, taking place from 19-21 November 2024. As South Africa’s leading international trade fair for the automotive service industry, this event offers unparalleled networking opportunities and targets trade visitors from across the…

Sep 20, 2024 Buzz

Cynthia Thala’s inspiring trucking journey

The #ThankYouTrucker campaign is currently running and there is still time to vote until the 20th September 2024.The objective of this campaign is to highlight the unsung heroes of the South African trucking industry and to celebrate truck drivers who go above and beyond. Cynthia is a Bulk Vehicle Operator (BVO) with Unitrans where she has spent the last 5 years. She was born and raised in Vaal…

Sep 19, 2024 Buzz

Zero Emissions Day: Zero Carbon Charge plans to reduce over 1 million tonnes of CO2 by 2030 supporting Government’s call to fight climate change

Ahead of Zero Emissions Day on 21 September 2024, Zero Carbon Charge reaffirms its commitment to driving sustainable, zero-emission mobility in South Africa. Our nationwide development of 120 off-grid, solar-powered electric vehicle (EV) charging stations is poised to play a critical role in helping South Africa meet its CO2 reduction targets, as outlined by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries…

Sep 19, 2024 Buzz

Thule launches three new award-winning products in SA

Thule South Africa are expanding their local product offering with the launch of three new products that epitomise the brands ethos of “Bring your life”. Earlier this year Thule was honoured by the judges of the 2024 Red Dot design awards with the title Red Dot: Design Team of the Year 2024. The judges awarded this recognition for the brands all-encompassing achievements in product design.…

Sep 19, 2024 Buzz

This is what our next generation of talent looks like

This weekend well-known local KZN Technical school, Meadowlands Technical high school was abuzz with activity and talent as they hosted their very first Motor Mech competition on Saturday 14 September in conjunction with the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA) a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI). Recognising the critical need for scarce skills in the country…

Sep 19, 2024 Buzz

Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) - Utter Disaster!

NEASA has, in the past, published communiques regarding the disastrous state of affairs at the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF). The issues of inefficient staff at labour offices, broken or dysfunctional online systems, non-payments of benefits, service provider court battles and a plethora of other challenges have seemingly finally brought the UIF to its knees. On 30 August 2024, the Pretoria…

Sep 19, 2024 Buzz

Local brands, big and small can celebrate excellence with SA Customer Experience Awards

The world-renowned Customer Experience Awards is launched in South Africa for the first time ever, giving local, homegrown brands an opportunity to be a part of a groundbreaking initiative set to recognise and celebrate outstanding achievements in customer experience (CX) across various industries in South Africa. “While many people view customer service as customer experience, the fact is that…

Sep 18, 2024 Buzz

KZN Growth Fund Agency automates funding application process

The KZN Growth Fund Agency (KZNGFA) has completed the automation of its funding application process, culminating in the launch of an Online Application Portal, linked to the fund’s website. Online submissions will save applicants’ time, while also supporting entrepreneurs with the funding process to ensure that all applications are submitted with all the necessary information, in order to speed…

Sep 18, 2024 Buzz

Join Leading Global Companies to Find New Suppliers

The global automotive aftermarket is showing strong growth in 2024, boosted by a high average vehicle age and the resulting need for maintenance. However, some challenges like continued parts supply shortages and delays still remain. Global automotive aftermarket leaders like NAPA Auto Parts, Volkswagen, Nissan, Alibaba.com, and eBay come to AAPEX to source solutions from more than 2,500…

Sep 18, 2024 Buzz

Engen’s enduring partnership with Nampo continues to empower farmers

Engen reaffirmed its support for the agricultural sector by partnering with Grain SA at Nampo Cape 2024. Held from 11-14 September in Bredasdorp, Western Cape, the event marked its 5th anniversary and bringing together the best in agriculture, innovation, and technology. This year’s theme, “Agriculture: The Backbone of Economic Growth,” highlighted the essential role the sector plays in driving…

Sep 18, 2024 Buzz

World Rivers Day and the Ford Wildlife Foundation's Contribution to Conservation

World Rivers Day, celebrated on Sunday, 22 September 2024, is a global event that underscores the importance of rivers and their conservation. Rivers are essential to ecosystems, biodiversity, human life, and economic activities. They provide fresh water which is vital for drinking, agriculture, industry, and energy, making them indispensable to life on Earth. Despite their importance, rivers…

Sep 17, 2024 Buzz

NATIONAL RECYCLING DAY - Three things you can do to reduce your waste footprint

In a world that seems to be drowning in waste, one of the best things we can do is instil a culture of separation-at-source and recycling. Separation-at-source is a simple practice of sorting our waste in our home, schools, or businesses before it gets collected and recycled. Instead of throwing everything into one bin, you should separate items into different categories, such as: Recyclables…

Sep 17, 2024 Buzz

DETAILED TERMS ANNOUNCEMENT REGARDING THE DISPOSAL OF METAIR’S TURKISH OPERATIONS

Click below to read the full document Read Announcement Here

Sep 17, 2024 Buzz

Toyota South Africa Motors Partners with Local NGO in Successful Beach Cleanup

In celebration of International Coastal Clean-Up Day and the arrival of Spring, Toyota South Africa Motors proudly completed its second annual beach cleanup at the Umbogintwini river mouth in Isipingo partnering with local NGO, Clean Surf Project. Enthusiastic Toyota employees and contractors volunteered to tackle the beach cleanup. Their collective efforts resulted in the removal of more than…

Sep 17, 2024 Buzz

Right to Repair South Africa attends Global Right to Repair meeting

Representatives from Right to Repair South Africa were in Frankfurt last week to attend the Global Right to Repair Meeting held during Automechanika 2024. Kate Elliott, CEO of Right to Repair SA, says the meeting was attended by thirty associations representing the multi-brand vehicle aftermarket in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, India, South Africa and the USA, with representation from…

Sep 17, 2024 Buzz

Kia continues its longstanding support of the annual Seven7 Drive in aid of kids with cancer for the 9th time

Kia South Africa this week embarks on the annual Seven7 Drive in aid of kids with cancer. Kia was the founding vehicle partner of the drive, which takes place annually in September to mark global Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, and celebrates its 9th anniversary this year. Having participated with a raft of two-wheel drive vehicles in the past and never being shy of a challenge, Kia is…

