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…

Aug 21, 2024 Buzz

Stellantis expands presence in Mpumalanga with few FIAT and Jeep® brand facility at Westvaal Nelspruit

Stellantis announces the expansion of its multifranchise dealer network with the introduction of FIAT and Jeep® brands at the Westvaal Nelspruit facility in Mpumalanga. This expansion strengthens our commitment to making these iconic brands more accessible to customers, offering a seamless and convenient experience. Westvaal Nelspruit, already home to Opel, Peugeot, and Citroën, continues to grow…

Aug 21, 2024 Buzz

Introducing Susan "Lele" Maduna: A Visionary Female Entrepreneur Redefining the Auto Repair Industry

Roodepoort, Johannesburg - In honor of Women's Month, we proudly introduce Susan "Lele" Maduna, a dynamic 35-year-old female entrepreneur and co-owner of the esteemed MTV Auto Group in Roodepoort, Johannesburg. MTV Auto Group, a distinguished Joint Venture auto repair and service center in South Africa, stands as a testament to Susan Maduna's vision and dedication to excellence in the automotive…

Aug 21, 2024 Buzz

SABOA Fleet Safety Awards 2024 launches

MasterDrive in association with the South African Bus Operators Association is proud to announce the SABOA Fleet Safety Awards will be taking place this year! Those operating bus fleets can enter either their organisations, fleet managers or operators for their dedication to promoting road safety. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, expands: “The Awards are an opportunity to reward…

Aug 21, 2024 Buzz

Opinion piece: The power of audits – enabling businesses to boost efficiency and stay responsible

Schneider Electric has a comprehensive Consulting Offering to help businesses identify and address gaps in their fundamental policies related to safety, sustainability, efficient operations, reliability, and proactivity. Schneider Electric aims to provide valuable insights and actionable recommendations to optimise business performance. Audits play a crucial role in assessing the current state of…

Aug 21, 2024 Buzz

Manufacturing Indaba 2024 to Address Latest Insights in African Manufacturing

The Manufacturing Indaba Conference and Exhibition, Africa’s premier manufacturing event, is set to return this year with a focus on the latest insights and developments in the African manufacturing sector. As the continent continues to position itself as a significant player in the global manufacturing landscape, this year's event will bring together industry leaders, policymakers, and investors…

Aug 21, 2024 Buzz

Trio of events add value to Futuroad Expo 2024

Messe Frankfurt South Africa has announced that three major industry events will be co-located with Futuroad Expo 2024, which takes place from 19-21 November at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg. Regional Logistics and Transport Conference This three-day conference, hosted by the South African and Zimbabwe Branches of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport, is a landmark event…

Aug 20, 2024 Buzz

naamsa releases quarterly review of business conditions for the South African motor vehicle manufacturing industry

Industry vehicle sales, export, and import statistics for 2015 through 2023, together with current projections for 2024 and 2025, are reflected on the attachment to the submission. KEY FEATURES: SECOND QUARTER 2024 Second quarter 2024 aggregate industry employment as at 30th June 2024 totalled 33,237 reflecting a decline of 137 jobs compared to the 33,374 industry head count as at the end of…

Aug 20, 2024 Buzz

Last call to register for SAPICS Spring Summit

The annual SAPICS Spring Summit for supply chain professionals will take place in Johannesburg on 29 August 2024. Organiser SAPICS (The Professional Body for Supply Chain Management) has announced that the deadline for registration is looming and urges supply chain professionals to attend this important industry event that will explore the latest trends, innovations and best practices in the…

Aug 20, 2024 Buzz

Enter the Fleet Safety Awards 2024 - Over R200,000 in Cash Prizes to be Won!

We are excited to announce that the Fleet Safety Awards are back for their third year, offering even greater recognition and rewards for excellence in road safety. With over R200,000 in cash prizes to be won, this is an opportunity you won't want to miss! Why enter the Fleet Safety Awards? Substantial Cash Prizes: Compete for a share of over R200,000 in cash prizes Industry Recognition: Showcase…

Aug 19, 2024 Buzz

How to develop South Africa’s economic outlook

South African policymakers learn all the wrong lessons from other countries. Rather than look to the free and prosperous societies of the United States and Europe, politicians and pundits would rather push us to imitate Russia, China, Venezuela, Cuba and Zimbabwe. And even when policymakers identify genuinely good role models, they take the wrong lessons. The Asian developmental states are used…

Aug 19, 2024 Buzz

Only the private sector can end Eskom’s diesel dependency and load-shedding

I think that many South Africans will agree with me when I express my profound surprise that Eskom has managed to keep the lights on for almost a month since election day. What everyone seemed to believe was a costly election ploy — suspending of load-shedding — has seemed to last quite a bit longer than expected. But we’re not out of the woods just yet. At the last count, by 25 April 2024, Eskom…

Aug 19, 2024 Buzz

Fastest-growing Brand O&J helps Chery crack Fortune Global 500

As the fastest-growing automotive brand globally, the remarkable performance of Brand O&J – the Chery Group division comprising the OMODA and JAECOO marques – has helped its parent company crack the prestigious 2024 Fortune Global 500 list. Based on its latest financial results, the Chery Holding Group featured on the 2024 Fortune Global 500 list, ranking in an impressive 385th position. As Brand…

Aug 19, 2024 Buzz

TEPA welcomes balanced stakeholder committee

The Tyre Equipment, Parts Association (TEPA), a constituent association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), congratulates Charl De Villiers, Chair of the Tyre Importers Association of SA (TIASA) and Nduduzo Chala, Managing Executive of the South African Tyre Manufacturers Conference (SATMC), on their appointments as Chair and Vice Chairman of the Waste Tyre Management Industry…

Aug 19, 2024 Buzz

Bolt Commits to Smart Mobility and Sustainable Urban Development

As Africa urbanises rapidly, the demand for innovative, sustainable, and resilient mobility solutions is more pressing than ever. Bolt, Africa's leading ride-hailing platform, is dedicated to addressing these needs through continuous investment in innovative mobility solutions, transforming urban transport across the continent. Sustainability, resilience, and innovation are the cornerstones of…

Aug 16, 2024 Buzz

Informal Workshop Webinar | Retrenchments | 19 September 2024

NEASA will be conducting an informal workshop webinar to ensure that business owners, managers, HR and IR managers are sufficiently trained in the practical and legal requirements for dismissals due to operational requirements. OBJECTIVES The objectives include providing delegates with an understanding of the: legislative framework; relevant parties involved; acceptable reasons for retrenchments;…

Aug 15, 2024 Buzz

WeBuyCars CEO upbeat on first 120 days of listing on the JSE

WeBuyCars (WBC) listed on the JSE on 11 April 2024 and recently celebrated 120 days since its initial public offering. CEO, Faan van der Walt reflects on what has changed within the organisation. As the company prepares for its first financial year as a listed entity, he is optimistic about the future and looks forward to sharing the company’s results. "Prior to our listing, as a subsidiary of a…

Aug 15, 2024 Buzz

SA should follow China in free markets and voluntary trade principles

Aug 15, 2024 Buzz

Women driving change in the glass industry

Determined women are making their mark in the automotive glass industry – with a little help from an innovative company. The slow but steady advance of women into previously male-dominated industries is a story of individual grit and ambition – but it’s also one that shows the power of innovative thinking from established players within that industry. Just such a scenario is currently playing out…

Aug 15, 2024 Buzz

SANCCOB Gqeberha opens newly renovated Home Pen Enclosure

On Tuesday, 13 August 2024, the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB), hosted a celebratory opening event with ISUZU MOTORS South Africa and various stakeholders to officially open their newly renovated Home Pen enclosure at its Gqeberha premises. The new home pen enclosure is an important feature as it houses 44 African penguins and one Cape Gannet that…

Aug 15, 2024 Buzz

TecAlliance Launches myITG App to Streamline ITG Interactions, Even Offline

TecAlliance, the leading expert for data management and processes in the independent automotive aftermarket, has launched the myITG App, that offers parts manufacturers a complete, up-to-date picture of membership and local structures of the international trading groups (ITGs) – anywhere, and even offline. Available for both iOS and Android, the app makes it easier to efficiently prepare meetings…

Aug 15, 2024 Buzz

South Africa’s vibrant dealer economy

The motor industry’s dealer network makes a massive contribution to the country’s fiscus It is easy to focus on the billion-rand investments in manufacturing plants made by car companies. It’s big news in big chunks and desperately needed foreign direct investment in a motor industry that is amongst the biggest contributors to Gross Domestic Profit (GDP) in the manufacturing sector. But those…

Aug 15, 2024 Buzz

TyreXpo Asia 2025 almost sold out six months in advance

Following on from the highly successful TyreXpo Asia 2024 Show in Bangkok in March this year and TyreXpo Asia 2023 in Singapore, Informa Markets will be staging their next powerful presentation to the international tyre market sectors next in Singapore between the 12th to 14th March 2025 at the Marina Bay Sands Convention Centre. TyreXpo Asia 2025 Show will take place in a different series of…

Aug 15, 2024 Buzz

Reconciliation and nation-building in South Africa – ANC-DA courtship – scrap BEE in return for an amnesty

There is a rare opportunity to right a lot of South Africa’s wrongs in one go. Corruption and unemployment are two major roadblocks. Permit me to explain how they can be simultaneously addressed within the current administration. I suggest an amnesty largely on the African National Congress (ANC’s) past wrongdoing in office in return for liberalisation of labour laws. This may be for a bit…

Aug 15, 2024 Buzz

Trio of events add value to Futuroad Expo 2024

Messe Frankfurt South Africa has announced that three major industry events will be co-located with Futuroad Expo 2024, which takes place from 19-21 November at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg. Regional Logistics and Transport Conference This three-day conference, hosted by the South African and Zimbabwe Branches of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport, is a landmark event…

Aug 14, 2024 Buzz

Axalta at Automechanika Frankfurt 2024 

Why are you present at Automechanika? As a leading global automotive repair and refinish partner, Axalta is dedicated to helping customers do business smarter. During the Automechanika show, Axalta will launch exciting new technology that connects the entire bodyshop like never before. With Automechanika bringing collision repair industry professionals together from all over the world, it is the…

Aug 14, 2024 Buzz

Employment Equity Amendment Act and Regulations | 2024 EE Reporting Period

Since the Employment Equity Amendment Act (EEAA) and its regulations have not come into operation yet, the Department of Employment and Labour has confirmed that the status quo in respect of reporting remains unchanged. Consequently, all designated employers must submit their 2024 EE reports using the current Act and regulations. This includes employers employing less than 50 employees but with a…

Aug 14, 2024 Buzz

Opinion piece: Beyond Women’s Month – what needs to be done to create a more inclusive energy landscape in South Africa

Women’s Month provides the ideal opportunity to celebrate the growing role of women in South Africa’s dynamic energy sector, and while significant strides have been made in recent years, there is still much room for improvement in achieving gender parity. Unfortunately, our celebration of Women’s Month and Women’s Day often becomes a cliché because while we talk about women and their…

Aug 14, 2024 Buzz

SATMC appointed to Government’s waste tyre management advisory committee

Calls for stronger regulation of second-hand tyres The South African Tyre Manufacturers Conference (SATMC), representing the four multinational tyre manufacturers with plants in South Africa, has welcomed its appointment to the Waste Tyre Management Industry Advisory Committee announced by Dr. Dion George, Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, in July. This committee will drive…

Aug 14, 2024 Buzz

Automechanika Johannesburg Road Show Successfully Concludes Across Six African Countries To Attract African Buyers To The Show

The Automechanika Johannesburg team has wrapped up a successful road show across six key African countries, aimed at engaging automotive aftermarket buyers and promoting the upcoming Automechanika Johannesburg trade show slated for 19th to 21st November 2024 at NASREC Johannesburg. The road show, strategically planned based on exhibitor feedback, covered the most requested destinations for…

Aug 14, 2024 Buzz

Now online: The new "Gateway to Automotive" content hub

Frankfurt am Main, 12.08.2024. Automotive experts can now find everything they need in one place: On the new information platform ‘Gateway to Automotive’, Messe Frankfurt's international industry hub for automotive topics. In addition to news and industry insights from renowned experts, the hub offers a comprehensive supplier directory and an event calendar. Hardly any other industry is currently…

Aug 12, 2024 Buzz

Best way to provide health care is to avoid NHI

No taxpayer-funded (national) health system anywhere in the world has ever succeeded in delivering on its promises. All of them, including those of wealthy countries such as the United Kingdom and Canada – the NHI role models – battle endlessly with escalating costs. Budget constraints limit the number of procedures undertaken annually, and shortages of doctors and nurses are common. Their…

Aug 12, 2024 Buzz

Chery debuts on Fortune Global 500

Chery joined yet another exclusive club, when the Chery Holding Group made its grand debut on the Fortune Global 500 list on 5 August. It ranked at the 385th position with a revenue of R720 billion. The Fortune Global 500 list ranks the top 500 companies globally based on their respective fiscal years. The list is compiled by the esteemed Fortune magazine. This is another impressive milestone for…

Aug 12, 2024 Buzz

Ford Celebrates Youth Innovation and Empowerment with Announcement of Enactus Champions and Ford C3 Winners for 2024

The annual Enactus National Exposition, a premier event for student entrepreneurs, has once again showcased the immense creativity and enthusiasm of its participants. This vital platform for learning, engagement and collaboration highlights how student-led projects and enterprises drive progress through entrepreneurial action. The event was held in Sandton in July, and brought together over 700…

Aug 12, 2024 Buzz

Citroën Club commemorates Bastile Day

The Citroën Club of South Africa was out in force on Sunday July 28 in celebration of Bastille Day at the Vintage and Veteran Club in Johannesburg. Held every year as close to the French national day as possible, it’s an opportunity for the marque’s diehard fans to show off their collections. Citroën Club Secretary Joyce le Roux took her 99-year-old 5Hp Mobile to the show, but it wasn’t the…

Aug 12, 2024 Buzz

Mercedes-Benz South Africa and the Kolisi Foundation Unite for Community Empowerment in the Eastern Cape

Mercedes-Benz South Africa (MBSA) proudly announces the partnership with the Kolisi Foundation. The partnership is a firm commitment to a shared vision and united purpose to see thriving and empowered communities in the Eastern Cape. Commenting on the partnership, Abey Kgotle, Executive Director: Human Resources & Corporate Affairs, Mercedes-Benz South Africa: “Beyond our core business…

Aug 12, 2024 Buzz

JAECOO is the proud official vehicle partner for EFC

JAECOO is pleased to announce its association with EFC as the official vehicle partner to Africa’s premier mixed martial arts (MMA) organisation. As one of the fastest-growing entrants to South Africa’s new-vehicle market, JAECOO is a unique urban off-road SUV brand, with its debut model, the sleekly styled J7, offering outdoor-loving customers more toughness than a typical urban SUV yet more…

Aug 12, 2024 Buzz

How private initiatives are transforming South Africa’s health care landscape

Whilst the government struggles to provide quality health care in South Africa, the free market has stepped in. Over the past 10-15 years, private health care initiatives have emerged and flourished to meet the needs of an underserved portion of the population. Prevented from belonging to low-cost benefit schemes by senseless legislation, citizens are choosing to pay out of pocket for emergency…

Aug 08, 2024 Buzz

Taking responsibility: Nobody is coming to ‘rescue’ South Africa

There is something simultaneously scary and empowering about realising that there is nothing and nobody out there who is coming to ‘save’ us, and that this responsibility rests squarely on our shoulders. This is a responsibility to be eagerly embraced, even if it is costly. This is something South Africans need to realise now that the political opposition has been decimated. The Democratic…

Aug 08, 2024 Buzz

Toyota South Africa Motors helps save the rhinos

Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM), in collaboration with the Pilanesberg Wildlife Trust, recently executed a large-scale dehorning initiative at Pilanesberg National Park. To safeguard the rhino population, anti-poaching units must be both visible and mobile. In recent years, TSAM has donated vehicles, covered all service costs, and partnered with Monitor dealers to refurbish additional vehicles.…

Aug 07, 2024 Buzz

Vehicle sales a lifelong calling for ordained pastor

Devout Christian Duncan Mbhele knows what it is to answer a calling, which is why he has found solace in the motor industry on several occasions. Every time the twice-ordained pastor has decided to step away from the sector, he has been drawn back in – not quite kicking and screaming, but certainly not of his own accord. “I always wondered why God kept calling me. I had to dig deeper to…