Sep 16, 2024 Buzz

Innovator summit in Frankfurt: Automechanika shows the way forward for the mobility transition

Automechanika Frankfurt showed once again in 2024 why it is the leading international trade fair for the automotive industry. 4,200 companies from 80 countries presented their very latest products and innovative solutions for retail, workshops and industry. Over an area of 320,000 square metres and 26 hall levels, trade visitors from 172 countries were able to discover pioneering technologies and…

Sep 14, 2024 Buzz

The 2024 Seven7 Drive gears up for an epic cross-country drive in aid of kids with cancer

Taking place annually in September – Childhood Cancer Awareness Month – the cross-country drive is the flagship fundraiser for the Seven7 Drive NPC. Now a standalone non-profit organisation with a renewed focus on making a tangible difference in the lives of kids with cancer, the 2024 Seven7 Drive, now in its 9th year, is set to embark on an epic cross-country drive next week. Cancer is the…

Sep 14, 2024 Buzz

Champion Lubricants highlights value-adding service offering for partners

Champion Lubricants continues to expand its value-added services for its aftermarket partners worldwide. These services enhance efficiency, productivity, and product knowledge, assisting partners and end-users to capitalise on commercial opportunities. This is a core element of Champion’s customer-centric approach, equipping distributors and workshops with the tools, information, and support to…

Sep 14, 2024 Buzz

Wolf Oil Corporation aligns for future-proof growth

Wolf Oil Corporation has embarked on a new journey for growth with a number of important strategic developments. This includes the launch of a new mission and vision that will guide the company’s efforts in the coming years as it prepares for the future of mobility. Since Wolf Oil Corporation’s establishment in 1955, it has made significant advances and achieved long-term growth. Calculated…

Sep 13, 2024 Buzz

Compensation Fund Contributions: You can possibly save on your annual contributions!

NEASA and its specialist service provider have helped employers save millions in Compensation Fund contributions. With well over 400 assisted employers to date, we have been successful in identifying savings for businesses of all sizes. This service is rendered on a success-based fee structure - no saving = no fee. Many companies, due to being incorrectly categorised by the Compensation Fund,…

Sep 13, 2024 Buzz

Rugby icons join hands with Engen

Engen, South Africa’s biggest fuel brand and the Official Fuel Supplier of the Springboks, has officially welcomed four rugby legends as brand ambassadors, inviting rugby fans to join it in celebrating this exciting new chapter and to share in the joy of the game loved by so many. Rugby superstars, Siya Kolisi, Eben Etzebeth, Cheslin Kolbe, and retired Springbok, Tendai Mtawarira were unveiled by…

Sep 13, 2024 Buzz

Withdrawals from saving in the two-pot retirement system: Employers, warn your employees! They are impoverishing their future selves

Within 24 hours of the effective date of the new two-pot pension law, SARS processed almost 2,500 tax withdrawal directives, while some fund administrators battled with system crashes as members flooded them with withdrawal requests. Of those, SARS had already processed 2,424 tax directives by the next morning, requesting R103-million worth of withdrawals from retirement funds and delivering…

Sep 13, 2024 Buzz

Better policy key to industrialisation

No amount of money will magically make South Africa industrialise and its economy grow; the issue with this country is not a lack of capital. There are plenty of rich businesses, private funds, and a sophisticated banking and investment infrastructure to enable the transfer of wealth to fund any lucrative project. The fundamental problem with industrialisation in this country is that South Africa…

Sep 12, 2024 Buzz

New training programme addresses skills gap in motor dealerships

The critical need for trained staff in automotive retail dealerships is underscored by the increasing number of new and returning vehicle brands entering the South African market and establishing trading networks across the country. The Future Dealership Development Programme (FDDP), an innovative initiative developed to meet this demand, focuses particularly on empowering women to take on…

Sep 12, 2024 Buzz

Stellantis Invests More than $406 Million in Three Michigan Facilities to Execute Multi-Energy Strategy

Stellantis announced it is investing more than $406 million in three Michigan facilities to support its multi-energy strategy and confirmed that the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant (SHAP) will be the Company’s first U.S. plant to build a fully electric vehicle. The Ram 1500 REV, the Company’s first battery-electric light-duty pickup truck launching in late 2024, and the range-extended all-new…

Sep 11, 2024 Buzz

Sinotruk Signs Up for Futuroad Expo 2024

In a landmark move, Sinotruk, one of the world's leading heavy-duty truck manufacturers, has become the first original equipment manufacturer (OEM) to announce its participation at Futuroad Expo 2024, which takes place from 19 to 21 November at Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg. This marks a significant milestone for both Sinotruk and the Expo, as the Chinese truck giant looks to expand its…

Sep 11, 2024 Buzz

Socialism is tyranny

In South Africa, we still have self-avowed and proud socialists in our political midst; from the ironically named Economic Freedom Fighters to the alliance of the former ruling party, the African National Congress with the South African Communist Party. Yet socialism, by its definition, is the negation of the individual rights that South Africans hold dear. What is understood as socialism, in its…

Sep 11, 2024 Buzz

Calling all South African brands to celebrate excellence with the brand new SA Customer Experience Awards

The world-renowned **International Customer Experience Awards UK (ICXA™) is thrilled to announce the launch of the South Africa Customer Experience Awards (SACXA™), a groundbreaking initiative set to recognise and celebrate outstanding achievements in customer experience (CX) across various industries in South Africa. This prestigious inaugural event marks the homegrown edition of the well-known…

Sep 11, 2024 Buzz

Axalta Introduces Axalta Nimbus, an Advanced Cloud-Based Platform for Refinish Customers, to Improve Productivity and Performance

Axalta Nimbus connects all of Axalta’s tools and resources in a single platform helping customers to do business smarter Axalta (NYSE: AXTA), a leading global coatings company, today announced the launch of Axalta Nimbus, its global customer experience platform for refinish customers. This technology seamlessly connects customers to all of Axalta’s tools and resources to improve efficiency,…

Sep 11, 2024 Buzz

Automechanika Innovation Awards 2024: These are this year's winners

The winners were presented with the coveted Innovation Awards at a festive awards ceremony this evening on the first day of Automechanika Frankfurt. In addition to the eight awards, which included categories such as Electromobility & Innovative Drive Technologies, Workshop & Service Solutions, Parts & Innovative Technologies and Data & Connectivity, a Green Award was also presented for a…

Sep 10, 2024 Buzz

A state-owned bank is a dreadful idea

Panyaza Lesufi, Premier of Gauteng, has expressed his wishes for the state to establish a provincial bank, to be run by the government for the purpose of providing capital for projects which are deemed unprofitable, but socially important. While the published goals of this project may seem virtuous, South Africa’s state-owned enterprises have a dreadful track record. Unfortunately, if this bank…

Sep 10, 2024 Buzz

Four new solutions fill the gap in automotive repair products

Fuss-free touch-ups and fixes are finally possible. Plascon’s new auto-ready range launches to the trade in September 2024: MasterMix Universal Putty, MasterMix HS Clearcoat & Hardener, and several new MasterMix BBR Toners. MasterMix is in step with global innovation and the result is a reliable range of user-friendly products. Putty putting the power in your hands MasterMix Universal Putty is…

Sep 10, 2024 Buzz

ISUZU Plants the Future with Arbor Week School Garden Initiative

As part of its ongoing commitment to educating our future leaders about sustainability and preserving our local biodiversity, ISUZU MOTORS South Africa (ISUZU), in collaboration with Giving Them Wings Foundation, marked Arbor Week by creating two gardens in two primary schools, planting 600 indigenous plants and 200 spekboom. This initiative, which benefits 1,095 learners at Astra Primary in…

Sep 10, 2024 Buzz

New technologies and innovations for tomorrow’s mobility at Automechanika Frankfurt 2024

From 10 to 14 September, the international automotive industry will be getting together at the leading industry event in Frankfurt. Participants from more than 170 countries are expected to be on hand for the five-day trade fair, including some 4,200 exhibitors from industry, workshops and trade. This year’s event is focusing on the topics of electrification, sustainability, digitalisation,…

Sep 09, 2024 Buzz

Hire me! I cost less… and I’ll have a job certificate to make it easier for you

I have been out of work for almost a year now. I am prepared to work hard to prove myself. If anything, the period of unemployment has made me more appreciative of having a job – any job. I am prepared to work for a lower salary than the recommended hourly rate and will forego labour laws that might be in my favour. No unions for me, thanks. I won't turn to the CCMA should I feel I have been…

Sep 09, 2024 Buzz

AAG 2024 concludes with a record-breaking visitor participation, a 36 percent increase from previous year

The three-day Auto Aftermarket Guangzhou (AAG) 2024 came to a successful close on 30 August at the Poly World Trade Expo Center (PWTC Expo) in Guangzhou. The exhibition showcased a wide range of cutting-edge technologies, products and solutions across six halls, covering core areas of the aftermarket supply chain such as parts and components, oil, lubricants and fuel, accessories, customising and…

Sep 09, 2024 Buzz

Sasol Solar Challenge 2024: Unveiling New Routes and Showcasing Global Innovation

Africa’s premier solar car event, the Sasol Solar Challenge (SSC), returns for its 8th edition in September 2024, promising an exhilarating blend of innovation, competition, and sustainability. With a striking new route, record-breaking female participation, and participation from the world’s leading solar car teams, the SSC is set to solidify its place among the top solar events globally.…

Sep 09, 2024 Buzz

Ultimate Sasol Solar Challenge Event Companion App!

We are excited to introduce our brand-new app, designed to enhance your experience at the 2024 Sasol Solar Challenge – the ultimate endurance and strategy solar car event! Whether you're a fan, participant, or passionate about being at the forefront of innovation, this app has everything you need to stay informed and connected throughout the challenge. With this app, you can access: Exclusive…

Sep 06, 2024 Buzz

Value sharing: Renault Group launches its third employee share ownership plan as part of the Renaulution

Renault Group believes that employees should benefit directly from the company’s performance. Two years ago, it launched its first employee share ownership plan. Following the success of the Renaulution Shareplan in 2022 and 2023, Renault Group is repeating this initiative in 2024, with the aim of enabling nearly 98,000 employees to become company shareholders on preferential terms. The plan…

Sep 06, 2024 Buzz

naamsa | SA Auto Week EARLY BIRD SPECIAL 50% Off

Join us at The South African Auto Week 2024, hosted by naamsa | The Automotive Business Council at the Cape Town International Convention Centre [CTICC], from October 15-18. Get 50% OFF on a standard ticket—normally priced at R4800, now only R2400! This incredible offer is valid from September 5-20, but hurry—it's limited to just 650 tickets! Secure your spot today and be part of the premier…

Sep 06, 2024 Buzz

Ford South Africa Marks World Literacy Day with Commitment to Education and Community Legacy Projects

As the world commemorates International Literacy Day on Sunday, 08 September 2024, Ford South Africa reaffirms its commitment to tackling the literacy crisis in the country through its enduring legacy projects. Despite significant investments in education, South Africa continues to grapple with high illiteracy rates, particularly among young learners. According to the 2024 Reading Panel report,…

Sep 06, 2024 Buzz

Goodyear ultra-low noise tyres chosen by Audi to equip all-new Q6 e-tron

Goodyear tyres have been chosen as original equipment (OE) fitments on the brand-new Audi Q6 e-tron, the German automaker’s new fully electric premium SUV. Goodyear developed its range of summer and winter tyres with a specific focus on suiting the characteristics of the Audi electric SUV, incorporating technology that reduces road noise. Goodyear’s Audi Q6 e-tron fitments come from its Eagle F1…

Sep 06, 2024 Buzz

Stellantis partners with SA Auto Week

Stellantis South Africa will be in Cape Town supporting SA Auto Week in October this year, as the vitally important automotive summit returns to the Mother City. Organised every year by naamsa | the Automotive Business Council, SA Auto Week brings industry thought leaders together from across the country, the continent, and the globe to discuss mutual automotive issues, discover development…

Sep 06, 2024 Buzz

AA applauds announcement of investigation into smart driving licence procurement process