Aug 06, 2024 Buzz

FIAT takes blanket approach to combatting SA winter

The Fiat Fiorino has a load volume of 2,5m3, just enough to deliver all the blankets collected by FIAT dealers to keep those in need a little warmer this winter. As FIAT celebrates its 125th anniversary globally, Stellantis South Africa and its FIAT dealers set out to give back, packing Fiat Fiorinos on their showroom floors with blanket donations from their staff, the surrounding communities,…

Aug 06, 2024 Buzz

Everything you need to know about automotive glass

Get the inside track when you’re replacing windscreens or windows. By Gary Stieger, Managing Director at My Glass Replacing automotive glass, be it windscreen or side window, is not something one has to do often – hopefully never, because it’s usually associated with a traumatic experience like an accident or a smash and grab. But when it is necessary, it needs to be done quickly and done right,…

Aug 06, 2024 Buzz

Cannabis in the workplace

Cannabis in the workplace Karlien Lourens — August 6, 2024 In the case of Enever v Barloworld Equipment South Africa, A Division of Barloworld South Africa (Pty) Ltd (JA86/22) [2024] ZALAC 12 (23 April 2024) In the case of Enever v Barloworld Equipment South Africa, A Division of Barloworld South Africa (Pty) Ltd (JA86/22) [2024] ZALAC 12 (23 April 2024), an employee of Barloworld Equipment South…

Aug 06, 2024 Buzz

Politics and power – focus on South African trade unions COSATU, SADTU and FEDUSA

Gargantuan and tyrannical unions like the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU), South African Democratic Teachers Union (SADTU), and National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) have leveraged their power, numbers, money, and capacity to threaten violence, and in so doing hold the economy hostage. They only care about their selfish, personal agenda, lobbying for policies that…

Aug 06, 2024 Buzz

How Ford’s Robot Helpers Ensure Each Ranger Door is Weatherproof

Working shoulder-to-shoulder with workers on the door assembly line at Ford Thailand Manufacturing are two cobots (collaborative robots) responsible for the installation of weatherproof shields into Ranger doors, a process requiring pin-point accuracy, strength, and dexterity. This process does not replace employees but allows operators to use their time more efficiently on complex tasks, like…

Aug 06, 2024 Buzz

The Strategic Value of Pursuing an Occupational Certificate through TVET Colleges

In the landscape of South Africa’s evolving educational framework, Occupational Certificates offered by TVET Colleges represent a pivotal pathway towards addressing critical skills shortages and enhancing employability. This analysis delves into the benefits and advantages of embracing vocational training in today’s competitive job market. Understanding Occupational Certificates and TVET Colleges…

Aug 06, 2024 Buzz

OMODA supports SA athletes with clever #PassTheTorch campaign

OMODA South Africa has launched a clever new #PassTheTorch social-media campaign in support of local athletes currently competing in France at one of the world’s largest sporting events. The unique online initiative calls for OMODA brand ambassadors, as well as OMODA O-CLUB friends and influencers, to pass between them a flame-themed OMODA C5 vehicle. Featuring an eye-catching orange-and-black…

Aug 06, 2024 Buzz

VW Community Trust empowers communities through NPO support

The Volkswagen Community Trust proudly announced the disbursement of R800 000 in funding to several registered non-profit organisations (NPOs). These NPOs cover a diverse range of initiatives, including youth development, sports, and social support programmes. Volkswagen Group Africa Corporate and Government Affairs Director, Nonkqubela Maliza, highlighted the Trust's dedication to meeting the…

Aug 05, 2024 Buzz

WesBank introduces residential solar finance

WesBank has added residential solar finance to its offerings, extending its product mix beyond vehicle and leisure finance solutions and giving personal clients in South Africa access to a credit facility to finance the installation of solar solutions at their homes. Depending on their affordability level and credit score, customers can qualify for WesBank solar finance of between R65 000 and…

Aug 05, 2024 Buzz

Screaners put the brakes on used car scams

Buying a used car can be a risky decision, but it often beats experiencing the depreciation of a new car's value the moment you drive it off the lot. Finding the sweet spot where a car is still new enough to have modern features while not losing too much value can be tricky, especially with scammers waiting to catch you off guard. From turning back odometers and faking warranty plans and service…

Aug 05, 2024 Buzz

Suzuki Auto raises vital concerns around GNCAP report and release

Suzuki Auto South Africa has noted the significant discrepancies in Wednesday’s #SaferCarsForAfrica report as issued by the Global New Car Assessment Programme (GNCAP) in partnership with the Automobile Association of South Africa (AASA) with great concern. The #SaferCarsForAfrica programme is an independent initiative administered by the AASA and is done with limited involvement from the OEM of…

Aug 05, 2024 Buzz

Opel hosts inaugural tri-city SA Padel challenge

Opel South Africa held its first ever Grandlands Slam – a one-day Padel challenge that led to champions being crowned in Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg after a fierce four-hour challenge. The sport, which originated in Mexico, has taken South Africa by storm since it was first introduced here three years ago. Today there are hundreds of courts across South Africa’s major centres and Opel has…

Aug 05, 2024 Buzz

Minor but welcome fuel decreases expected for August

Although minor, fuel decreases are expected across the board for August says the Automobile Association (AA), who was commenting on unaudited data from the Central Energy Fund (CEF). According to the CEF data, 95ULP is expected to drop by around 14 cents/litre, and 93ULP by around 9 c/l. The wholesale price of diesel is expected to decrease by around 26c/l and the cost of illuminating paraffin by…

Aug 05, 2024 Buzz

Chery owners the real champions at Paris football match

A select group of Chery owners was treated to a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, when Chery hosted them as VIPs at a Mens’ Olympic Football match on 30 July at the Parc des Princes in Paris. This elite group of supporters was selected by Chery from around the globe to view teams participating at the highest level of the world’s most beautiful game at the world’s premier sporting event. This once…

Aug 05, 2024 Buzz

SA market leader Engen celebrates 700th Quickshop & Co milestone

Engen, South Africa’s biggest fuel and convenience retailer, opened its 700th Quickshop & Co store at Engen Summit Convenience Centre in Midrand on 1st August 2024. Located at 386 Olifantsfontein Rd, Engen Summit is designed to serve the early risers, the late-night cravers and the busy bees navigating life's hectic schedules. Operating 24/7, the site’s convenience bouquet includes: Quickshop…

Aug 05, 2024 Buzz

Championing liberty: The essence of market liberalism

By James Peron, president of the Moorfield Storey Institute and author of several books, including Exploding Population Myths and The Liberal Tide. He is a Free Market Foundation Associate. Market liberalism establishes a basic principle for how people should deal with one another: all interaction should be by mutual consent. Each individual is free to pursue their own happiness in a regime of…

Aug 02, 2024 Buzz

Much needed growth in July’s new vehicle sales

New vehicle sales received a long-awaited injection of positivity in July, showing growth effectively for the first time in nearly a year. According to data released by naamsa | the Automotive Business Council, the South African new vehicle market grew 1,5% year-on-year to 44,229 units. July sales were only the second month after April to show any growth since July 2023. The performance comes off…

Aug 02, 2024 Buzz

July sees positive turn in monthly retail new vehicle sales

"Finally, in July, we witnessed a positive shift in monthly retail new vehicle sales," commented Brandon Cohen, National Chairperson of the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA), following the release of the sales figures by naamsa | The Automotive Business Council today. "Although the increase was modest at 1.5% compared to the same month last year, the sale of 44,229 units is…

Aug 02, 2024 Buzz

Monterey Car Week 2024: Maserati set for world premiere of new super sports car

On Friday, August 16, in the setting of the traditional and unmistakable “The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering” event in California, Maserati is preparing to unveil its newest creation to the world. Resulting from the Trident's experience on track and dedicated to those who do not wish to sacrifice extraordinary performance on the road, this new car guarantees innovative technological solutions and…

Aug 02, 2024 Buzz

ISUZU Motors South Africa appoints new Commercial Vehicle Marketing Communications Specialist

ISUZU Motors South Africa (IMSAf) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mo Ebrahim as the new Marketing Communications Specialist for Commercial Vehicles and Aftersales . "We are excited to welcome Mo to our marketing team," says Ziphindiwe Ngcobo, Department Executive: Marketing at ISUZU. "His invigorating approach to sales and dealer development, combined with his passion for the automotive…

Aug 02, 2024 Buzz

naamsa Releases July 2024 New Vehicle Sales

Reflecting on the new vehicle sales statistics naamsa | The Automotive Business Council said that the welcomed uptick in the July 2024 aggregate new vehicle sales figures could be the turning point for an improved second half of the year performance. Aggregate domestic new vehicle sales in July 2024, at 44,229 units, reflected an increase of 657 units, or a gain of 1,5%, from the 43,572 vehicles…

Aug 01, 2024 Buzz

ISUZU Motors South Africa: Honouring Nelson Mandela’s life Through Education and Community Upliftment

ISUZU Motors South Africa (ISUZU) and its partners have joined the world in honouring the legacy of Tata Nelson Mandela with impactful initiatives through its ISUZU CARES; I CARE TOO employee volunteerism program, donating 200 school desks, establishing a garden, painting classrooms, reading and encouraging play. ISUZU takes advantage of the whole of July to celebrate Nelson Mandela’s life and…

Aug 01, 2024 Buzz

DA must stop NHI in its tracks

While the Democratic Alliance (DA) has not been given the position of Minister of Health, it should still leverage any power or influence it can to stop the ill-fated National Health Insurance (NHI) in its tracks. NHI has been touted as a silver bullet to fix South Africa’s disastrous public healthcare system by turning the government into a single, universal healthcare payer. But supporters of…

Aug 01, 2024 Buzz

TecAlliance to Showcase Innovations in E-Commerce and Data Management at Automechanika Frankfurt 2024

TecAlliance, the leading expert for data management and processes in the automotive aftermarket, will present its innovative solutions to enhance efficiency, accuracy and profitability at Automechanika Frankfurt from 10 to 14 September 2024 in Hall 3.0 at Booth B50. TecAlliance will feature a second booth in the eBay E-Commerce Lounge in Hall 2.0, Booth C51J, to showcase its proven solutions that…

Aug 01, 2024 Buzz

WCWL continues to spread the cheer

Chery continues to add more and more charitable causes to its roster under its With Chery With Love (#WCWL) programme. For its latest initiative, the Chinese brand mobilised dealers, head office staff and international team members to collect and distribute food and clothing to Mother of Peace, a group of orphanages with homes in Northriding and Illovo in Gauteng and Mutoko in Zimbabwe. “Mother…

Aug 01, 2024 Buzz

Ford and Nelson Mandela Foundation Hand Over 27 ECD Centres as Part of Centenary CSR Project

Early childhood development (ECD) in disadvantaged areas of South Africa is taking centre stage during Mandela Month with the handover of the first batch of 27 newly constructed ECD centres by Ford South Africa in partnership with the Nelson Mandela Foundation and the Department of Basic Education. This legacy CSR project forms part of Ford’s Centenary celebrations in South Africa, with a total…

Aug 01, 2024 Buzz

GWM wins the global market with differentiated competition

Recently, the performance of GWM has been very remarkable. While maintaining rapid growth in overseas sales, the profit growth brought by high-value models shows that its differentiated overseas market strategy has broad prospects. Data shows that GWM sold 201,500 vehicles overseas from January to June, with a year-on-year growth of 62.59%. In June, 38,104 vehicles were sold overseas, achieving a…

Aug 01, 2024 Buzz

First Battery sets industry standard with 96% recyclable lead-acid batteries, leading the charge in environmental sustainability

First Battery leads the green energy sector with its new range of automotive lead-acid batteries which are 96% recyclable. This achievement showcases First Battery's strong commitment to sustainability and innovative energy solutions. The company’s state-of-the-art recycling facility in Benoni, Gauteng, is a cornerstone of its sustainability strategy. The facility features advanced technology to…

Aug 01, 2024 Buzz

Eurorepar: a new era of aftermarket care for Stellantis brands owners in South Africa

Eurorepar, a new independent aftermarket brand of Stellantis, has launched in South Africa. Initially designed to cater to the needs of Stellantis (Opel, Peugeot, the Jeep® brand, Citroën, Abarth, Alfa Romeo and FIAT) owners whose vehicles have surpassed the initial warranty and service plan period, Eurorepar offers a comprehensive range of high-quality, cost-effective parts and services. Price…

Jul 31, 2024 Buzz

Defender marks 70 years of its landmark humanitarian charity partnership with British Red Cross

Year of celebration: Defender celebrates one of the longest-standing charity partnerships of its kind in the world – Land Rover’s 70-year association with the British Red Cross Proven provenance: Defender can trace its roots back to the first Series Land Rovers, which began working with the British Red Cross in 1954 Historical moment: Defender marks its anniversary with a new flagship project in…

Jul 31, 2024 Buzz

Stellantis celebrates dealer excellence

Stellantis South Africa has celebrated the performance of their dealer network, ranking winners across seven categories in addition to each of the brands. The Stellantis Dealer of the Year awards was hosted at Monte Casino against the backdrop of the company’s latest product introduction, the Citroën C3 Aircross. The event aims to celebrate the top dealers' unrelenting commitment to excellence…

Jul 31, 2024 Buzz

Special show offers exciting insights into the future of garages

To support car dealers and garages in particular in mastering the transformation, Automechanika is planning the special show 'Workshop of the Future' in close cooperation with the German Federation for Motor Trades and Repairs (ZDK) and the Future Workshop 4.0 of the Institute for Automotive Industry (IfA). On a total of 1,000 square metres in Hall 9, the trade fair visitors will be offered a…

Jul 31, 2024 Buzz

How the centre can hold and South Africa can thrive

Last year I wrote a 2034 optimistic time travel piece on SA; many saw it as naïve. 2023 was a hard year to be bullish on SA. The prevailing argument went that the higher stages of power outages made grid collapse and anarchy inevitable. The African National Congress (ANC) would steal the 2024 election and militarise the state, hanging on for infinity. And now we have the power crisis largely…

Jul 31, 2024 Buzz

Unleash your excellence: Enter the prestigious 2024 Pan African Supply Chain Awards

The 2024 Pan African Supply Chain Awards, the most esteemed event in the calendar of supply chain professionals and organisations, is now open for entries. Taking place on 9 October 2024 at the Maslow Hotel in Sandton, Johannesburg, the Awards celebrate the best-in-class individuals and organisations on the continent, honouring exceptional achievement and innovation in the procurement and supply…

Jul 31, 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…

Jul 30, 2024 Buzz

Daimler Truck Southern Africa Appoints A New Leader for Mercedes-Benz Buses

Following the promotion of Jason Brunninger as the new Head of Sales and Marketing for Coaches in North America, DTSA is delighted to announce the appointment of Deon de Vries as the new General Manager for Mercedes-Benz Buses, effective 1 August 2024. In his newly appointed role, Deon will assume strategic leadership responsibilities across various critical areas, including Sales, Parts,…

Jul 30, 2024 Buzz

Now available in South Africa: the innovative Xtreme System from Standox

Fast and energy efficient with a proven track record of helping bodyshops increase their throughput Standox, one of Axalta’s premium Refinish brands, launched its innovative Xtreme System in South Africa at the beginning of July.The Xtreme Systemsets new standards for fast and energy-efficient car refinishing thanks to its proven track record of helping bodyshops to save energy and to increase…

Jul 30, 2024 Buzz

Your car will thank you for using the right engine oil

With people facing financial pressures, a new car has become an unaffordable luxury for many. But just because your car’s three- or five-year warranty has expired, you don’t need to replace it immediately with a new car and incur additional expenses, especially if your existing car has been well maintained and is still in acceptable working condition. Instead, using the right engine oil will help…

Jul 30, 2024 Buzz

Tiger Wheel & Tyre Celebrates Major Expansion with Six New Stores in Six Weeks

Tiger Wheel & Tyre today announced a remarkable milestone in its ongoing growth and expansion strategy. Over the course of just six weeks, the company will open six new stores across South Africa, showcasing its strength and commitment to serving motorists nationwide. Credited with reinventing the wheel and tyre retail and fitment experience, in its 57-year history Tiger Wheel & Tyre has become…

Jul 30, 2024 Buzz

Stellantis Pro One Market Share Leader in 3 Regions: Europe 30, South America and Middle East & Africa

In the first half of 2024, Stellantis Pro One captured the top spot (vs. 2023) in Europe 30 (EU 30), South America and now the Middle East & Africa region. The impressive results underscore Stellantis Pro One’s robust presence in global markets, aligning with the Company’s ambitious Dare Forward 2030 strategic targets. “Today’s results reflect the soundness of our commercial vehicles strategy,”…

Jul 30, 2024 Buzz

Doors open to global industry players exploring new opportunities driven by automotive mobility solutions at Automechanika Kuala Lumpur 2024

Malaysia’s leading automotive aftermarket trade fair, the 13th edition of Automechanika Kuala Lumpur is set to captivate the automotive industry from 1 to 3 August 2024. Spanning across 9,710 sqm of the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre in Hall 1 to 5, this year’s event will host 310 exhibitors from 19 countries and regions, showcasing the latest trends and new mobility solutions catered to the…

Jul 30, 2024 Buzz

Launching Women with Drive – ALIVE!