The Automobile Association (AA) is pleased that the audit of the procurement process for the country’s new smart driving licence cards by the Auditor-General (AG) will now include an investigation into several important issues raised by the Association and other civic organisations. Earlier this week the Department of Transport (DoT) announced it had appointed French multi-national technology…

Sep 06, 2024 Buzz

PEUGEOT becomes ‘official education partner’ of Under The Pole

Since May 2024, PEUGEOT has continued and taken its partnership with the UNDER THE POLE underwater exploration program further. This program combines innovative expeditions around the world, scientific research, and actions to raise awareness about ocean conservation. PEUGEOT shares this philosophy: the brand has decided to place EDUCATION at the heart of its responsible strategy and focus its…

Sep 05, 2024 Buzz

Jeep® Avenger Celebrates Production Milestone: 100,000 Units Produced at Tychy Plant

Jeep® is proud to announce a significant milestone in the production of the Jeep Avenger, with the 100,000th unit rolling off the assembly line at the Tychy plant. This landmark vehicle is an e-Hybrid model, showcasing Jeep’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. Celebrated as the European Car of the Year in 2023, the Jeep Avenger has achieved remarkable recognition and popularity. Setting…

Sep 05, 2024 Buzz

Mazibuko Motor Company Revs Up Sustainable Mobility in Africa

Mazibuko Motor Company, a battery electric and solar startup, is making waves in the African mobility landscape with its innovative electric vehicle solutions. Founder and CEO Nhlanhla Mazibuko, who will be pitching at the Smarter Mobility Africa summit in a few weeks time, is addressing the growing need for sustainable transportation on the continent. "We're seeing a growth in electric vehicles,…

Sep 05, 2024 Buzz

RMI forms partnership to drive transformation

In a concerted move to rev up the pace of transformation and provide support for smaller businesses within the informal automotive sector, the Retail Motor Industry Organisation, representing approximately 8 500 member businesses in the automotive aftermarket, has embarked on an exciting business development programme for its National African Association of Automobile Service Providers (NAAASP)…

Sep 05, 2024 Buzz

Champion Lubricants to showcase latest product innovations and new services at Automechanika Frankfurt 2024

Champion Lubricants ready to unveil new products and services at Automechanika Innovative new solutions for automotive IAM and Heavy-Duty services Press conference covering novelties and innovations to be held on 11th September The Champion Lubricants stand will be located in hall 12, booth B21 Champion Lubricants is excited to announce its return to Automechanika Frankfurt, later this year. The…

Sep 05, 2024 Buzz

Wolf Lubricants to launch new products and services at Automechanika Frankfurt 2024

Wolf Lubricants is pleased to announce that it will be launching an exciting number of new products and services at the iconic aftermarket fair, Automechanika Frankfurt. This year, Automechanika Frankfurt will run from the 10th to 14th of September in Frankfurt am Main. The brand will be showcasing a number of new product launches at the event, demonstrating its commitment to progress with…

Sep 05, 2024 Buzz

Defender marks 70 years of British Red Cross partnership with Land Rover Classic restoration at Goodwood Revival

Defender has chosen a fitting way to celebrate the 70th anniversary of Defender’s ongoing humanitarian partnership with the British Red Cross. Working with the expert engineers and craftspeople at Land Rover Classic, it will showcase the restoration of a Series IIA ambulance that served with the British Red Cross. The historic model will take pride of place on the stand at this year’s Goodwood…

Sep 05, 2024 Buzz

TecAlliance Brings a Multi-Faceted Programme to Automechanika Frankfurt

At Automechanika Frankfurt, TecAlliance will present its newest solutions for the automotive aftermarket in Hall 3.0 at Stand B50 to offer a platform for in-depth discussions. The focus will be on an extensive programme of keynote talks, live demonstrations and individual meetings with customers and international partners. In eBay's E-Commerce Lounge (Hall 2, Stand C51), TecAlliance will also…

Sep 05, 2024 Buzz

Stellantis Strengthens its Commitment to Egypt with Local Manufacturing and Assembly of Jeep® Grand Cherokee L

Stellantis Middle East and Africa (MEA) region, integral to the Company's "Third Engine" strategy within its global operations, today marked a significant milestone in its MEA expansion with the launch and local assembly of the Jeep® Grand Cherokee L in Egypt at the Arab American Vehicles (AAV) plant, affiliated with the Arab Organization for Industrialization. This restart of local manufacturing…

Sep 04, 2024 Buzz

Axalta Introduces Axalta Irus Scan, a Next-Generation Spectrophotometer, for Refinish Customers

Innovation helps customers improve productivity, optimise labour and reduce waste while delivering accurate colour matches Axalta (NYSE: AXTA), a leading global coatings company, today announced the launch of Axalta Irus Scan, its latest spectrophotometer for refinish customers. This new technology scientifically measures paint colour on a vehicle to provide accurate colour matches in waterborne…

Sep 04, 2024 Buzz

ISUZU MOTORS South Africa Sets New Benchmark with 2024 Sustainability Report

ISUZU MOTORS South Africa (ISUZU) has released its latest sustainability report which details the company’s journey towards enhancing transparency, accountability, and ethical business practices. The report covers the financial year from 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024. ISUZU’s 2024 sustainability report has undergone independent third-party assurance, adhering to sustainability reporting in line…

Sep 04, 2024 Buzz

E-sports and careers: Generation Z experiences the future of the automotive industry at Automechanika

This year’s Automechanika will be offering Gen Z an entirely new side event from 10 to 14 September that goes far beyond traditional trade fair activities: AMBITION. This is where the very latest technologies are brought together with tomorrow’s careers: gaming, entertainment and e-sports are merged with HR, new work and recruitment topics. Numerous information stands and a separate recruitment…

Sep 04, 2024 Buzz

GDP figures: FMF demands greater urgency in addressing economic woes

The Free Market Foundation (FMF) has called on the Government of National Unity (GNU) to act with greater urgency in addressing the countless constraints on economic growth. This comes after the release by Statistics South Africa (StatsSA), which revealed that real GDP increased by a paltry 0,4% in Q2 2024. The FMF argues that whilst improved investor confidence and heightened optimism following…

Sep 04, 2024 Buzz

FUCHS showcases its complete mining lubricants range at Electra Mining Africa 2024

Ongoing pressure on commodity prices and reduced output has seen the global mining industry focus increasingly on energy efficiency and optimising production. “There is a major emphasis on cutting costs, especially in terms of proactive maintenance, which is where our products play a key role,” comments Dave Gons, National Manager Mining | Regional Mining Manager Sub-Saharan Africa at FUCHS…

Sep 03, 2024 Buzz

Continental Tyre South Africa is Committed to Sustainability and Environmental Protection

Continental Tyre South Africa has achieved its continued certification for ISO 14001 and ISO 45001, confirming the Gqeberha-based tyre manufacturer’s proven commitment to sustainability and minimising its impact on the environment, while also creating a healthy and safe working environment for its employees, contractors and suppliers. As the only Continental tyre manufacturing plant on the…

Sep 03, 2024 Buzz

Toyota’s sales surge continues through August

Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) continues to lead local vehicle sales, racking up 10 656 sales of the overall 43,588 units sold to domestic customers during August. This translates to a market share of 24,4%. TSAM also topped the charts in Passenger, Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) and Medium Commercial Vehicle (MCV) segments. In the LCV front, Hilux continues to be a fan favourite leading the…

Sep 03, 2024 Buzz

CILTSA and Vaal University of Technology Sign Historic MoU

The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport: South Africa (CILTSA) and the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) have signed a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking a significant step towards bridging the gap between academic knowledge and practical industry experience in the logistics and transport sector. The MoU, signed on 19 August 2024 at the VUT Main Campus in…

Sep 03, 2024 Buzz

Fourth consecutive drop in fuel prices a welcome relief

Central Energy Fund predictions of yet another fuel drop in September have materialised with prices decreasing from midnight on Tuesday 3 September by as much as 92 cents for petrol. Henry van der Merwe, Chairman of South African Petroleum Retailers Association (SAPRA), representing the interest of numerous petroleum retailers in South Africa and a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry…

Sep 03, 2024 Buzz

Automotive aftermarket trade in Africa and the growth of the EV market: beckoning huge opportunities

The well-attended 3rd Quarter Automechanika Johannesburg CEO Breakfast on Friday 30 August 2024 at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit revealed the spectrum of explorable business opportunities for the automotive aftermarket and the commercial vehicle sector in Africa. The event no doubt stimulated entrepreneurial thinking among attending industry leaders who were presented with illuminating facts and…

Sep 03, 2024 Buzz

naamsa releases August 2024 new vehicle sales statistics

43 days and counting to the naamsa SA Auto Week 2024 event Reflecting on the new vehicle sales statistics naamsa | The Automotive Business Council said that the positive July 2024 new vehicle market performance could unfortunately not fuel a sustained rebound in the August 2024 sales performance. Aggregate domestic new vehicle sales in August 2024, at 43,588 units, reflected a decrease of 2,266…

Sep 02, 2024 Buzz

WesBank CEO forecasts recovery of local automotive sector

The 2024 Festival of Motoring served up an abundance of good news for motoring enthusiasts, including the local unveiling of several new internal combustion engine (ICE) and EV models, amongst these the new Ford Mustang and VW T-Cross, as well as Jetour J6 and BYD Seal EVs. Product launch activity is bound to stimulate the country’s new vehicle market, which is primed for improved recovery,…

Sep 02, 2024 Buzz

Sales of Chinese vehicle brands accelerate… as have non-Chinese brands made-in-China

Chinese vehicle brands accounted for 9% of all Light Vehicles sold in South Africa in 2024, until July, up from just 2% in 2019. And sales of non-Chinese owned brands – but made in China - have also increased, from 2% in 2019 to 10% in 2024. Five Chinese makes reported sales to naamsa across the Light Vehicle (Passenger and Light Commercial) markets in 2019 and made up 12% of the total number of…

Sep 02, 2024 Buzz

Lexus recognised for outstanding customer experience at 2024 Ask Afrika Orange Index awards

Lexus South Africa has been recognised for outstanding customer experience in both sales and service at the 23rd Ask Afrika Orange Index Conference and Awards. Recently held at GIBS, Lexus earned the number 7 spot out of 200 brands surveyed to receive the Top 10 Achiever Award. Additionally, Lexus proudly secured a place among the top three in the Automotive category. The Ask Afrika Orange Index…

Sep 02, 2024 Buzz

Report casts a crystal ball view on South Africa’s future by 2040

As South Africa celebrates its 30th year as a democracy, what new transformational milestones can it look forward to by 2040? On the halfway mark between 2030’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and 2050’s global net zero climate goals, South Africa could see a boom in regenerative high-tech farming, 6G-powered smart cities, an industrial metaverse, automated robotic mining, electric trucks,…

Sep 02, 2024 Buzz

Comic Con Africa returns with Toyota as the official event partner

Prepare your finest cosplay outfits and come out to play! Comic Con Africa is coming back to Johannesburg with Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) returning as the official event partner for the 3rd year running. As part of our partnership, the Toyota Gaming Engine [TTGE] will be offering an array of games to play for epic prizes. Whether you’re new to gaming or a seasoned veteran, come and play…

Sep 02, 2024 Buzz

More fuel relief for South Africans in September

More good news for South Africans on the back of data showing consumer inflation is at a three-year low, is that fuel prices across the broad will decrease in September for the fourth consecutive month in 2024. Unaudited data from the Central Energy Fund (CEF) is showing that 95ULP is set to drop by around 94 cents/litre, and 93ULP by around 86c/l. The wholesale price of diesel is expected to…

Aug 30, 2024 Buzz

Quick Tip: Quality Control Process

Thorough quality control occurs throughout the repair process, not just as a final inspection at the end of the repair. The objective is to ensure all tasks were completed well, and to the internal expectation. It’s not just important to inspect the work, but to ensure there has been thorough documentation of OEM procedures, weld quality, corrosion protection, and other steps than can affect the…

Aug 30, 2024 Buzz

OMODA celebrates the role of women in automotive this Women’s Month

OMODA pays tribute to the crucial role that women play in South Africa’s broader automotive space this Women’s Month, while also highlighting the contributions made by the many female individuals involved with the success of the fast-growing brand. While National Women’s Day is celebrated on 9 August – commemorating the 1956 march of more than 20 000 women to the Union Buildings – Women’s Month…

Aug 30, 2024 Buzz

National Minimum Wage Adjustment: Employer, have your say!