MasterDrive’s highly anticipated Women with Drive event is returning to the Festival of Motoring, for the third time, this year. The event will be called Women with Drive – ALIVE! It represents the dynamic, ever-evolving nature of business which is full of possibility for women in the industry. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says the company is proud to host Women with Drive for the…

Jul 30, 2024 Buzz

Ward proud to ‘gooi kole’ as he embraces small-town life

Locals say you cry twice when you move to Cradock – once when you arrive and once when you leave. Thankfully for Simon Ward, a 45-year-old father of four, he has yet to experience the phenomenon he knows all too well. The recently-appointed dealer principal of Kelston Toyota arrived in the Eastern Cape town five years ago. “Kelston and Cradock have both become close to my heart and I can’t think…

Jul 30, 2024 Buzz

UD Trucks Southern Africa in collaboration with SaferStops Association commemorates Nelson Mandela Day with free winter hampers for truck drivers

Through a meaningful collaboration to mark Mandela Day, on 25 July 2024, UD Trucks Southern Africa (UDTSA) and SaferStops Association (SSA) rolled up their sleeves to donate winter hampers to approximately 350 truck drivers at Vaal Truck-Inn Truck Stop - situated next to the N3. This initiative underscores UDTSA's unwavering commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and its dedication…

Jul 30, 2024 Buzz

Lexus Pop Classics 2024: an unforgettable night of musical excellence

Lexus Pop Classics, renowned for its prestigious music concerts, returns Saturday, 3 August at SunBet Arena, Pretoria for an enchanting celebration of popular music. The 2023 show production has been viewed on YouTube by 16 million connoisseurs of classic hits, and this year’s event is set to be an unforgettable celebration of talent, featuring a stellar lineup of seasoned favourites and exciting…

Jul 29, 2024 Buzz

Awards honour and celebrate the supply chain profession in Africa

The prestigious annual Africa Supply Chain Excellence Awards culminated in a gala event in Johannesburg at which the final winners were announced. Supply chain professionals from across the continent got together to recognise the outstanding achievements of organisations and individuals working in the field in Africa. Effective supply chains are the lifeblood of the global economy, connecting…

Jul 29, 2024 Buzz

Beware the traps of the “beneficiaries of Apartheid” narrative

The injustice known as Apartheid happened, and people did benefit from it. Care must however be taken when encountering this narrative in the discourse, because it has been weaponised in a fundamentally dishonest and opportunistic fashion that does not stand up to scrutiny. The cause of liberty was indisputably served when Apartheid was brought to an end. Decades of liberal advocacy against this…

Jul 29, 2024 Buzz

Tiger Wheel & Tyre Unveils New P.E. Store on Heugh Road

On 1 July 2024, SA’s favourite wheel and tyre retailer expanded its presence in the Windy City with the opening of a new Tiger Wheel Tyre store at the corner of Heugh Road and 3rd Avenue in Walmer, Gqeberha. To celebrate, the new store will run grand opening specials from 29 July to 3 August 2024, including an incredible offer where the first 50 customers will qualify to “Buy One Tyre, Get One…

Jul 26, 2024 Buzz

ISUZU Celebrates 45 Years of Local Bakkie Production with Limited Edition D-MAX 45

ISUZU Motors South Africa is celebrating its legacy of producing segment-defining ISUZU bakkies in the country over the past 45 years with the launch of the limited edition D-MAX 45, competitively priced at R906 100. Based on the seventh-generation D-MAX range, and specifically the 3.0 Ddi Double Cab LSE 4x4 Automatic derivative, the D-MAX 45 will be released in limited numbers from the end of…

Jul 26, 2024 Buzz

Currency fluctuations – how “political” is the South African Rand?

The fluctuation of the South African currency (the rand) in the period leading to the recent national and provincial elections and during the negotiations by political parties to form a Government of National Unity (GNA) has resulted in many wild and drunken speculations especially on social media. Some, like our newly appointed Minister of Sports, Arts & Culture, Gayton McKenzie and the radio…

Jul 26, 2024 Buzz

Time to innovate, transform and drive a sustainable future at the 20-year anniversary of Automechanika Shanghai in December

Automechanika Shanghai will celebrate two decades of serving the automotive service industry. The show’s influence reaches all corners of China and extends out to the global market, making it a must-attend event for information exchange, marketing, trade and education. This year, the show will pivot on innovations and transformations that drive a sustainable future, showcasing the latest…

Jul 26, 2024 Buzz

Manufacturing Indaba Announces STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP with TWIMS

The Manufacturing Indaba is proud to announce a collaborative partnership with The Toyota Wessels Institute for Manufacturing Studies (TWIMS). This strategic alliance aims to drive innovation, foster growth, and enhance the competitiveness of the manufacturing sector in Africa. TWIMS, renowned for its dedication to manufacturing education and research, will bring its extensive expertise and…

Jul 26, 2024 Buzz

One Equity Partners Invests in Comau to Foster Greater Growth in the Italian Industrial Automation Leader

Stellantis N.V., one of the world’s largest automakers and mobility providers, and One Equity Partners (“OEP”), a middle market private equity firm, today announced that OEP has signed a binding agreement to make a majority investment in Comau S.p.A. (“Comau”), a global technology company specializing in industrial automation and advanced robotics. The spinoff of Comau is part of the strategic…

Jul 25, 2024 Buzz

Concours of Elegance Germany to bring future classics to the Bavarian Alps

The Concours of Elegance Germany is proud to announce the introduction of the Future Classics class at this year’s event. Showcasing some of the most innovative and celebrated modern automobiles, the Future Classics class will offer a glimpse at the cars destined for iconic status. From the Ferrari SP2 Monza to the Porsche 918 Spyder, this extraordinary lineup of cars will take centre stage at…

Jul 25, 2024 Buzz

Fiat 500 becomes a way of life for South African superfan

As FIAT celebrates its 125th anniversary globally, one passionate South African fan is celebrating her own life – changed courtesy of a Fiat 500. Tanya O’Connor loves cars. She worked in the automotive sector for 25 years and raced Opel vehicles that she had modified at some of South Africa’s most legendary racetracks, including Tarlton, Zwartkops and Kyalami – but nothing can beat her Fiat 500.…

Jul 25, 2024 Buzz

SEMA statement on the democratic nominee for President of the United States

The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) appreciates the difficult task facing the Democratic Party as it begins its process of identifying a new nominee for President of the United States. While many issues will be weighed and considered with regards to the pool of emerging candidates, SEMA asks that the party identify and unite around a nominee whose values are in line with those of…

Jul 25, 2024 Buzz

The last 70 years are a lifetime of progress

I suspect it is pretty safe for me to assume most of you don’t really think of the year 1954. Even in the historical or newsworthy sense it isn’t very exciting. I only think about it because it is the year I was born. That isn’t earth-shattering or newsworthy. With my 70th birthday I thought I’d look at the progress of a lifetime—not my progress but global progress. In today’s political climate a…

Jul 25, 2024 Buzz

Quality and training could safeguard the future of the steel sector says the SAISC

There is no time like the present to address the ongoing concerns of quality and training in the steel value chain, according to Amanuel Gebremeskel, CEO of The Southern African Institute of Steel Construction (SAISC). As the custodian of steel industry knowledge and standards across Africa, the SAISC is calling for realistic planning. Gebremeskel explains: “We especially need to safeguard the…

Jul 24, 2024 Buzz

Volkswagen Group Africa’s employees show hands for charity

The clinic in Kabah, one of Kariega’s oldest townships known for its history of extreme poverty, has received a significant revamp thanks to the efforts of the Volkswagen Community Trust and the employees of Volkswagen Group Africa. Through the employee volunteer programme, Show of Hands, employees and their loved ones are encouraged to participate in company-supported initiatives. Over the…

Jul 24, 2024 Buzz

BAIC SA Honors Nelson Mandela's Legacy of Community Service

BAIC SA paid tribute to Nelson Mandela's enduring legacy of giving back to the community by hosting an inspiring event at its Gqeberha plant. The company showcased its commitment to empowering young people and supporting local organisations, bridging the gap in skills development and empowering future leaders to explore career options in the engineering and automotive industry. Inspiring Future…

Jul 24, 2024 Buzz

Stellantis strengthens its grip on the Moroccan market with Sopriam acquisition, a subsidiary of the Al Mada Group

In a strategic move, Stellantis has announced a two-phase acquisition of Sopriam, a subsidiary of the Al Mada group. The initial phase involves immediate majority control, followed by the full acquisition of 100% of shares by early 2025. Stellantis will now directly handle the import and distribution of its Peugeot, Citroën, and DS Automobiles brands in Morocco, in addition to its existing brands…

Jul 23, 2024 Buzz

The BMW M FEST is back!

The original BMW M fan favourite – the BMW M FEST – returns to the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit from 25 – 27 October 2024. The world’s biggest BMW M FEST again promises a weekend of high-octane performances showcasing the latest BMW M models, live entertainment, food and drinks. For the first time, BMW South Africa introduces a special Friday preview programme at BMW M FEST that offers eager fans…

Jul 23, 2024 Buzz

Mitsubishi Motors SA graduates to Diamond status in aftersales performance

Mitsubishi Motors South Africa’s (MMSA) continuous prioritisation of customer service, customer retention and a positive brand image has resulted in the South African subsidiary receiving numerous awards as part of Mitsubishi’s annual global after sales business excellence programme. The local operation has received recognition from Mitsubishi Motors Middle East & Africa as part of the brands…

Jul 23, 2024 Buzz

TEPA participates in career awareness day to empower Deaf learners

South Africa currently faces a significant unemployment challenge, with people with disabilities experiencing even greater difficulty finding work. On the heels of Nelson Mandela International Day, a day dedicated to service and social justice, Tshiamo Keone, an organisation that specialises in career awareness development for people with special needs, held a Career Awareness Day for Deaf…

Jul 23, 2024 Buzz

Automechanika Innovation Awards: These companies are nominated

The race for the coveted Innovation Awards at Automechanika is entering its second round: it has now been decided which companies have been nominated for the awards. The decision was made by the 17-member international jury, which met in Frankfurt on 18 July. A total of 42 applicants have been shortlisted in nine categories. International experts from the automotive industry from Australia,…

Jul 23, 2024 Buzz

Sapics announces 2024 Spring Summit for supply chain professionals

The Professional Body for Supply Chain Management (SAPICS) has announced that its Spring conference takes place in Johannesburg on 29 August 2024. This event will explore the latest trends, innovations and best practices in the industry. The programme includes compelling presentations from the 46th annual SAPICS Conference which took place in Cape Town in June and saw more than 750 supply chain…

Jul 22, 2024 Buzz

National democratic revolution still on the agenda with GNU

It is understood that the government of national unity (GNU) was cobbled together in great haste, with a deadline approaching, under considerable pressure. Added to this is that there is an ideological divide between the participants, which will not readily be overcome. The resultant statement of intent is an inevitable compromise. And yet it lacks an essential piece of content, which a…

Jul 22, 2024 Buzz

AA welcomes announcement by President Ramaphosa on the fuel price review

The Automobile Association (AA) welcomes the announcement by President Cyril Ramaphosa last night that the Government of National Unity “… will look to expand the basket of essential food items exempt from VAT and undertake a comprehensive review of administered prices, including the fuel price formula, to identify areas where prices can be reduced”. The announcement by the President validates…

Jul 19, 2024 Buzz

Mercedes-Benz Vans South Africa Welcomes Natasha Jardim as New Managing Executive

Mercedes-Benz Vans South Africa is delighted to announce the appointment of Natasha Jardim as its new Managing Executive, effective 01 July 2024. Natasha Jardim succeeds Nadia Trimmel, who is moving to a new position within the Mercedes-Benz Group. Natasha Jardim, a seasoned professional within the Mercedes-Benz family, has been a key figure in the organisation since 2000. With a remarkable…

Jul 19, 2024 Buzz

MasterDrive combats hunger this Mandela Day

It has been 15 years since the launch of 67 minutes for Mandela Day. Since then, countless lives were changed and commitment to supporting those in need in our communities has extended beyond the 67 minutes of one day of the year. MasterDrive is proud to be one of the organisations that participates in this worthy initiative over the years. The theme of this years’ Mandela Day is ‘Combating…

Jul 19, 2024 Buzz

Toyota and the ACGL bring youth together for African Gaming Championship

Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) ignites a new era of esports with an electrifying partnership as the Crown Sponsor of the African Gaming Championship, in collaboration with the African Championships Gaming League (ACGL). Set against the backdrop of the University of Cape Town’s Sports Centre, this invite-only tournament promises thrilling competition among high school and university students…

Jul 19, 2024 Buzz

3D Printing Customized Automotive End-Parts with Heron AM: Reshaping Local Supply Chains to Deliver Unparalleled Efficiency and Production Quality

In the dynamic world of automotive manufacturing, the ability to produce custom components quickly and cost-effectively is a game-changer. Van Venrooy Utility Vehicles, a forward-thinking company specialized in custom-made vans and vehicles for various sectors such as healthcare, motorsports, information and recreation, has decided to integrate Caracol’s advanced large scale 3D printing robotic…

Jul 19, 2024 Buzz

Announcing the VMS Paint 24hrs of iLamuna: A New Chapter in the series with VMS Paint coming onboard as title sponsor

Following the phenomenal success of the Mischief 9hr Endurance Race in Cape Town, we are thrilled to announce the next exhilarating event in the Lemons Series: the VMS Paint 24hrs of iLamuna, powered by Insurisk, Dunlop Tyres, and Havoline. Set to take place from November 1-3, 2024, this race promises to be an unforgettable experience for racers and fans alike. Building on Success: The iLamuna…

Jul 19, 2024 Buzz

I.D.E.A. Inspects 200 Different Automotive Brake Discs with Zebra Technologies’ Machine Vision

Zebra’s Aurora Design Assistant software optimises quality assurance verification with accurate, repeatable inspections 24 hours a day Zebra Technologies Corporation (NASDAQ: ZBRA), a leading digital solution provider enabling businesses to intelligently connect data, assets, and people, today announcedthat I.D.E.A. S.r.l. (Intelligent Development Engineered Applications), the Italian partner…

Jul 19, 2024 Buzz

Stellantis Announces Successful Amendment and Maturity Extension of €12 Billion Syndicated Revolving Credit Facility

Stellantis N.V. announced that it has successfully extended the maturity and amended its syndicated revolving credit facility (“RCF”) of €12.0 billion, originally signed in July 2021. The syndicated credit facility includes a broad-based group of 29 banks from Europe, America and Asia. The RCF is structured in two tranches: €6.0 billion, with a three-year tenor (July 2027), and €6.0 billion, with…

Jul 18, 2024 Buzz

Right to remove illegal occupiers still exists but ACT FAST

By Jaco Swart, National Manager of the National Employers' Association of South Africa (NEASA). The Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) recently issued a judgment confirming the right of property owners to remove illegal occupiers of property, without the need to acquire a court order first. The SCA rejected arguments by the EFF that the right of property owners to remove unlawful occupiers without a…

Jul 18, 2024 Buzz

The education myth: Why degrees won’t solve unemployment

Education is not the silver bullet that will solve all of South Africa’s problems. It is too often pushed in the media, amongst politicians, and in schools themselves that the answer to poverty, unemployment and endemic lack of economic growth is more education. This is an overly simplistic notion that provides false hope to countless children, while not actually solving the real causes of…

Jul 18, 2024 Buzz

Philippe Krief appointed Chief Technology Officer of Renault Group

Renault Group is pleased to announce that as of September 1, Philippe Krief will be appointed Chief Technology Officer of Renault Group, in parallel with his current duties within the Alpine brand. He will take over from Gilles Le Borgne, who has been appointed to a strategic advisory role to the CEO. As Renault Group Chief Technology Officer, reporting to CEO Luca de Meo, Philippe will manage…