On 20 August 2024, the National Minimum Wage Commission (‘the Commission’) published an invitation for written representations by the public, regarding the review of the National Minimum Wage (NMW) and any possible adjustments thereto. In this year’s invitation for comments, the Commission has included a questionnaire that affected parties must complete and which must accompany their written…

Aug 30, 2024 Buzz

Toyota South Africa Motors welcomes J’Something to the Toyota family

Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) is thrilled to announce that renowned musician and lifestyle icon J'Something is the newest addition to the Toyota family as a brand representative. Renowned for his for his extraordinary talent and vibrant personality, J'Something is set to take the wheel of the all-new Land Cruiser Prado 2.8 VX-R, a vehicle that perfectly reflects his adventurous spirit and…

Aug 29, 2024 Buzz

Forensic Investigation in employee misconduct

Have you suffered damages or losses due to the misconduct of your employees? Do you find it near impossible to prove the misconduct of your employees due to collusion, insider information, or lack of evidence? Is your insurance not paying out for your business losses due to the negligence or involvement of your employees in hijackings, theft, or fraud? During labour disputes, employers carry the…

Aug 29, 2024 Buzz

Topics to be Covered at the 2024 Manufacturing Indaba Conference

Manufacturing Indaba endeavours to promote a positive change to Sub-Saharan Africa’s manufacturing landscape - a source of livelihood for millions of people and leading contributor to the region’s gross domestic product (GDP) The 11th instalment of the Manufacturing Indaba not only aspires to meet participants’ expectations but exceed them, by hosting an event to achieve objectives integral to…

Aug 29, 2024 Buzz

Mobility for All at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris

The Toyota Inclusive Mobility Park, a showcase of different mobility solutions will continue to be a marvel at the 2024 Paralympic Games. The park, which officially opened 24 July 2024, is located near the Eiffel Tower and is open to Toyota guests by invitation for the duration of the Games, and to the public from 9-10 September 2024. Toyota, as the worldwide mobility partner of the International…

Aug 29, 2024 Buzz

TecAlliance Expands Global Footprint, Strengthens Regional Focus

TecAlliance, the leading expert for data management and processes in the automotive aftermarket, is taking significant steps to strengthen its global presence. To better support its expanding global customer base, the data expert has reorganised its commercial structure into four main regions: the Americas, Asia-Pacific, China, and EMEA. This strategic alignment allows TecAlliance to effectively…

Aug 29, 2024 Buzz

Setting new standards for Autobody Repair

Far from the dated image of cluttered garages and prolonged repairs, modern technology is revolutionising the motor body repair industry, optimising processes and ushering in a new era of precision and customer satisfaction. Dev Moodley, Chairman of the South African Motor Body Repairer’s Association (SAMBRA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation, responsible for nearly…

Aug 29, 2024 Buzz

Change of Leadership at Mercedes-Benz South Africa Ltd

Mercedes-Benz South Africa Limited (MBSA) announces that Mark Raine will step down from his role as the Co-Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director Mercedes-Benz Cars, effective 31 August 2024. Mark will be taking up an opportunity to oversee the responsibility for Direct Sales, Omni-Channel Commerce & Data Management in Stuttgart, Germany. “Mark's three-year tenure with us has been nothing…

Aug 29, 2024 Buzz

The fatal flaw with minimum wage policies

During this year’s South African elections, I saw a BOSA (Build One South Africa) election poster that read, "One Job in Every Home." This slogan encapsulates the notion that a single breadwinner earning a “living wage” ought to be sufficient to support every household. The reality of South Africa’s economy, with one of the highest unemployment rates in the world, requires us to seriously rethink…

Aug 29, 2024 Buzz

SA Autoweek 2024 A Journey Through Time as we Celebrate 100 Years of Auto

“SA AUTO WEEK 2024 WILL CELEBRATE 100-YEARS OF AUTOMOTIVE HERITAGE, PASSION, RESILIENCE AND INGENUITY” In the heart of Cape Town, where mountains kiss the African sky and the two oceans whisper secrets, a new dawn breaks for South Africa’s automotive heritage. As the sun rises on October 15th, the Cape Town International Convention Centre [CTICC] will hum with the echoes of a century of…

Aug 29, 2024 Buzz

Goodyear Tyres: EV Ready technology driving the pace of innovation

Goodyear has pushed the boundaries of tyre technology and development for over 125 years. Now, with the widespread adoption of electric vehicles, a new chapter of Goodyear’s innovation is in full swing. Today, Goodyear’s latest generation tyres, including Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6, UltraGrip Performance 3 and Vector 4Seasons Gen-3, are designed for use on the latest generation of EVs, with a range of…

Aug 28, 2024 Buzz

Alfa Romeo Junior wins Design Trophy in Germany

Recently presented to the international press, the new Alfa Romeo Junior has gained the first acknowledgement of its design through a survey completed by readers of the specialist German magazine AUTO ZEITUNG. The new compact sports car has won the Design Trophy, an award for the best design in the “Small Cars/City Cars/Compacts” category. A total of 63 competing models were in the running. The…

Aug 28, 2024 Buzz

Water conservation awareness is key to sustainability

Volkswagen Group Africa commemorates World Water Week this week with an awareness campaign aimed at encouraging employees to be more mindful of their water usage. During National Water Month in March, the South African government highlighted that the average South African consumes 237 litres of water per day, significantly higher than the global average of 173 litres per day. Despite this, South…

Aug 28, 2024 Buzz

Ford Wildlife Foundation – Empowering the Preservation of the Environment for Future Generation

“I dream of an Africa which is in peace with itself. I dream of the realization of the unity of Africa, whereby its leaders combine in their efforts to solve the problems of this continent. I dream of our vast deserts, of our forests, of all our great wildernesses. We must never forget that it is our duty to protect this environment.” – Nelson Mandela. Madiba, the learned and much-loved statesman…

Aug 27, 2024 Buzz

Transformative Automotive Cluster South Africa (TACSA) Launches Pilot Project to Elevate Informal Workshops in South African Townships