Jul 18, 2024 Buzz

AAG 2024 returns this summer to converge international industry players from the automotive aftermarket

China’s automotive aftermarket is experiencing robust growth as an upswing of the increased production and sales of cars, coupled with rising consumer demand for a diverse range of products and services. In response, the upcoming Auto Aftermarket Guangzhou (AAG) is set to support the industry’s expansion by providing full coverage of the supply chain. Taking place at the Poly World Trade Expo…

Jul 18, 2024 Buzz

Khosi Nkosi partners with OMODA to create stunning car-wrap designs

OMODA South Africa is delighted to announce an exciting new collaboration with highly acclaimed fashion brand Khosi Nkosi, a partnership that has given rise to a breath-taking series of vehicle-wrap designs to celebrate this innovative automaker’s first birthday in Mzansi. Founded in 2008 and known for its vibrant, contemporary designs that honour African heritage and culture, the Khosi Nkosi…

Jul 18, 2024 Buzz

Renault Group continues to grow thanks to its complementary brands

Renault brand The world’s best-selling French car brand The Renault brand reported a 2.0% increase in sales (787,223 vehicles) in first-half of 2024 compared with the same period in 2023, thanks to its success in Europe, where sales rose by 8.2% (535,238 vehicles). Outperforming a market that grew by 5.5%, the brand consolidated its position as Europe's third-ranking PC+LCV brand, primarily on…

Jul 18, 2024 Buzz

Our Ford Stories: Ford Family for Life - Ford Clubs

The video shines a spotlight on Ford’s vibrant and diverse car clubs across the country. It highlights the close-knit communities of passionate individuals who share a united loyalty to the Ford brand, and a love for its iconic nameplates. These clubs celebrate the various models that have made Ford a beloved brand over the years. From classic Mustangs, hot hatches, to the latest Rangers, members…

Jul 18, 2024 Buzz

Bakwena puts education first this Mandela Day

Mandela Day is an important day in South Africa where people are encouraged to lift a burden from others and make impactful changes in their communities. In honour of Nelson Mandela Day on 18 July when this day is celebrated, Bakwena N1N4 toll concessionaire, this year focussed on education. Supporting two schools along its route: Thuto Ke Matla in Groot Marico and Reebone Secondary School in…

Jul 17, 2024 Buzz

SEMA Fest Returns to Las Vegas Friday, November 8

BUILDING PASSION FOR MUSIC & CAR CULTURE Second annual event moves to the Las Vegas Convention Center with music performances from Cage the Elephant, Sublime, Fitz And The Tantrums and Petey Tickets on sale this Friday, July 19, via SEMAFEST.COM The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), producers of the SEMA Show, the major trade-only automotive aftermarket event held annually in Las…

Jul 17, 2024 Buzz

Using standardisation to bullet-proof your operational technology cybersecurity system

Internationally recognised cyber security standards could prevent attacks on OT tech using SCADA and PLS systems that carry significant safety risks and downtime risks South Africa is not being spared the scourge of cyberattacks on operational technology (OT) networks. As recently as June 22, the National Health Laboratory Service was hit by a ransomware attack that blocked communications between…

Jul 16, 2024 Buzz

The Journey to Paris 2024

Toyota’s ‘Start Your Impossible’ Global Marketing Campaign Continues To Spark Excitement For The Olympic And Paralympic Games. With a long-standing commitment to sports and a belief that no journey is taken alone, Toyota is once again behind more than 200 Olympic and Paralympic athletes around the world. The global “Start Your Impossible” campaign not only showcases how remarkable these athletes…

Jul 16, 2024 Buzz

2024 Venture Awards Celebrate Startups Partnering with Stellantis to Enhance Customer Experience

In a celebration of innovation and successful collaborations, Stellantis N.V. has honored seven top-performing technology startups with the third annual Stellantis Venture Awards. These awards highlight Stellantis’ commitment to delivering customer-centric technology and features, driving the Dare Forward 2030 vision of clean, safe and affordable mobility. “We are dedicated to creating…

Jul 16, 2024 Buzz

Transforming the glass industry… one satisfied customer at a time

Competition is finally introducing some much-needed disruption in the automotive glass fitment industry. Capitalism is all about competition, we are told, but all too easily industries imperceptibly settle down into accepted ways of doing things – until somebody comes along to upset the apple cart with new ways of thinking and doing. Gary Stieger, MD and Founder of My Glass, sees his company as…

Jul 15, 2024 Buzz

JLR to roll out FSC-certified natural rubber tyres across its luxury vehicles

JLR has joined forces with global tyre manufacturer Pirelli in a global automotive industry-first commitment to use FSC-certified natural rubber tyres across its range of modern luxury vehicles. The luxury car manufacturer will be the first to adopt FSC-certified tyres at scale, transitioning all tyres from Pirelli across its entire portfolio, debuting on the new Range Rover Electric. The…

Jul 15, 2024 Buzz

Hino gets record high score in dealer satisfaction survey

Hino South Africa made history at the 2024 Dealer Satisfaction Index award ceremony when it won a Platinum award for the sixth successive year and this time it was the first company to be given a rating of more than 90% by its dealer network. This annual survey has been conducted with franchised commercial vehicle dealers by the National Automobil Dealers’ Association (NADA) since 2008. “The DSI…

Jul 15, 2024 Buzz

Automechanika Kuala Lumpur 2024 spotlights advancements in automotive mobility solutions

Malaysia’s new vehicle sales grew by eight percent to 260,236 units in the first four months of 2024 compared to the corresponding period of last year[1]. To keep pace with the market development, the upcoming edition of Automechanika Kuala Lumpur, taking place from 1 to 3 August, will showcase a variety of cutting-edge automotive solutions, products and services across near 10,000 sqm from Hall…

Jul 15, 2024 Buzz

Minister Dean Macpherson to Address The Infrastructure Africa Business Forum

The Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Mr Dean Macpherson (MP) will on Tuesday, 16 July 2024, deliver the keynote address at the 2024 Infrastructure Africa Business Forum at the Cape Town International Convention Centre in Cape Town. Convened under the theme “ Bringing you the Business of Infrastructure Development in Africa ”, Infrastructure Africa will connect industry stakeholders,…

Jul 12, 2024 Buzz

All eyes turn to the cradle of modern civilisation as Daring Africa 2024 prepares for Egypt

Daring Africa 2024, Nissan’s overland adventure across eight countries with four Nissan Navara pick-ups and an X-Trail SUV, is preparing for the eighth and final leg of the odyssey, joining Nissan’s LCV manufacturing hub in South Africa and the company’s PV assembly plant in Egypt. To date, Daring Africa has covered 7 000kms across seven countries giving more than 80 local journalists immersive…

Jul 12, 2024 Buzz

Explore the Future of AI in the Aftermarket

Let’s Talk Artificial Intelligence Our monthly webinar series covers the most critical topics impacting the automotive aftermarket, giving you unlimited access to expert insights. This series also provides a sneak peek into what AAPEX 2024 has in store. Each webinar is free to attend and available on demand through AAPEX Education Online. Join us for July’s webinar with Tilak Kasturi, Founder…

Jul 12, 2024 Buzz

Supa Quick supports Wheel Well’s Halo Beanie initiative for Mandela Day

To celebrate Mandela Day this year, Supa Quick has sponsored 50 packs of wool which will be made into 1 000 reflective beanies for children. This initiative, called Halo Beanies, is the brainchild of Wheel Well, the charity focused on children’s safety on the road of which Supa Quick is a long-time supporter. Wheel Well’s Founder, Peggie Mars, says that pedestrians are particularly vulnerable on…

Jul 12, 2024 Buzz

Stellantis SA shows youth the pathway to an automotive career

Stellantis South Africa hosted 44 members of the SOS Children’s Villages at the corporate headquarters in Midrand today to introduce them to possible careers in the automotive industry. Accompanied by 14 staff members from the homes, many of them former residents themselves, the children were able to see Stellantis’s full range of seven brands that are sold and supported in South Africa as well…

Jul 12, 2024 Buzz

Communities must prepare for MK unrest

Despite its incredibly successful electoral debut Jacob Zuma’s uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK) is refusing to embrace the reality of the elections. The grand irony of the MK’s refusal to accept the election results is that if there was skulduggery, it was more likely to have been performed by MK itself, as its rhetoric and party culture suggests a level of arrogance and willingness to use violence to…

Jul 11, 2024 Buzz

OMODA stuns as official vehicle partner of Hollywoodbets Durban July

OMODA South Africa showcased its wares as the official vehicle partner of the prestigious Hollywoodbets Durban July in KwaZulu-Natal at the weekend, captivating the event’s glamourous attendees with both its futuristically designed stands and its distinctively styled vehicles. Race 2 of South Africa’s premier horseracing event – which dates all the way back to 1897 and is held annually on the…

Jul 11, 2024 Buzz

Mscsports Facilitates Inaugural Toyota Cup in Partnership with Kaizer Chiefs and Toyota SA

Mscsports proudly announces its pivotal role in facilitating the inaugural Toyota Cup, a groundbreaking partnership between Kaizer Chiefs Football Club and Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM). This landmark tournament underscores Mscsports' expertise in crafting impactful sports sponsorship strategies. Carrie Delaney, Managing Director of Mscsports, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration,…

Jul 11, 2024 Buzz

Continental Survey Shows: Farmers Want A Sustainable Transformation

Farmers want to work on sustainable farms and are committed to using resource-saving solutions. These are the findings of the “Agriculture in Transition” study conducted by Continental together with the market research institute Innofact AG in the fall of 2023. 503 farmers from five countries were asked about their daily work, their concerns and challenges. The first results of the study were…

Jul 11, 2024 Buzz

Gold Status: Testimony to a thriving brand

Mahindra has distinguished itself as one of only seven automotive brands that achieved Gold Status in the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Dealer Satisfaction Index (DSI) Report. Every year, NADA and its research partner, Lightstone Auto, evaluate vehicle manufacturers’ relationships with their dealers. This is very often a reflection of the brand’s service levels to customers and…

Jul 11, 2024 Buzz

Standard Bank fuels Motus’ growth ambitions with GBP150 million multi-currency facility

Standard Bank is proud to announce that it has successfully refinanced and upsized a multi-currency facility for Motus to the value of GBP150 million. 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 selected international offering in the United Kingdom, Australia, Asia and Southern…

Jul 10, 2024 Buzz

NEASA Skills Training: Training August 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…

Jul 09, 2024 Buzz

Stellantis awarded Most Improved for dealer satisfaction in NADA DSI

Stellantis South Africa has been awarded Most Improved in the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Dealer Satisfaction Index (DSI) for having the most-improved relationship with their dealer network over the past 12 months. The award was received by Stellantis at a ceremony hosted by sponsors WesBank. The intensive DSI survey forms a vital link in the relationship between dealers and…

Jul 09, 2024 Buzz

Mitsubishi Motors SA secures fourth Gold status at NADA DSI awards

Mitsubishi Motors South Africa has recorded another impressive performance in the latest National Automotive Dealer Association (NADA) Dealer Satisfaction Index, scoring a Gold status award for the fourth year in a row. The NADA Dealer Satisfaction Index has been measuring dealer’s satisfaction with their various OEM brands since 1996 with Lightstone responsible for conducting the research since…

Jul 09, 2024 Buzz

Beware of tax season scammers

As the 2024 tax season officially gets underway and provisional and non-provisional taxpayers prepare their paperwork filing, Carey van Vlaanderen, CEO of ESET Southern Africa, says it’s essential to be extra vigilant as cybercriminals set their sights on South African taxpayers for a quick payday. Tax season has become a popular time for criminals to send out fraudulent emails and SMSs claiming…

Jul 09, 2024 Buzz

Exciting projects honoured at the first AI Communication Award 

Artificial intelligence as a tool for use in the podcast jungle, the Escape Recruitment game and in creative work for Instagram – these are the winning projects at the first AI Communication Award. One student has also examined how AI influences brand communication. The prizes have now been awarded in Kupferzell. The Minister of Economic Affairs for Baden-Württemberg, Dr. Nicole…

Jul 09, 2024 Buzz

African football takes centre stage as the Toyota Cup officially launches

African football giants are set to collide this month as the Toyota Cup – a brand-new annual cup competition - launches in partnership with Kaizer Chiefs Football Club and Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM). A ground-breaking pre-season Cup competition set to be hosted and contested by Kaizer Chiefs FC, the Toyota Cup will see South Africa’s largest football brand, going head-to-head against some…

Jul 08, 2024 Buzz

Making better money decisions is crucial when buying your first car or home

Buying your first car or home is a thrilling milestone on your journey as a young professional. It's a significant step towards independence and establishing your financial future. However, it's also a decision fraught with potential pitfalls that could have long-lasting financial implications. ‘Many young people try to navigate this process without fully understanding the risks or educating…

Jul 08, 2024 Buzz

Three in a row for Chery

Chery has bagged its third consecutive Gold Award in the annual NADA Dealer Satisfaction Index (DSI), giving it a perfect run since first opening its doors in South Africa. The company was one of only seven brands to achieve Gold status and arguably the only brand that has been able to maintain this top-tier status throughout its existence. The National Automotive Dealers Association’s (NADA)…

Jul 08, 2024 Buzz

NADA 2024 Dealer Satisfaction Index results celebrate excellence in automotive sector

The National Automobile Dealers’ Association (NADA) is proud to announce the results of the 2024 Dealer Satisfaction Index (DSI) survey. Now in its 28th year (with a pause in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic) the DSI survey continues to be a crucial benchmark for measuring dealer satisfaction across various automotive brands in South Africa. This year’s survey saw participation from 35…

Jul 08, 2024 Buzz

Suzuki Dealers give the brand a Platinum stamp of approval

Suzuki has become only the second vehicle manufacturer (OEM) and fourth brand to earn Platinum status in the annual NADA DSI Awards. The Platinum Award means that Suzuki has maintained a benchmark score of over 85% in the past year. The industry average is 76%. The National Automotive Dealers Association (NADA) Dealer Satisfaction Index (DSI) is an annual test of a vehicle manufacturer’s…

Jul 05, 2024 Buzz

Mechatronics apprentice named Volkswagen Group Africa’s Best Apprentice

The Volkswagen Group announced their 2024 Best Apprentices at a ceremony held in Wolfsburg, Germany at the end of June. This accolade is given every year in recognition of outstanding performance from apprentices who are training to become qualified artisans. This year 49 Volkswagen Group trainees from 41 locations and 19 countries worldwide were ceremoniously honoured. Kariega-based Melony…

Jul 05, 2024 Buzz

WesBank and Collen Mashawana Foundation handover fully furnished home in Umlazi, KZN

The Collen Mashawana Foundation, in partnership with WesBank, today handed over a newly built house to the Bhengu family in Umlazi, KwaZulu-Natal, whose home was destroyed in the devastating 2019 floods. Ntombikayise Bhengu, a single mother and domestic worker, has been renting a one-room space in Umlazi Ward 84, forcing some of her children to seek accommodation elsewhere due to a lack of space.…

Jul 05, 2024 Buzz

GetWorth and GRIT - Gender Rights and Tech join forces

GetWorth, a leading car and technology company, continues their partnership with GRIT – Gender Rights in Tech (formerly Kwanele), an accredited NGO dedicated to ending gender-based violence (GBV) in South Africa. Together, they are taking a powerful stand against GBV, bringing hope and safety to those affected. Shared Vision for Safer Communities This innovative collaboration brings together two…

Jul 05, 2024 Buzz

Toyota, Lexus and Hino achieve Platinum at 2024 NADA DSI Awards

Toyota and its affiliated brands Lexus and Hino, each took home a platinum award at the National Automobile Dealers’ Association (NADA) Dealer Satisfaction Index Awards at a prestigious ceremony held on Tuesday, 2 July 2024. Notably, the top three most prevalent questions in predicting satisfaction-loyalty were whether the dealers perceive their brand to: set the standard for excellence in the…

Jul 05, 2024 Buzz

Informal Workshop Webinar: Discrimination in the workplace 25 July 2024

NEASA will be conducting an informal workshop webinar to ensure that business owners, managers, HR and IR managers better understand the complexities of discrimination in the workplace. TOPICS: the duty on employers to eliminate unfair discrimination in terms of Section 5 of the Employment Equity Act (EEA); fair discrimination and Unfair discrimination; the dispute resolution process and…