The Transformative Automotive Cluster South Africa (TACSA) proudly announces the launch of its pilot project dedicated to transforming informal workshops into fully functional automotive service centres in South African townships. This landmark event aims to address the critical skills shortage in the township automotive aftermarket sector, thereby driving economic growth and improving service…

Aug 27, 2024 Buzz

AAG 2024 kicks off this week, driving the automotive industry in the Greater Bay Area towards an innovative future

Auto Aftermarket Guangzhou (AAG) 2024 will take place at the Poly World Trade Expo Center (PWTC Expo) in Guangzhou from 28 to 30 August. Rooted in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (Greater Bay Area), AAG has firmly established itself as an annual event for South China’s automotive aftermarket industry, converging global industry peers to explore the market opportunities. This…

Aug 27, 2024 Buzz

Empowering South Durban: Engen computer skills course helps secure employment for locals

Another 70 South Durban residents have graduated from the Engen Community Computer School after completing a four-month training programme that equips them with essential computer skills to enhance their employability. The graduation ceremony, held on 23 August at the Blue Roof Life Space in Wentworth, celebrated the achievements of the second cohort of 2024 graduates (73 graduated in May) and…

Aug 27, 2024 Buzz

Let’s steel ourselves for ArcelorMittal reality check

If you have an interest in what is happening in the Steel Industry, the effect of Government's protection of ArcelorMittalSA and the impact thereof on the Steel Downstream, this article is a must read (Gerhard Papenfus). What is the point of protecting, at great cost to consumers, a rickety primary steelmaker? By Peter Bruce If you’re looking for a politician or a policy think-tank stuck in the…

Aug 26, 2024 Buzz

Banks Act gives Prudential Authority unconstitutional powers over banks

The 1990 Banks Act stipulates how registered banks must conduct their business of taking deposits from the public. The Banks Act also prohibits the conducting of banking business by anyone who is not registered as a bank. The Act declares that contraventions of and failures to comply with any of its manifold requirements are criminal offences. The Banks Act creates over 150 criminal offences. No…

Aug 26, 2024 Buzz

An extraordinary Dunlop Road awaits Festival of Motoring visitors

Dunlop will once again celebrate its premium range of tyres and racing successes at the annual Festival of Motoring at Kyalami over the weekend of 30 August to 1 September 2024. To that end, South Africa’s favourite tyre brand has something really special and unique up its sleeve for showgoers at the Grand Prix Circuit this year. “We are excited to announce that Dunlop will host something…

Aug 26, 2024 Buzz

DASHING AND DARING – Newly appointed Jetour South Africa Vice President highlights the brand's commitment to delivering affordable luxury with a strong focus on customer…

In a market characterised by intense competition and financial constraints, introducing a new brand of SUV is daring, but newly appointed Vice President for Jetour in South Africa, Nic Campbell, says that the brand is poised to establish a new standard of excellence in the local automotive industry. Campbell has been in the motoring trade for over 14 years, with extensive experience working with…

Aug 26, 2024 Buzz

Why business needs to partner with training institutions to develop entrepreneurial skills!

It is clear that we are during an ever-growing unemployment crisis which, given the economic challenges being faced by our country, certainly shows little signs of improving in the near future. One of the only ways we can bring people into the economic hub and give them a chance to not only survive but thrive, to the extent that they can assist in the growth of the nation, is through the…

Aug 26, 2024 Buzz

Women of Ford: Driving Change

It gives us great pride to share the latest video from Ford SA's 'Our Ford Stories' video series, coinciding with Ford South Africa's centenary celebrations and Women’s month. We hope you find these stories as inspiring as we do. Each of these women represents the spirit of determination, innovation, and passion that drives Ford South Africa forward. As we celebrate our centenary, we are proud to…

Aug 23, 2024 Buzz

Meadowlands Technical High School to host first Motor Mech Competition in area

Well know local KZN Technical school, Meadowlands Technical high school which is based in the heart of Montford, is leading the way in skills development and next month on Saturday 14 September will be hosting, in conjunction with the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA) a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), the first Motor Mech competition in the KwaZulu…

Aug 23, 2024 Buzz

5th Import Duty Investigation Report Launch

XA Global Trade Advisors is launching its 5th Import Duty Investigation Report. In an upcoming webinar, they will debate the report's contents and discuss how reviewing these import duties could impact businesses. Donald MacKay and Anneke Jansen van Vuuren from XA will be joined by Francois Fouche (GIBS), Prof. Lawrence Edwards (UCT) and Meluleki Nzimande (partner at Webber Wentzel and former…

Aug 23, 2024 Buzz

Partners join upcoming Women with Drive

MasterDrive is proud to welcome four partners to the annual Women with Drive event. Each partner supports the initiative which focuses on empowerment and upliftment of women within the automotive and mobility sector. It is a privilege to welcome Castrol, FNB, Messe Frankfurt and MUA as partners to ‘Women with Drive – ALIVE!’ The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says: “The interest and support…

Aug 23, 2024 Buzz

APAC automotive tyres and wheels market to expand at 1.7% CAGR over 2024-29, forecasts GlobalData

Due to the increasing number of vehicles produced, constant technological advancements and innovations, the market volume for tyres and wheels has grown significantly over the years. However, as the innovations made tyres sturdier and reduced the occurrence of flat tyre scenarios, the demand for spare wheels has decreased, negatively impacting the sector and lowering the overall market growth.…

Aug 23, 2024 Buzz

Employment Equity Submission | Do not compromise on merit-based employment practices

As per our previous communique, designated employers must submit their 2024 EE reports from 1 September 2024 to 15 January 2025, using the online system of the Department of Employment and Labour. Is your business ready for submission? Let NEASA assist your business in navigating the intricacies of the Employment Equity Act, including submitting your annual reports, ensuring your business…

Aug 23, 2024 Buzz

Walking Safely to School project launched in Mamelodi to keep learners safe on the road

Joint project to roll-out countrywide in coming years The Automobile Association (AA) and ChildSafe South Africa, supported by international road safety charity the FIA Foundation and its Child Health Initiative (CHI), today take a significant step towards improving road safety in Mamelodi, Tshwane through the launch of the Walking Safely to School (WATCH) project. The project is further being…