Jul 05, 2024 Buzz

SA designers use AI to create unique outfits from Volvo EX30 upholstery

Volvo Car South Africa is pleased to announce a unique collaboration in which two innovative South African designers employed artificial intelligence (AI) to help create distinctive fashion items using sustainable upholstery sourced from the fully electric Volvo EX30. Under the slogan “Designed with AI, Crafted by Humans”, fashion designers Fikile Sokhulu and Nao Serati Mofammere – each known for…

Jul 05, 2024 Buzz

Opinion Piece: Breaking the bottle - the truth about alcohol's impact on workplace well-being

Alcohol consumption in the workplace isn't just about immediate risks like intoxication. It contributes to a broader range of psychosocial challenges affecting employee well-being. Psychological factors like impulsiveness and low self-esteem, often stemming from unresolved emotional trauma, can lead to inappropriate drinking behaviour, while for others, alcohol becomes a misguided form of…

Jul 05, 2024 Buzz

Clarity on Zimbabwean Exemption Permits (ZEPs) deadlines

With regard to our recent newsletter concerning the ZEP dispensation, we wish to provide further clarity for all affected parties on the relevant deadlines and periods of validity of the ZEPs: Current ZEP holders of the original ZEPs: extended and valid until 29 November 2024. Current holders of original ZEPs are entitled to apply for New Exemption Permits. New Exemption Permits issued are valid…

Jul 04, 2024 Buzz

Retail Motor Industry congratulates new cabinet appointments

Ipeleng Mabusela, CEO strategy and corporate support for the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), the leading voice in the automotive aftermarket sector with more than 170,000 employees employed through its eight associations, warmly congratulates the newly appointed cabinet of ministers and deputy ministers, specifically those in the Departments of Transport, Employment and Labour,…

Jul 04, 2024 Buzz

Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen-3 awarded test winner by ADAC

Goodyear Vector 4Seasons Gen-3 has become the first all-season tyre to ever receive a ‘Good’ rating in an ADAC tyre test, having won the German organisation’s 16-inch all-season tyre test published this week. ADAC, Europe’s largest automobile association, in collaboration with its Austrian and Swiss counterparts ÖAMTC and TCS, tested 16 all-season tyres in terms of safety on snow, wet and dry…

Jul 04, 2024 Buzz

All economic plans fail

As South Africa emerges from the recent general elections, it is crucial to remember that our collective problems as a country are not caused by personalities, but rather by policies. With a majority of the electorate voting for state interventionist policies, it is important to evaluate the impact of the policies we have in place. First, let's dispel the myth that South Africa is a haven of free…

Jul 04, 2024 Buzz

New Mercedes-AMG G63 Exclusively Fitted with Original Equipment Tyres from General Tire

General Tire is to equip the new Mercedes-AMG G63, the sports version of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, with original equipment tyres. This ultra high-performance SUV from the AMG tuner forge will be exclusively fitted with 20-inch General Tire Grabber HTS60 tyres from the factory. The tyre is designed to ensure maximum safety, both on and off the road. Grabber HTS60 – optimal safety features both on…

Jul 03, 2024 Buzz

Unlocking ESG Potential: Experts to Guide Businesses at CILTSA’s Data-Centric Conference

The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport: South Africa (CILTSA) has secured a powerful line-up of panellists and speakers for its upcoming Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Conference. Themed “From Data to Decisions: Utilising ESG Data for Smarter Business Strategies”, the event takes place on Thursday 25 July at the Fairways Hotel in Randpark, Johannesburg. This one-day event…

Jul 03, 2024 Buzz

Government of National Unity (GNU): Between a rock and a hard place

On Sunday, South Africans received the news that the Government of National Unity (GNU) was constituted. For over a month, South Africa hinged on either a Government of National Unity, in this format, or one in which the ANC entered into a governing relationship with the EFF, in a typical ‘doomsday’ scenario. This is exactly the scenario that the DA faced when confronted with the decision to…

Jul 03, 2024 Buzz

FUCHS LUBRICANTS’ Oil Chooser simplifies maintenance for off-highway equipment

When it comes to heavy-duty machinery and off-highway equipment, efficiency and reliability are key. Every second of downtime due to maintenance can translate into significant losses in productivity and revenue. Recognising this challengeFUCHS, a global leader in lubricants, has an Oil Chooser function on its website that allows customers to easily and quickly search for and select the correct…

Jul 03, 2024 Buzz

Why SA needs a pro-free market coalition

Regardless of which form the final ruling coalition takes, for South Africa to thrive the new government must push for more liberty and a freer market. The African National Congress (ANC), which has historically stood against the free market and continually eroded South Africans freedoms, has experienced its biggest electoral loss in its entire history – dropping well below 50%. The ANC has been…

Jul 03, 2024 Buzz

All eyes on new cabinet to get South Africa’s economy moving as new vehicle sales slow further

"South Africa had a free and fair election with the ANC losing its majority for the first time in its 30-year rule. Unlike most other liberation movements on the continent, they transitioned peacefully to a Government of National Unity (GNU) and power-sharing model. What a historic occasion this is and what a testament to real democracy," commented Brandon Cohen, Chairperson of the National…

Jul 02, 2024 Buzz

Automechanika Innovation Awards 2024: Record participation this year

More than 150 products are in the running for the Automechanika Frankfurt Innovation Awards this year. This is the largest number of entries since the awards were launched. There were a particularly large number of submissions in the areas of workshop solutions, innovative parts, electromobility and AI. The international jury will meet in Frankfurt in mid-July to decide which products will be…

Jul 02, 2024 Buzz

NAACAM welcomes new Cabinet appointment in South Africa

The National Association of Automotive Component and Allied Manufacturers (NAACAM) congratulates the newly appointed members of cabinet to deliver on the mandate of South Africa’s seventh democratic administration. This cabinet, framed under that of a government of national unity marks a significant milestone, and NAACAM looks forward to collaboration with government and other stakeholders to…

Jul 02, 2024 Buzz

New Ministers must step up government’s service to citizens

Engagement with civil organisations is crucial going forward. The finalisation of the Cabinet of National Unity by President Cyril Ramaphosa has brought certainty to the leadership of key government departments, a move welcomed by the Automobile Association (AA). The Association notes that Ms Barbara Creecy, appointed as the new Minister of Transport, and Mr Gwede Mantashe, re-appointed as the…

Jul 02, 2024 Buzz

NEASA Youth Development Program: Solar Technical students available!

NEASA Youth can assist you with junior solar technicians for your business. These students have completed the first phase of their academic training as solar technicians and are ready to assist you in your business. We look forward to partnering with you in 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…

Jul 02, 2024 Buzz

Volkswagen Group Africa signs a new agreement with the Government of Egypt to develop a feasibility study for construction of Body Shop and Assembly Line

Building upon the progress and mutual understanding achieved under the agreement signed in November 2023 - to work together to develop a feasibility study on a shared automotive painting facility within the East Port Said Industrial Zone in the East Port Said Automotive Zone (EPAZ) in Cairo – Volkswagen Group Africa and the Government of Egypt have signed a new agreement. In the new strategic…

Jul 02, 2024 Buzz

naamsa releases June 2024 new vehicle sales statistics and congratulates the new Cabinet in the Government of National Unity

The Automotive Business Council has congratulated the appointment of the new Cabinet in the Government of National Unity [GNU] as announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa on 30 June 2024. naamsa said the challenge was to put narrow political differences behind and for the 7th administration to create a positive momentum and bring about tangible impact in the lives of ordinary South Africans in this…

Jul 02, 2024 Buzz

Hino SA wins awards for 13th consecutive years

Hino South Africa has once again won global Service and Parts Distributor of the Year Awards from Hino Motors Limited, in Japan. This is the 13th consecutive year that Hino SA has won these two accolades which are contested by Hino distributors worldwide. Hino SA also won another award from HML which was for its sales effort in 2024. “Each distributor is scored monthly against a set of criteria…

Jul 01, 2024 Buzz

Volkswagen’s $5 billion bet on Rivian gets influencer attention on X, reveals GlobalData

Volkswagen (VW) and US-based electric vehicle (EV) startup Rivian Automotive have emerged as trending companies among the influencers on social media platform “X,” following the German automaker's announcement of a strategic investment of up to $5 billion in Rivian. This partnership is perceived as mutually beneficial wherein Volkswagen secures access to Rivian's advanced software-defined vehicle…

Jul 01, 2024 Buzz

Kia South Africa welcomes Paul Turnbull as CEO

Kia South Africa today welcomes Paul Turnbull as CEO. The leadership change was announced by Osman Arbee, CEO of Motus Holdings, in April and comes into effect as of today as part of a broader set of leadership changes with the group. Turnbull joins Kia from Hyundai Automotive South Africa and succeeds Gary Scott, who held the position of CEO at Kia since 1 July 2017 and who has been appointed…

Jul 01, 2024 Buzz

Goodyear Shares Sustainability Progress in 2023 Corporate Responsibility Report

The Goodyear Tyre & Rubber Company (NASDAQ: GT) today released its report on corporate responsibility performance for 2023. The company's latest report details how Goodyear is helping create value for its internal and external stakeholders. The report also outlines the progress Goodyear is making toward achieving its short- and long-term sustainability goals. Chief Executive Officer and President…

Jul 01, 2024 Buzz

Cut Cabinet from 31 to 10 ministries, says FMF

In light of the protracted negotiations to form a Government of National Unity (GNU), the Free Market Foundation (FMF) has proposed that South Africa’s current, bloated Cabinet should be reduced from 31 portfolios to only 10 ministries. According to the FMF, the size of the Cabinet, in particular the large bureaucracy and contingent of civil servants represented by each portfolio is a significant…

Jun 28, 2024 Buzz

Here’s to the overjoyed Renault Kiger competition winner

Renault South Africa launched a national ‘test-drive-to-win’ competition on 19th April 2024, with the chance to win a brand-new Renault Kiger Turbo model worth R339 999. The competition was officially introduced at the ABSA Wildeklawer event in Kimberley, the biggest School Sports Tournament in the Southern Hemisphere. With over 26,000 people in attendance over the duration, this was the perfect…

Jun 28, 2024 Buzz

bpSA helps 100 North-West University students to overcome the final hurdle

bp Southern Africa has responded to the plight of 100 North-West University students as part of its centenary commemorative initiatives. The company has donated R2.5m to help 100 of the university’s students clear their outstanding fees, enabling them to enter the working world with confidence. Answering a parliamentary question earlier this year, Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande said 56…

Jun 28, 2024 Buzz

FAW Trucks Southern Africa Empowers Future Leaders during Youth Month

FAW Trucks Southern Africa, a leading name in the automotive industry, proudly recognised the future of the brand by inviting the youth to a Youth Day event as part of the company’s Youth Month festivities. The occasion buzzed with activity as young participants enjoyed a fun-filled afternoon, fostering connections and exploring the essence of FAW Trucks Southern Africa through interactive…

Jun 28, 2024 Buzz

Kelston named Renault SA’s top micro dealership

Eastern Cape auto retailer Kelston Motor Group has been named Renault South Africa’s Dealer of the Year in the micro category for the second year running. Kelston Renault in Komani took the coveted title, following in the footsteps of its sister dealership in Makhanda who triumphed the previous year. Renault SA’s Dealer of the Year Awards, held in Johannesburg recently, honoured brand dealers’…

Jun 28, 2024 Buzz

Volkswagen Group Africa receives international honour for plastic recycling project

A project involving the recycling of plastic parts not used in the production process, has earned Volkswagen Group Africa’s plant in Kariega an international award. The Challenge of the Brands competition, which received more than 140 entries in five categories from across the Volkswagen Group, awarded Plant Kariega top honours in its Zero Impact Factory environmental category. The winning…

Jun 28, 2024 Buzz

Meet the winner of Motor Mech 2024

On the 15 June twelve talented young students battled it out for top honours at the Port Rex Motor Mech show. There can however only be one winner and this year top honours went to 19 year-old Grade 12 student, Johnathan du Toit from Daniel Pienaar Technical High, who travelled all the way from Kariega to compete in the competition. Du Toit, who is still reeling with excitement says it truly felt…

Jun 28, 2024 Buzz

Engen and Tharisa Mines collaborate to support Marikana matrics

Engen, in partnership with Tharisa Mines, has once again taken proactive steps to empower the Marikana North High matric class by providing them with study guides to assist them in preparing for their final exams. This long-standing collaboration aims to support educational endeavours at Marikana North High School. The handover event on 20 June saw the distribution of 607 study guides across…

Jun 27, 2024 Buzz

Daimler Truck Southern Africa appoints new Vice President for Sales & Marketing

Effective 1 July 2024, DTSA is thrilled to announce the appointment of Olaf Petersen as their new Vice President for Sales and Marketing. This follows Maretha Gerber, previously holding the position, being promoted to President and Group CEO of DTSA earlier in the year. Olaf brings a wealth of knowledge and international experience from various Mercedes-Benz and Daimler Truck markets across the…

Jun 27, 2024 Buzz

Lots of action for the body & paint industry

From 10 to 14 September 2024, Automechanika in Frankfurt has a lot to offer for professionals in the body & paint sector: Lectures on repairing electric vehicles, practical workshops and live painting, a lounge for expert meetings, an after-work event on Friday, many presentations on the topic of classic cars, including selected show cars. Automechanika fans can now choose one of the vehicles…

Jun 27, 2024 Buzz

MEIBC: Employers, retain your skilled employees

As previously communicated, Seifsa concluded a 3-year wage agreement with NUMSA and other trade unions. It is expected that this agreement, at some point in time, may be extended by the Minister of Employment and Labour to all employers falling within the scope of the Metals and Engineering Industries Bargaining Council (MEIBC). The consequence of such extension is that all employers will be…

Jun 27, 2024 Buzz

TecDoc: Global Standard Celebrates its 30th Anniversary

TecAlliance, the leading expert for data management and processes in the automotive aftermarket, has reason to celebrate: the TecDoc Standard was launched in 1994 as a uniform format for the entry, publication and distribution of high-quality spare parts product information in the independent aftermarket. To this day, TecDoc enables the fast and precise identification of spare parts and vehicles.…

Jun 27, 2024 Buzz

Automechanika Ho Chi Minh City 2024 concludes with participants applauding expanded opportunities for business and lifestyle exchange related to automotive mobility

Key figures from Automechanika Ho Chi Minh City 2024: Visitors: 15,383 from 43 countries and regions (17 percent increase) Exhibitors: 482 from 23 countries and regions Scale: 22,600 sqm (Hall A and B, as well as outdoor area) Over 50 experts, trainer and professionals across conference and workshops On behalf of the organisers, Ms Judy Wang, President of Yorkers Exhibition Service Vietnam, said:…

Jun 26, 2024 Buzz

Tyre industry opens doors for unemployed youth

Upskilling changes lives. Xolani Kweyama (26), like thousands of other South African youths, grappled with the challenge of unemployment. He worked ad hoc in construction but he dreamt of working in the tyre industry. His dreams were waning fast before he decided he had to take the bull by the horns or risk becoming another statistic. “Apart from the mere frustration at not being able to secure…

Jun 26, 2024 Buzz

AERO South Africa 2024 countdown starts

Messe Frankfurt South Africa in partnership with Fairnamic GmbH and Adrenaline Show productions is proud to announce the highly anticipated return of AERO South Africa, the premier general aviation trade show, for its fourth edition. With just 2 weeks to go South Africa’s premier general aviation exhibition to be staged at Wonderboom National Airport in the City of Tshwane. The show is scheduled…

Jun 25, 2024 Buzz

Chery earns top spot in prestigious brand report

Chery hit the top spot in the auto category of the prestigious Google X Kantar BrandZ Top 50 Chinese Global Brand Builders for 2024. This is the second consecutive year that Chery ranked first among Chinese automotive brands with a global appeal. What makes this especially impressive, is that Google and Kantar included eight Chinese auto brands in its report, the most yet. The Google x Kantar…

Jun 25, 2024 Buzz

Reject the false dichotomy of ANC-DA or ANC-EFF

The election is over. Arguably the next most important phase is now under way: coalition negotiations. But the narrative that South Africa only has two options, being an ANC-DA or ANC-EFF government, is dangerously misleading. I have spent an unjustifiable amount of time over the past two weeks repeating the same message to some DA supporters online, which I repeat here: It is untrue that an…

Jun 21, 2024 Buzz

Informal Workshop Webinar: Discrimination in the workplace 25 July 2024

NEASA will be conducting an informal workshop webinar to ensure that business owners, managers, HR and IR managers better understand the complexities of discrimination in the workplace. TOPICS: the duty on employers to eliminate unfair discrimination in terms of Section 5 of the Employment Equity Act (EEA); fair discrimination and Unfair discrimination; the dispute resolution process and…