Aug 23, 2024 Buzz

Ogihara Thailand and Toyota Tsusho Africa Forge Joint Venture in South Africa to Boost Local Automotive Parts Manufacturing with Over R1.1 billion Investment

Toyota Tsusho Africa (TTAF), a subsidiary of Toyota Tsusho Corporation, in collaboration with Ogihara (Thailand) Corporation (OTC) and Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM), are proud to announce the formation of a new joint venture, Ogihara South Africa (OSA). The announcement was made at a ground-breaking event that took place at the construction site at Dube Trade port in Durban. The event was…

Aug 23, 2024 Buzz

Irregular medical certificate: Employee not responsible for doctors' misconduct

In the recent judgment of Woolworths (Pty) Ltd v CCMA and others, the Labour Appeal Court (LAC) confirmed an important legal principle regarding irregular medical certificates. The LAC confirmed that an irregular medical certificate does not automatically implicate an employee in dishonesty. In order to fairly dismiss an employee for dishonesty, or for submitting a fraudulent medical certificate,…

Aug 23, 2024 Buzz

Suzuki takes up road safety baton with much-needed campaign

The Suzuki Grand Vitara is gearing up for a brand-new challenge: conquering road safety awareness. To do this, Suzuki Auto South Africa has partnered with FleetMax Africa to develop a special road-safety curriculum called DriveSMART with Suzuki campaign that it will broadcast across their social media channels. “Every year, more than 14 000 people die on South Africa’s roads and many thousands…

Aug 23, 2024 Buzz

May South Africa become known for its widespread individual liberty

By Eustace Davie, a Director of the Free Market Foundation and author of Unchain the child. Creating Prosperity and Freedom for future generations in South Africa Together with supporting individual liberty in general, South Africans should provide an environment that will encourage the growth of a robust and peaceful society. To achieve such an aim from which everyone will benefit, the policies…

Aug 23, 2024 Buzz

Young Talent shines at Daniel Pienaar – a magnificent weekend

Emotions were high and talent in abundance as 20 young students – four students each from five Eastern Cape schools - battled it out on Saturday, 17 August to see who would be victorious in this year’s highly contested Motor Mech Competition. The schools represented included Daniel Pienaar Technical High School in Kariega, Port Rex Technical High School in East London, Newton Technical High…

Aug 22, 2024 Buzz

The ‘torque’ of the town: Bolt and Engineering Distributors and Bolt Torque’s new distribution agreement to boost bolting

Bolt and Engineering Distributors (B.E.D.) Group is very pleased to announce its new distribution agreement with torque and tensioning company Bolt Torque, which has a comprehensive range of manual, hydraulic, electric and battery bolt torque and bolt tensioning solutions. This strategic partnership, announced just ahead of Electra Mining 2024, where Bolt Torque and their principals, PLARAD®…

Aug 22, 2024 Buzz

NADA welcomes potential interest rate cut amid lower inflation and fuel prices

The National Automobile Dealers' Association (NADA) is encouraged by the recent decline in South Africa's annual consumer price inflation to 4.6% in July, the lowest level in three years. This drop, combined with the recent decrease in fuel prices, signals a positive economic shift expected to benefit consumers and businesses nationwide. “For consumers, a potential interest rate cut by the South…

Aug 22, 2024 Buzz

Daimler Truck Southern Africa celebrates the assembly and hand over of the 800,000th Mercedes-Benz Trucks CKD-Kit Ex Woerth in East London

On 12 August 2024, DTSA had the pleasure of officially rolling off the 800,000th Completely Knocked Down (CKD) unit, a Mercedes-Benz Actros 2645LS/33, from their assembly line. This occasion was not only a joint celebration for the East Londonbased DTSA manufacturing plant and its source plant in Woerth, but also a celebration with their loyal customers: Sesfigile Logistics and Safety One…

Aug 22, 2024 Buzz

Bakwena Drives Cancer Awareness in North West for Women’s Month

This year’s Women’s month coincides with the country’s commemoration of 30 years of freedom and democracy, marking an important time to reflect on the progress made in empowering women and advancing women’s rights. Bakwena N1N4 toll road reaffirmed its commitment to gender equality by partnering with PinkDrive and the North West Departments of Health & Education, bringing much needed cancer…

Aug 22, 2024 Buzz

NEASA Youth Development Program: Resources available!

NEASA Youth can assist you with the following junior resources: Click here if you are interested in hosting a student We look forward to partnering with you towards the development of South Africa’s youth. NEASA Youth is ready to assist you with any queries. Contact 012 332 5350 or send an e-mail to adele@neasa.co.za

Aug 22, 2024 Buzz

South Africa general insurance industry to surpass $11 billion in 2028, forecasts GlobalData

The South African general insurance industry is set to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.8% from ZAR181.5 billion ($9.8 billion) in 2024 to ZAR227.6 billion ($11.2 billion) in 2028, in terms of gross written premiums (GWP), forecasts GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company. GlobalData’s Insurance Database reveals that the South African general insurance industry is…

Aug 22, 2024 Buzz

“State-flation” to blame for prolonged high prices, interest rates

The Free Market Foundation (FMF) calls for a comprehensive repeal of various regulatory and legislative provisions which are increasing the costs of everyday goods and services in South Africa. This follows after Statistics South Africa (StatsSA) released the latest CPI figures for July 2024. Although inflation seems to be cooling, the FMF warns that there remain doubts regarding the longevity of…

Aug 22, 2024 Buzz

Opinion piece: Interlinking the supply chain with blockchain technology

Blockchain technology goes by many names; game-changer, disruptive, futuristic and impenetrable. Names all well-deserved and valid. Initially associated with cryptocurrency, blockchain has well and truly come into its own and now includes health, transportation, disaster recovery and importantly, supply chain management. Indeed, with its ability to create secure and transparent networks,…

Aug 22, 2024 Buzz

COIDA: Compensation Fund Assistance for employers

NEASA brings relief to employers by ensuring that employers are registered, categorised correctly and do not overpay on their Compensation Fund contributions, or where they have overpaid in the past, to ensure recovery of such overpayments and corrections going forward. NEASA urges employers to utilise these expert services, to ease the administrative and financial headaches of dealing with the…