Jun 21, 2024 Buzz

BMW Motorrad presents the R 1300 GS Trophy Competition Bike and F 900 GS Trophy Marshal Bike

When a total of 22 national teams - including six women's and 16 men's teams - with a total of 60 riders compete for the coveted trophy at the BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy 2024 Namibia from 15 to 20 September 2024, they will be able to rely on a superior workhorse as they cross Namibia: the BMW R 1300 GS Trophy Competition Bike. The R 1300 GS Trophy Competition Bike has been developed…

Jun 21, 2024 Buzz

TecDoc Advances Automotive Aftermarket with Premier Data Quality

TecAlliance, the leading expert for data management and processes in the automotive aftermarket, has announced a significant milestone in its ongoing commitment to data excellence. In the most recent supplier evaluation conducted in May 2024, 32% of the brands in the TecDoc Catalogue were awarded the prestigious “TecDoc Premier Data Supplier” (PDS) seal for meeting rigorous data quality…

Jun 21, 2024 Buzz

Africa Gears Up for a New Era of Mobility: Smarter Mobility Africa 2024 Announces Mobility Investment Projects

Africa is on the move, with rapid urbanization transforming cities across the continent. To navigate this exciting yet challenging landscape, Smarter Mobility Africa summit 2024 is set to convene industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators on October 2-4 2024, at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa. This year's summit, themed "Embracing a New Urban Era," will focus on…

Jun 21, 2024 Buzz

Ford South Africa’s Unwavering Commitment to Sustainability Reaffirmed in Centenary Year

Reaching a 100th anniversary is a major milestone for any company, but how does the organisation not just remain relevant and in tune with the current times, but also adequately prepare for the future? In the case of Ford South Africa, it’s through an unwavering commitment to sustainability by continuing to invest in its local operations, rapidly adapting and innovating, reducing its impact on…

Jun 21, 2024 Buzz

IMPORTANT NOTICE: MEIBC Main agreement not extended yet | Does not apply to non-signatories

It has come to our attention that the MEIBC has been circulating memorandums to employers within its scope which prescribe wage tables and increases to be implemented as of 1 July 2024. NEASA members are advised that the MEIBC main agreement has not been extended. Therefore, as NEASA is not a signatory to the settlement agreement, these increases and wage rates are currently not applicable to…

Jun 21, 2024 Buzz

Sumitomo Rubber Factory Tour Programme Gets into High Gear for Youth Month

In celebration of Youth Month, 60 Grade 9 learners from Colenso Combined School were led on a fascinating journey into the world of tyre manufacturing at Sumitomo Rubber South Africa’s (SRSA) Dunlop Tyres plant in Ladysmith. The educational tour, arranged by SRSA as part of its Factory Tour Programme for local schools, provided learners with a firsthand glimpse into the science and technology…

Jun 21, 2024 Buzz

Futuroad Expo Gears Up to Welcome Visitors from Sub-Saharan Africa

Futuroad Expo, Africa's premier trade fair for the truck, bus and commercial vehicle sector, is gearing up for its upcoming event taking place from 19 to 21 November 2024 at Nasrec Expo Centre, Johannesburg. Organisers are expecting an increase in visitors from across Sub-Saharan Africa, building on the attendance seen in 2023. “Just over 6,000 visitors attended Futuroad in 2023, excluding those…

Jun 20, 2024 Buzz

TIGERS take top honours in hotly contested competition

Emotions were high and talent in abundance as eight young contestants from Port Rex Technical High School in East London and a team of four from Daniel Pienaar Technical High School in Kariega battled it out on Saturday 15 June 2024, to see who the winners in this year’s highly contested Motor Mech Competition would be held at host school, Port Rex. The show is run in collaboration with the Motor…

Jun 20, 2024 Buzz

Volkswagen commits to enhancing youth employability

Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA) is dedicated to improving the employability of South African youth by providing them with essential knowledge and skills, and offering opportunities to showcase their abilities, establish a strong work ethic, and prove their value. In line with this commitment, VWGA supports the Youth Employment Services (YES) programme, initiated by the South African government six…

Jun 20, 2024 Buzz

Suzuki focuses on children for their latest road safety project

Suzuki Auto South Africa is continuing to establish itself as the premier automotive brand in South Africa to champion road safety. The brand has partnered with road safety champions, Wheel Well, to purchase and distribute hundreds of warm beanies with reflector bands to children in rural KwaZulu-Natal. “Children are disproportionately affected by accidents. Besides the clear risk to themselves,…

Jun 20, 2024 Buzz

POPIA: Re-registration of Information Officers and submission of PAIA reports

As previously communicated, the Information Regulator published a notice to all private and public bodies, reminding them to: register/re-register their Information Officers and Deputy Information Officers, as the Information Regulator has a new website and e-services platform; (even if an employer has, prior to May 2024, registered with the Information Regulator, all private- and public bodies…

Jun 19, 2024 Buzz

Receive Free Registration and Special Benefits at AAPEX

Attend AAPEX 2024 with an Industry Delegation. Discover an expanded show floor with more innovative products and training to drive your business forward at AAPEX 2024, the premier event bringing the global automotive aftermarket industry together. This year, maximize your AAPEX experience by joining an industry delegation from your country. Trade specialists working with the U.S. Commercial…

Jun 19, 2024 Buzz

The largest edition of Automechanika Ho Chi Minh City opens this Thursday to showcase innovative automotive mobility solution

The highly anticipated sixth edition of Automechanika Ho Chi Minh City gears up to host 482 exhibitors hailing from 23 countries and regions, convening for three days between 20 and 22 June 2024. As a significant step forward, the show will span across halls A and B of the Saigon Exhibition & Convention Center (SECC), an expansion of 44 percent to a record-breaking space of over 22,600 sqm. In…

Jun 19, 2024 Buzz

Exciting changes underway at Mazda South Africa

The Mazda brand has undergone many evolutions since it first started as a cork manufacturer in the 1920’s. The first Mazda vehicle, called the ‘Mazda-Go’ was introduced in 1931. Mazda has since grown into a leading global vehicle manufacturer with a reputation for exemplary quality, performance and design. A big part of the brand’s success is its ability to adapt with the changing needs of…

Jun 19, 2024 Buzz

Virtual Event: Red flags or warning signs potential franchisees should be wary of

Virtual Networking 27 June 11:00 am - 12:30 pm Networking is a strategic tool for mitigating risks and navigating challenges in the business landscape. By connecting with a diverse network of professionals, you gain access to invaluable insights, advice and potential opportunities that can safeguard your venture against unforeseen pitfalls. Whether you're seeking guidance on industry trends,…

Jun 19, 2024 Buzz

Fuelling Dreams: Chery South Africa Launches The Chery Scholarship Challenge

At Chery South Africa, we believe in the power of youth to drive change and innovation. In honour of Youth Day, and in celebration of the phenomenal sales performance of the Tiggo 4 Pro in South Africa, we are proud to announce The Chery Scholarship Challenge – an initiative to celebrate the unstoppable spirit and inspiring talent of South African youth. The Chery Scholarship Challenge aims to…

Jun 19, 2024 Buzz

Supply Chain Summit in Frankfurt: Resilient supply chain in the automotive aftermarket determines business success

Decision-makers, users and providers of innovative solutions met for the second time at the Supply Chain Summit on 4 June in Frankfurt to discuss the transformation of supply chains from procurement to recycling in the automotive supply industry. Michael Johannes, Vice President Mobility & Logistics: "With the Supply Chain Summit, we have succeeded in bringing together experts from different…

Jun 19, 2024 Buzz

Calling all young entrepreneurs in Supply Chain: SAAFF SMME DESK boosts national logistics transformation programs

Supply Chain professionals from across the continent lauded the announcement this week by the Southern Africa Association of Freight Forwarders (SAAFF) of the launch of the SAAFF SMME Desk. “This timely initiative by SAAFF is pivotal at this juncture, where capacity building, facilitated through technology, easy access to information and skills development programs, among others, stand out as…

Jun 18, 2024 Buzz

Navigating vehicle finance during challenging economic times

By Dumisani Zwane, MFC Executive The road to vehicle ownership is often paved with financial complexities, and the current challenging economic landscape has added a variety of speed bumps and road hazards to further complicate the journey. Rising inflation, lingering interest rate uncertainty, and shifting consumer spending habits all have a profound impact on car financing options and…

Jun 18, 2024 Buzz

BMW Group South Africa powers career and educational development to mark Youth Month 2024

On 13 June, BMW Group South Africa held its third annual Youth Day event at the recently transformed Lethabong Maths, Science & ICT School of Specialisation with a focus on automotive in Soshanguve, Tshwane. The celebration, which honoured Youth Month, hosted matriculants of Lethabong School of Specialisation and Soshanguve Automotive School of Specialisation – both of which share a partnership…

Jun 18, 2024 Buzz

ISUZU Motors South Africa Invests in Youth to Build a Better Tomorrow

ISUZU Motors South Africa (ISUZU) is dedicated to empowering youth by investing in education at every stage, creating a full cycle of youth development opportunities from early childhood through to high school, tertiary education and providing youth employment opportunities, to build a better tomorrow. Through a partnership with Rally to Read, ISUZU invested over R1 million to enhance literacy…

Jun 14, 2024 Buzz

Celebrating Youth Month: Engen’s Maphuthego Etu Maditsi says “Knowledge is Power”

Polokwane’s Maphuthego Etu Maditsi believes education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world, which is why she will never stop learning and challenging herself. “I believe that sharing my success story can inspire other young women to prioritise education,” says the graduate trainee based at Engen’s head office in Cape Town. “Rather than relying on others for support, which…

Jun 14, 2024 Buzz

Castrol Celebrates Youth Day with the Official Launch of Kya Sands Independent Workshop

What better way to mark 16th June and Youth Month than by celebrating the progress of a young entrepreneur, Thabiso Mkhize of Mumbo Repairs? Today, Castrol officially launched the latest Castrol-branded Mumbo Repairs workshop in Kya Sands, located in the north of Johannesburg. “This is actually the second Castrol-branded Mumbo Repairs workshop—there’s already one operating in Durban. Thabiso is…

Jun 14, 2024 Buzz

New driving licence printing process raises many unanswered questions

Association says citizens have a right to answers on how process is unfolding and how much it will cost. The ongoing lack of clarity in the acquisition of printing equipment to deliver new smart card driving licences for the country is concerning and raises many unanswered questions on the processes followed by the Department of Transport (DoT) in securing this equipment. The Automobile…

Jun 14, 2024 Buzz

STOP In For A FREE Vehicle Safety Check

NO COMPROMISES WHEN IT COMES TO SAFETY FREE VEHICLE SAFETY CHECK This winter, we're encouraging you to not only take care of your own personal health, but the health of your vehicle too. Regular safety checks is just one way to ensure a safer, uninterrupted driving experience. Don't delay, stop by any Tyres & More® fitment centre for your FREE Vehicle Safety Check and don't be left out in the…

Jun 14, 2024 Buzz

Rand Mutual Assurance (RMA) : Save on your contributions!

By utilising NEASA’s expert COIDA services in the re-classification of an entity, employers have saved millions in their annual RMA- and Compensation Fund contributions. NEASA can help your business identify and/or recover any contribution-overpayments, past and future. Contact NEASA for an optimisation-assessment of your contributions. This specialised service is rendered on a “no-success,…

Jun 14, 2024 Buzz

16 and 17 June 2024 : Payment for public holidays

16 June 2024 is a public holiday and falls on a Sunday this year. In terms of the Public Holiday Act, if a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday will also be regarded as a public holiday. This means that 17 June will also be a public holiday this year. The question as to how employees should be paid in this instance has been answered by the Labour Appeal Court a number of years…

Jun 14, 2024 Buzz

NHI will lead to healthcare collapse, drive doctors abroad

National Health Insurance (NHI) will not improve South Africa’s healthcare system. Instead of enabling the poor to access high quality healthcare, it is much more likely to bankrupt the fiscus, while tearing down competent private sector healthcare until it is at the level of failing public healthcare. For this reason, the uncertainty surrounding the NHI act, and its multi-level threats to the…

Jun 13, 2024 Buzz

Ready steady go - All systems go for Motor Mech Show at Port Rex

It’s all systems go for the much-awaited Motor Mech show which is happening this Saturday, 15 June, at the Port Rex Technical High School in East London just in time to celebrate Youth Day. Organised in collaboration with the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), this year’s show promises to be a real nail biter. Nothing…

Jun 13, 2024 Buzz

The FMF’s five preconditions for national coalition

The Free Market Foundation (FMF) has released its five non-negotiable terms in the formation of a national coalition government or ‘government of national unity,’ should the parties reject a confidence-and-supply option. ‘The FMF remains committed to a confidence-and-supply “no-alition” arrangement as the best way forward for the country,’ says David Ansara, CEO of the FMF. ‘However, if the…

Jun 13, 2024 Buzz

Volkswagen Group Africa welcomes new non-executive director

Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA) has appointed Yolanda Cuba as a non-executive Director on their Board of Management. Cuba, who joined the Board effective 1 June 2024, is the Vice President for the Southern and East Africa regions for the MTN Group. She has over 20 years’ experience in various African markets and across various industries, including the telecommunications, manufacturing and…

Jun 13, 2024 Buzz

Five stages at the Automechanika Academy

The broad range of topics at Automechanika Frankfurt is also reflected in the Academy programme. The international trade fair offers exciting presentations, talks and panel discussions on pressing issues and the latest developments in the automotive aftermarket on a total of five podiums. Due to the rapid pace of change in the automotive industry, the need for further training and the desire to…

Jun 13, 2024 Buzz

Jaguar South Africa’s #GiveHerACrown campaign artists go global

Jaguar South Africa displayed the exquisite artistry of six women from the 2023 #GiveHerACrown campaign in an event at the South African Consulate in New York. The #GiveHerACrown empowerment platform uses the storytelling and the arts to fight for gender equality. Jaguar worked with the platform on this event to celebrate and showcase the talented women and their stories that are proudly curated…

Jun 13, 2024 Buzz

Chery partners with UNICEF in Türkiye to enhance children’s education

Chery Automobile and UNICEF conduct a visit to education programmes in areas affected by the earthquakes in Türkiye. From June 6th to 7th, 2024, a delegation from Chery Automobile, joined UNICEF, on a comprehensive visit to the February 2023 earthquake-affected regions of Hatay, Nurdağı, and Kilis in Türkiye. This visit focused on educational programmes, from early childhood education to…

Jun 13, 2024 Buzz

Henkel implements fully paid gender-neutral parental leave for its employees worldwide

As of the start of 2024, Henkel implements a new gender-neutral parental leave standard for its 48,000 employees worldwide. This includes the company’s 200 employees in South Africa. Henkel will offer parents up to eight weeks of fully paid parental leave, based on the caregiver role, rather than a gender or biological parent status. This demonstrates a firm commitment to equity, promoting equal…

Jun 11, 2024 Buzz

Nissan South Africa honours its champions at the Nissan auspicious Ignition Awards

Vredendal’s Brand Nissan dealership walked off with the coveted title of Nissan Dealer of the Year for South Africa at a gala function held in the Sandton City convention Centre on Friday, 24 May 2024. Drawing together the global Japanese car maker’s partners from across its African and South African networks for the first ever continental awards ceremony in South Africa, the event was a true…

Jun 11, 2024 Buzz

What to expect from Automechanika 2024

Registration for the ninth Automechanika happening from 19-21 November 2024 at the Johannesburg Expo Center is open. Automechanika is the premier event for the automotive service industry in Africa, Automechanika Johannesburg promises an unparalleled experience for trade buyers and industry professionals. Exclusive Networking Opportunities Connect with key industry players and establish valuable…

Jun 11, 2024 Buzz

Subaru Southern Africa welcomes TT Mbha as new brand ambassador

TT Mbha: Master Practitioner in Real Estate MP(RE), Chartered Marketer CM(SA), Social Entrepreneur, CEO Extraordinaire, and Now, Subaru Southern Africa Brand Ambassador! Subaru Southern Africa is thrilled to announce the addition of TT Mbha, a respected social entrepreneur and successful businessman, to its family as a brand ambassador. TT Mbha, a man of many talents and an unwavering commitment…

Jun 11, 2024 Buzz

Industry working hand in hand with technical schools and colleges

Empowering young people with skills and knowledge is an essential activity in building and maintaining the economy of any society. The spotlight is increasingly falling on vocational skills and the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), the leading voice in the automotive aftermarket, says that during Youth Month there is no better time to applaud Government’s efforts to tackle youth…

Jun 11, 2024 Buzz

UD Trucks Southern Africa heightens its Ultimate Women Program in Gauteng

On 07 June 2024, UD Trucks Southern Africa (UDTSA) announced the expansion of its steadily growing “Ultimate Women Program”, in partnership with Commercial Transport Academy (CTA). Owing to the success and enduring impact of the program in the last two years, the CTA’s first-ever Bus Driver Development Program has been established - a joint venture between the CTA, Southern African Bus Operators…

Jun 11, 2024 Buzz

NEASA Skills Training: Training July 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…

Jun 11, 2024 Buzz

Three KZN SMEs triumph at the Durban Automotive Cluster Dragons’ Den Event

The (DAC) Business Accelerator held its "Dragons’ Den" event at The Pearls in Umhlanga Rocks on Tuesday, 4th June 2024. Although this step of the Accelerator is based on the popular Dragons’ Den television show, its intentions and outcomes are very different. The panel of ‘Dragons’, Kim Nisbet and Zimvo Mtolo from Toyota South Africa Motors, Thomo Molepo from Hesto Harnesses, and Tansel…

Jun 11, 2024 Buzz

What are solutions to our crime crisis?

Based on official statistics and the fact of unreported cases, anecdotally, the crime situation seems to be approaching apocalyptic proportions. Yet, the situation is not insurmountable, but it is reversible to a significant extent. All it takes is political will, fixity of purpose, and a moral compass in terms of the drastic measures that have to be implemented on a no-prisoners-taken,…

Jun 11, 2024 Buzz

Compensation Fund - Employer Audits

NEASA has, once again, received communication from employers across various industries, regarding their receipt of a Notice of Audit, distributed by audit firms contracted by the Compensation Fund. Such Notices instruct these randomly selected employers to register on an online platform and submit a legion of documents concerning their organisation - comprising a period of four years - within a…

Jun 10, 2024 Buzz

‘Govt of national unity’ co-opts opposition, FMF warns

The Free Market Foundation (FMF) is warning that the eagerness to form a ‘government of national unity’ risks co-opting the opposition at a time when accountability is most needed. The FMF is cautioning opposition parties to remain sober and reject the recent invitation by Cyril Ramaphosa to join a government of national unity (GNU). This follows the National Executive Committee meeting of the…

Jun 10, 2024 Buzz

Mercedes-Benz South Africa unites with the Makazole Mapimpi Foundation to create an unparalleled impact for the youth and communities of the Eastern Cape

The Makazole Mapimpi Foundation and Mercedes-Benz South Africa (MBSA) proudly announce a strategic partnership which will realise community development through impactful initiatives in the areas of sport for development, education, and community upliftment in the Eastern Cape. The Makazole Mapimpi Foundation is dedicated to fostering a vibrant and inclusive community by championing youth…

Jun 10, 2024 Buzz

THE TIRE COLOGNE 2024: The industry celebrates its leading trade fair

THE TIRE COLOGNE 2024 ended with a very good result on Thursday, 6 June 2024. 430 exhibitors from 35 countries came together at the most important industry platform with around 14,400 participants from 109 countries. THE TIRE COLOGNE this year proved itself not only as an outstanding B2B platform that connects international tire and wheel manufacturers with tire wholesalers and the specialist…

Jun 10, 2024 Buzz

Engen’s partnership with RBS boosts local enterprise development

Engen recently handed over the keys to a new truck to Resegofetse Business Solutions (RBS) that will enhance the 100% Black women-owned enterprise’s service capability along the Bafokeng mining belt. RBS, who are based in Phokeng in the North West province, supply consumables, cleaning services, and lubricants to mines in the area. Handover of the 4-tonne vehicle took place at the Engen…

Jun 10, 2024 Buzz

Are you prepared for where EVs are going?

EVs Transforming the Industry Announcing June’s FREE webinar: The Future of EV with the Current Headwinds Thursday, June 20 12-1 p.m ET. During this 45-minute crash course, you’ll explore critical topics in the fast-growing EV market including state requirements, HEV market share, charging units requiring servicing, and more with Akshay Singh, Partner at PwC Strategy& (US) Inc. Now’s your chance…

Jun 07, 2024 Buzz

TecCom e-Invoicing Services Achieve ISO 27001 Certification

TecAlliance has successfully achieved the ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification for development, operation and maintenance of SaaS solutions in the area of e-invoicing. This certification affirms TecAlliance’s dedication to excellence in data and process management in the global automotive aftermarket and highlights the adherence to stringent information security standards. “Our ISO 27001…

Jun 07, 2024 Buzz

Stellantis chosen to participate in the first ever Bay of Opportunity Showcase

Stellantis is privileged to have been invited by the Nelson Mandela Bay Chamber of Commerce to open the chamber’s first ever “Bay of Opportunity Manufacturing Showcase” currently being held over two days in Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape, says Stellantis SA Managing Director Mike Whitfield. Nelson Mandela Bay is home to most of South Africa’s automotive manufacturing and almost all the component…

Jun 07, 2024 Buzz

ISUZU Motors South Africa enhances Gift of the Givers’ efforts to provide disaster relief

ISUZU Motors South Africa (ISUZU) has handed over two ISUZU water tanker trucks and an amount of R100 000 to Gift of the Givers to enhance efforts to provide disaster relief to Eastern Cape communities recently affected by devastating floods. “This is an opportunity for us to support our communities with our vehicles that are built for reliability, capability, and durability. We are confident…

Jun 07, 2024 Buzz

COIDA: Return Of Earnings: Submission date extended

The submission date for all businesses to submit their annual Return of Earnings (ROEs), has been extended to 30 June 2024. No new Letters of Good Standing (LOGS) will be issued to businesses that fail to timeously file, submit and pay their assessment based on their annual ROEs. Employers who require assistance with ROE submissions, obtaining their LOGS, or any other COIDA assistance services…

Jun 07, 2024 Buzz

AutoTrader Dealer Convention 2024 Exclusive Highlights

We’re excited to share the highlights from our recent AutoTrader Dealer Convention: Global & local keynote speakers shared latest trends and insights in the automotive industry in South Africa. Engaging discussions from two dynamic panels, led by eNCA News Anchor and Reporter, Gareth Edwards. The introduction of the AutoTrader Dealer Awards, celebrating excellence, innovation, and success within…

Jun 07, 2024 Buzz

Record entries for Nedbank Pitch & Polish 2024 reflect growing entrepreneurial spirit in South Africa

The 2024 edition of the Nedbank Pitch & Polish competition has seen a significant surge in entries with more than 1 430 aspiring entrepreneurs vying for a chance to refine their business ideas and secure invaluable financial and non-financial support. This is almost double the 800 entries received in 2023 and is a trend that highlights the increasing appeal of the initiative and the expanding…

Jun 07, 2024 Buzz

Absa and Renault in South Africa Announce Strategic Alliance

Absa and Renault in South Africa are delighted to announce a strategic alliance designed to drive market-leading growth for both businesses. This partnership brings to market the launch of Renault Financial Services, a finance product of Absa, aimed at offering finance and other comprehensive suite of financial services to Renault customers. Through this alliance, Renault dealers will gain…

Jun 07, 2024 Buzz

TEPA advocating for a safer and more sustainable future

This week on Wednesday 5 June 2024, businesses, governments and people around the world celebrated World Environment Day focuses on land restoration, desertification and drought resilience under the slogan “Our land. Our future. We are #GenerationRestoration.” Vishal Premlall, National Director of the Tyre, Equipment, Parts Association (TEPA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry…

Jun 07, 2024 Buzz

5 Keys to Entrepreneurial Success

Celebrating a woman’s accomplishments in the evolving business landscape In a world where female entrepreneurship is gaining momentum, Jacqueline van Rooijen, Business Growth Consultant and Director at Ycagel exemplifies resilience and innovation. Marking seven years in business, she shares the key principles that have contributed to her success, offering practical advice for aspiring…

Jun 06, 2024 Buzz

Millions of tons of grease and oil flowing into our waterways annually

Shocking statistics reveal that approximately 50% of lubricants used on industrial machines and equipment eventually makes their way into the environment where just one litre of used oil has the capacity to poison about a million litres of water. Significantly, the global market for lubricants is rising and in 2019 increased by 2% to more than 45 million tons showing how dire the consequences are…

Jun 06, 2024 Buzz

JAC Motors produces 300,000th T-Series double-cab bakkie

JAC Motors has just rolled off its 300,000th T-Series double-cab bakkie from the Yangzhou production line in the Jiangsu Province, in China, coinciding with its 60th birthday celebrations. While it took 13 years to produce 200,000 T-Series bakkies, the next 100,000 took less than two years. This rapid growth is due to JAC Motors' expanding international footprint and increasing sales in…

Jun 06, 2024 Buzz

Electric vehicles at Automechanika: moving towards zero-carbon transportation

More companies than ever before will be presenting products and solutions in the field of electromobility at the upcoming Automechanika in Frankfurt, the leading industry platform for the automotive aftermarket, taking place from 10 to 14 September. They include manufacturers from China like BYD, SMART, the GEELY Group, AVATR, JIYUE, SERES, Chang An, HONGQI, GAC International and many more. This…

Jun 06, 2024 Buzz

“125 years of Automobile Production”: Opel Invites Employees and Public to Anniversary Celebration with Numerous Highlights

Opel has been producing automobiles for 125 years. 125 years in which the brand has made millions of people mobile and inspired them with many innovations. Opel is celebrating the anniversary this Saturday, June 8, with an open day at the Opel headquarters in Rüsselsheim. In keeping with the anniversary motto “Forever forward since 1899”, customers, employees and the public, as well as guests of…

Jun 05, 2024 Buzz

Toyota South Africa Motors Backs the Ultimate Human Race

A partnership spanning two decades, Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) continues its support of the 2024 Comrades Marathon. With just 4 days left, the 97th Comrades Marathon will be the 49th Up Run on Sunday, 9 June 2024, starting at the Durban City Hall at 05h30 and ending 12 hours later at the Scottsville Racecourse in Pietermaritzburg, covering a distance of 85.91km. A big part of the Comrades…

Jun 05, 2024 Buzz

MAN Automotive South Africa Honours Excellence at the Annual Dealer of The Year Awards

MAN Truck and Bus Kimberley Wins 2023 Dealer of The Year. MAN Automotive, a renowned truck and bus manufacturer, celebrated another year of outstanding achievements at its highly anticipated Annual Dealer of The Year Awards ceremony. The event, which took place in Johannesburg on Thursday 16 May 2024, brought together employees, partners, and stakeholders to recognise and commend excellence…

Jun 05, 2024 Buzz

South Africa’s 2024 election: what the numbers tell us

This election was a seismic disaster for the ruling African National Congress (ANC), and also might not be as good for its breakaway uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) faction as widely presumed. What the ANC laments might be what the country needs. This is an entirely apolitical observation. It refers only to the historic opportunity afforded to policy experts during periods of political turmoil when parties…

Jun 05, 2024 Buzz

FMF calls for ‘No-alition’ government in SA

The Free Market Foundation (FMF) has urged political parties in South Africa to reject all possible coalition arrangements in favour of a ‘no-alition’ confidence-and-supply alternative. In the wake of the historic 29 May election, which saw South African voters elect a Parliament without a clear majority for any party, the FMF believes political leaders should respect these wishes by not…

Jun 04, 2024 Buzz

Lasizwe Dambuza and Thea Booysen welcomed to the Volvo family as EX30 Champions

In line with the EX30’s futuristic design and focus on disrupting the electric car market, Thea and Lasizwe proved to be the perfect fit as EX30 Champions. Volvo Car South Africa is excited to welcome Lasizwe Dambuza and Thea Booysen to the Volvo family as EX30 Champions in celebration of Volvo’s most affordable electric car, the EX30. Multi-award-winning YouTuber and reality TV star Lasizwe…

Jun 04, 2024 Buzz

Hyundai Relies on Continental’s Original Equipment Expertise for its Tucson

The Hyundai Motor Group relies on Continental’s original equipment expertise for its Tucson. The South Korean car manufacturer has given Continental three approvals for its SUV. The Tucson runs worldwide from the factory on either energy-saving EcoContact 6 or comfort-optimized PremiumContact 6 tyres. For the Asia-Pacific region, Hyundai has also approved the CrossContact LX Sport, which is…

Jun 04, 2024 Buzz

Excitement builds for East London Motor Mech Show at Port Rex

With just under two weeks to go, excitement is building in preparation for the third successive Motor Mech show which is once again being held by the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), at the Port Rex Technical High School in East London on 15 June. The event happens every year close to or on Youth Day - a day…

Jun 04, 2024 Buzz

Toyota still South Africa’s go to car brand

Toyota South Africa Motors’ market share showed a steady increase, landing at 23,7%, moving 1,3% notches up compared to the previous month. Domestic new vehicle sales in May 2024 were at 37,105 units, reflected a substantial decrease of 6,137 units, or a loss of 14,2%, from the 43,242 vehicles sold in May the previous year. However, Toyota has once again shown its resilience by posting a leading…

Jun 04, 2024 Buzz

Continental and Clariant: celebrating 75 years of safe braking technology

Automotive multinational, Continental, and specialty chemicals company, Clariant, are celebrating the 75th anniversary of a collaboration that has helped to push the evolution of vehicle braking technology and safety. “In our close collaboration with Clariant spanning over seven decades we celebrate a shared history of industry innovation,” said Mariya Eneva, Continental’s Global Category Manager…

Jun 04, 2024 Buzz

Lessons Learnt for Africa: How Other Developing Countries Industrialised

As Africa stands on the brink of significant economic transformation, the lessons learnt from the industrialisation journeys of countries like South Korea and China offer invaluable insights. These nations have successfully transitioned from low-income economies to global industrial powerhouses, and their experiences can guide Africa in crafting its own path to sustainable development and…

Jun 04, 2024 Buzz

JLR rolls out menopause support policy for colleagues - the latest addition to a suite of wellness policies

JLR’s new support policy will provide employees with menopause symptoms with support and guidance. The policy was developed with help and feedback from colleagues, employee-led diversity networks and was agreed upon jointly with the trade union. Under the new policy JLR employees experiencing symptoms of menopause have the right to seek support at any time and from day one of their employment.…

Jun 04, 2024 Buzz

Wesbank: New vehicle sales out-voted by elections

South Africans voted with their feet during May, focusing on the election polls rather than vehicle showroom floors. New vehicle sales declined 14,2% year-on-year as consumers and business played their final waiting card in search of political stability. “While the politics will play out during June, the new vehicle market will hopefully be able to display more positivity during the second half…

Jun 04, 2024 Buzz

Attention all employers: 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…

Jun 04, 2024 Buzz

NADA: Election impacts on South Africa’s vehicle sales figures in May

“As expected, the general election and the accompanying uncertainty about South Africa’s future have severely impacted vehicle sales in May, with overall sales tumbling by 14.2% to a total of 37,105 units,” said Brandon Cohen, Chairperson of the National Automobile Dealers’ Association (NADA), commenting on the retail sales figures for May, which were distributed by naamsa | The Automotive…

Jun 04, 2024 Buzz

Several charities will benefit from funds raised through ISUZU Foundation & IRONMAN 4 The Kids

The ISUZU Foundation, a partnership between ISUZU Motors South Africa (ISUZU) and its Dealer Network, has handed over an amount of R131 900 to the Ironman4theKidz, an official charity organisation for the IRONMAN, which supports four charities in Durban. The funds raised from entries of the ISUZU IRONMAN 70.3 Durban held over the weekend will be distributed amongst Bobbi Bear, Likhona iThemba,…

Jun 04, 2024 Buzz

naamsa: National election jitters impacted new vehicle sales

The encouraging performance in the new vehicle market during April 2024 was short-lived as national election jitters applied a handbrake on purchases of big-ticket items such as vehicles. Reflecting on the new vehicle sales statistics naamsa | The Automotive Business Council said that the welcomed uptick in new vehicle sales during April 2024 could unfortunately not repeat itself during the Month…

Jun 03, 2024 Buzz

ECDC announces R50 Million automotive operator blended finance scheme

The Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC) today launched in Gqeberha a R50 million blended finance scheme designed for emerging Eastern Cape-based micro, small and medium sized automotive component suppliers, and aftermarket service providers. Introducing the Automotive Operator Blended Finance Scheme, ECDC chief executive officer Ayanda Wakaba says the focus on this segment of the market…

Jun 03, 2024 Buzz

Strategies for talent retention and growth

Attracting and retaining top talent is a multifaceted endeavour that requires a strategic and holistic approach. Pienaar Zietsman, Chief Financial Officer at Amplifin – a leading payment solutions company - comments on strategies to nurture a thriving workforce and drive organisational growth. Cultivating a Purpose-Driven Culture According to Zietsman, aligning the workforce with a shared purpose…

Jun 03, 2024 Buzz

Positive fuel outlook for motorists in June

Association again calls for fuel price review saying it is now long overdue A stronger average Rand/ US Dollar exchange rate in May, and lower international product prices are driving local fuel pricing downward and South Africans can expect good news when official fuel data is adjusted for June. The Automobile Association (AA) says unaudited data from the Central Energy Fund (CEF) is indicating…

Jun 03, 2024 Buzz

EQUIP AUTO presents its new event: THE EXTRA MILE

EQUIP AUTO, the international benchmark event for automotive aftersales and services for connected mobility, today announced the launch of its brand new event: THE EXTRA MILE by EQUIP AUTO, which will be held on Wednesday 16 October 2024 at La Seine Musicale in Paris. More than just another event, THE EXTRA MILE by EQUIP AUTO is the definitive new European business event that will bring together…

Jun 03, 2024 Buzz

Windscreen need replacement? Beware of substandard parts

Modern windscreens are considered a “life and limb” part of any modern vehicle. The windscreen forms part of the structure of the vehicle. It is one of the most important safety devices on a vehicle body and is considered a safety critical component. If the incorrect glass is used or the windscreen is fitted badly, the weakened structure of the vehicle is highly dangerous to occupants as well as…

Jun 03, 2024 Buzz

Executive Pay: A Ticking Time Bomb or a Reward for Success?

“In the world of business, crafting an effective incentive plan for executives can be as nuanced as a gourmet recipe—get the mix wrong, and you could end up with something less palatable than expected. It's a high-stakes game where the ingredients include ambition, strategy, and a pinch of good old behavioural science. So, grab your metaphorical aprons, and let's cook up a storm with some key…

Jun 03, 2024 Buzz

Basis of Singapore’s outperformance should be blueprint for SA

By Temba A Nolutshungu, a director of the Free Market Foundation The dire socioeconomic distress that afflicts SA, as manifested in the downward spiralling of economic growth — especially if one factors in population — is wholly and exclusively a consequence of the statist, interventionist socialist policies of government. Two facts show the magnitude of our cataclysmic state of affairs. As…

Jun 03, 2024 Buzz

Leading Automotive Magazine Honors DENSO's Judy Finn

― Finn inducted into aftermarketNews' 2024 Class of Women at the Wheel ― Leading automotive industry magazine, aftermarketNews, has named DENSO's National Account Sales Manager Judy Finn to its 2024 Class of Women at the Wheel. Each year, the business-to-business trade magazine recognizes women whose leadership, business acumen and innovation have strengthened the automotive aftermarket. "AMN's…

Jun 03, 2024 Buzz

Tyrexpo Asia 2024 creates an enthusiastic storm in Bangkok

The recent Tyrexpo Asia 2024 show held in Bangkok was proven to be an outstanding success as the very first dedicated Tyre & Accessories Equipment show staged in Thailand, by the event organisers, Informa Markets. The event was jointly opened by guest of honour, Captain Thammannt Prompau – Minister of Agriculture & Cooperatives Thailand, Mr Nakorn Tangavirapal – Governor of the Rubber Authority…

May 31, 2024 Buzz

‘Smokers and vapers also have rights,’ FMF tells government on World No-Tobacco Day

Earlier this month, the Gauteng High Court interdicted the South African Revenue Service (SARS) from installing 24/7 CCTV cameras in cigarette warehouses. The Free Market Foundation (FMF) celebrates this vindication of the property and privacy rights of South Africans, especially today, 31 May, on the World Health Organisation (WHO)’s World No-Tobacco Day. SARS utilised the bogeyman of tax…

May 31, 2024 Buzz

EVs Aren’t Going Anywhere …

They’re EVerywhere: Electric Vehicles & the Automotive Aftermarket Special tools. Special training. Special products. While they might have wheels and windshields, electric vehicles are nothing like their predecessors — and understanding their requirements is more essential than ever. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), over 500 electric car models are available worldwide and…

May 31, 2024 Buzz

Hyundai sends off first graduates of sales cadet programme to its dealerships

The first intake of young people attending Hyundai Automotive South Africa’s Sales Cadet Programme has graduated after almost three months of training, and have already taken up their positions at dealerships in Hyundai’s countrywide network. The seventeen graduates who passed their tests and exams received their certificates from Gideon Jansen van Rensburg, CEO of Hyundai Automotive South…

May 31, 2024 Buzz

Another Successful Harvest Day - Engen and Nampo celebrate 40+ years together

Engen, a proud gold sponsor of the Nampo Harvest Day, celebrated its long-standing partnership with the event by welcoming visitors to its interactive stand and ever-popular Vintage Tractor Museum at this year’s event, which ran from 14-17 May. Engen's enduring commitment to the agricultural industry was again on full display at the Bothaville-based event, showcasing its innovative and…

May 30, 2024 Buzz

Young entrepreneur embodies the spirit of youth month

June is youth month and this year it will be celebrated under the theme “Accelerating youth economic emancipation for a sustainable future.” No one epitomises the potential of youth more than 26 year old Dylan Petzer, who heads up several SMEs and says the support from his industry body in the tyre sector – TEPA (The Tyre Equipment Parts Association) – is invaluable and the ‘village’ behind his…

May 30, 2024 Buzz

Stellantis Announces Changes in Leadership Team

Stellantis has announced the following organizational changes, effective June 1, 2024. Luca Napolitano is appointed Chief Sales & Marketing Officer in addition to his current responsibility as Lancia brand CEO. Luca replaces Thierry Koskas who, after successfully creating the foundations of the global sales and marketing function, will now dedicate his strong sales and marketing expertise to the…

May 30, 2024 Buzz

Autopromotec 2025 goes green

New digital registration procedure opened, organisers becoming more focused on sustainability. Growth trend confirmed with pre-registrations Autopromotec, the automotive equipment and aftermarket exhibition scheduled from 21 to 24 May 2025 at the Bologna exhibition centre, celebrates an important milestone: 30 biennial editions, 60 years of history. On the eve of a truly historic edition, the…

May 29, 2024 Buzz

Leaders in modern British luxury: Range Rover announced as Official Partner of The Championships, Wimbledon

Range Rover has announced its official partnership with The Championships, Wimbledon, bringing together for the first time the oldest tennis tournament in the world, and the world’s foremost luxury SUV brand. The Championships is the quintessentially British sporting highlight of the summer. Viewed by millions globally, the prestigious Grand Slam tournament will be supported for the first time…

May 29, 2024 Buzz

Brazilian auto parts: Events, innovations, auto parts market, and more

Brazilian auto parts gain momentum at Automechanika Buenos Aires In the pavilion organized by Brasil Auto Parts, which was the scene of numerous trade negotiations, there was a record participation of 52 companies Exhibitors from 18 countries participated in the 2024 edition of the fair, a significant increase of 26% compared to 2022. Brazilian companies benefited from the attendance of more than…

May 29, 2024 Buzz

National Health Insurance and Lesufi’s honest appraisal of public health failures

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi made some incredulous announcements last week regarding the as yet un-birthed National Health Insurance (NHI). In full-blown campaigning mode he claimed in support of NHI: “After 29 May, any citizen can go to any hospital, private or public, to receive the best treatment and that afterwards government will pick up the bill”. Such shameless populism tells observers…

May 29, 2024 Buzz

The Manufacturing Indaba has partnered with WhatTheForesight

The Manufacturing Indaba has partnered with WhatTheForesight to understand your needs as a manufacturing business so we can create more engaging and applicable content and sessions for our next Indaba (on the 22 – 23 October 2024). You will be able to see the data for your own company thereby improving your performance and ensure you are "future fit." WhatTheForesight is a powerful tool that can…

May 29, 2024 Buzz

THE TIRE COLOGNE 2024 - The essential global meeting place for the tire and wheel industry

From 4 to 6 June, THE TIRE COLOGNE 2024 will once again present itself as the indispensable global meeting place for professionals in the tire and wheel industry. With its unique global focus on tires and wheels, the trade fair is the number one platform for innovative solutions, knowledge exchange and business opportunities. "With a total of around 430 exhibitors from 35 countries, we have…

May 28, 2024 Buzz

Peugeot and Captain Cause have joined forces

ALLOWING EMPLOYEES OF THE AUTOMOTIVE BRAND TO SUPPORT EDUCATIONAL, SOLIDARITY-BASED, AND ECOLOGICAL INITIATIVES ALLURE – PEUGEOT focuses its efforts on education, the key to a sustainable world. EMOTION – PEUGEOT is proud to support major environmental education programs. EXCELLENCE – PEUGEOT funds a donation campaign for its employees through the Captain Cause platform. Since 2023, PEUGEOT has…

May 28, 2024 Buzz

Rising Above - Mangie Magadagela’s rise to the top at Michelin’s mining division

In the traditionally male dominated field of mining, one woman is shattering glass ceilings and paving the way for diversity and innovation. Mangie Magadalega is a trailblazer in the mining industry, who is leading the charge with a steadfast dedication to forging meaningful connections and pioneering groundbreaking solutions. Hailing from a small town in Venda, Thohoyandou, she epitomises the…

May 28, 2024 Buzz

MasterDrive reflects on the last 25 years

The MasterDrive team marked the organisation’s 25th anniversary during a team get together. Memories spanning the last 25 years were shared and appreciation expressed for the integral people and events that shaped MasterDrive into what it is today. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says it was a proud moment to look back over the 25-year history and reflect on triumphs and tribulations.…

May 28, 2024 Buzz

MIWA launches Short Skills Training Project to upskill members

In a significant step to address crucial skill gaps within the automotive aftermarket repair and maintenance sector, the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), together with the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), have secured R23,5 million funding from merSETA for a number of critical technical and non-technical short skills programmes identified by members. This is the largest…

May 27, 2024 Buzz

Chery honours top dealers, partners and customers at gala event

hery South Africa hosted its dealers, business partners and key customers at a gala event in Sandton on Friday, 24 May. The event celebrated the past year’s record-breaking performance and honoured the best dealers in the Chery network. Chery also used the opportunity to call some of its largest customers and business partners to the stage to thank them for their business. “It is hard to believe…

May 27, 2024 Buzz

New Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale triumphs at “Concorso di Eleganza di Villa d'Este”

At the renowned “Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este” – which since 1929 has crowned the most beautiful vintage cars, as well as the most fascinating prototypes since 2022 – the new Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale won the coveted “Design Concept Award,” confirming it as a unique and unrepeatable work of art in motion. This is the fifth time an Alfa Romeo car has received this award, to follow the Brera, 8C…

May 27, 2024 Buzz

Enhancing biodiversity is in Volkswagen’s nature

Achieving a Zero Impact Factory involves more than just transitioning to renewable energy and conserving water; it also requires enhancing biodiversity. In celebration of Biodiversity Day on May 22, Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA) employees planted Plumbago Auriculata (also known as Cape Plumbago) at its main production plant in Kariega. This beautiful blue indigenous flower is rich in nectar and…

May 27, 2024 Buzz

The ‘rooi gevaar’: it’s not okay to be a socialist

Bell Pottinger is back. For at least a few months now, not one social media thread about the Democratic Alliance (DA) or another party in the Multi-Party Charter (MPC) goes by without someone accusing them of ‘ fearmongering. The reality is simpler: There has never been a in South Africa, but the ‘has been, and is, ever-present. The latest ‘scandal’ ̶ if it can be called that – is the DA’s…

May 27, 2024 Buzz

Toyota hands over brand-new Quantum to SA’s Para-Sports National Champs winning school Frances Vorwerg

Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM), in support of the South Africa Sports Association for the Physically Disabled (SASAPD), today handed over a brand-new Toyota Quantum to the Frances Vorwerg School for scholars with Cerebral Palsy and Learning Disabilities. The Johannesburg South based school was announced as the prize winner of a brand-new Toyota Quantum for having the top performing…

May 27, 2024 Buzz

Renault announces Dealer of The year Award winners

Renault South Africa, part of Motus, held its Annual Dealer of the Year Awards ceremony recently, honouring dealerships and motor groups for their success in 2023. Held at The Maslow Time Square in Pretoria, the annual gala event shone a spotlight on the top dealers’ unwavering commitment to excellence and outstanding contributions throughout the year. The top honours in the category for large…

May 27, 2024 Buzz

Steel import duties and a shrinking steel manufacturing industry: An open letter to Minister Patel by Gerhard Papenfus, CE of NEASA

24 May 2024 Minister Ebrahim Patel Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) and Mr Ayabonga Cawe Chief Commissioner (ITAC) Dear Minister Patel STEEL IMPORT DUTIES AND A SHRINKING STEEL MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY Government’s continued interventions to protect an ailing AMSA, will not only fail to save AMSA in the long run, but will substantially contribute to the gradual erosion of the…

May 24, 2024 Buzz

South Africa’s unique path to internet dominance

South Africa's digital landscape is evolving rapidly, with the country occupying the top spot for time spent online in the fourth quarter of 2023. Internet users in South Africa spent more than nine hours and 32 minutes online per day, ranking first among the regions worldwide. This appetite for data consumption is driven by rapid smartphone adoption. As of 2023, about 20 to 22 million South…

May 24, 2024 Buzz

Codifying all crimes in South Africa now a necessity, FMF tells Parliament

The Free Market Foundation (FMF) is encouraging the new Parliament that will be sworn in after the general election to adopt legislation that codifies all of South Africa’s criminal law. The draft Criminal Code Bill, which the FMF published today, enables Parliament to do so without delay. South Africa is unique in the world for its astronomical rates of violent crime. Around 86 people are…

May 24, 2024 Buzz

The industry of automotive suppliers in Spain hits a new record in 2023 with exports over €25,186 million

In a year marked by economic challenges at the international stage, the Spanish industry of automotive suppliers has been differential again by closing 2023 with record exports reaching a 10.9% increase compared with the previous year, a great year for the sector. This remarkable increase shows the excellence, innovation and competitiveness of Spanish automotive component suppliers in worldwide…

May 24, 2024 Buzz

The South African taxpayer needs a break

In South Africa, we are subjected to a state that provides education, healthcare, and employment for citizens. However, since a state does not generate any funds without those very citizens being taxed first, this has led to high taxation rates for the small segment of the population that is employed. If you are employed and earn above R95,750 per year, then you are familiar with Personal Income…

May 24, 2024 Buzz

Occupation Health and Safety - New hazardous chemical regulations

AMENDED OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE LIMITS IMPOSSIBLE TO COMPLY WITH The Department of Employment and Labour (DoEL), on 5 April 2024, published new Draft Regulations for Hazardous Chemical Agents for public comment. One of the most concerning amendments contained in the draft regulations, is the lowering of the occupational exposure limit (OEL) for Styrene from 40ppm to 20ppm. The OEL for Styrene was…

May 24, 2024 Buzz

MICHELIN Connected Fleet lends its voice to the CILTA Safety and Security Summit

MICHELIN Connected Fleet has once again demonstrated its support towards strengthening South Africa’s transport and logistics sector by sponsoring the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILTA) Safety and Security summit. The theme of the summit was Navigating Safety and Security Risks in Logistics, Transport and Supply Chain. The event brought together leading local and international…

May 24, 2024 Buzz

NADA highlights economic challenges and opportunities for South Africa's Auto Finance and Insurance Sector

The National Automobile Dealers' Association (NADA) today released a comprehensive overview of the current economic conditions impacting the auto sector. This detailed analysis emphasises the vital role motor dealers/retailers play in helping customers navigate the challenging economic environment. "As we navigate through a period of significant economic uncertainty, the role of automotive…

May 24, 2024 Buzz

ISUZU Motors South Africa joins forces with Rally to Read to promote literacy in Nelson Mandela Bay

ISUZU Motors South Africa (ISUZU) is proud to announce its partnership with Rally to Read, an organisation committed to promoting literacy and education in South Africa. This collaboration further emphasises ISUZU's dedication to driving positive change and empowering communities through education. Results from the most recent Progress International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS) showed that in…

May 23, 2024 Buzz

Game-Changer for Oceanic Studies: FWF and the Ford Ranger Drive Innovation in Marine Research

The Ford Wildlife Foundation (FWF) proudly supports Sea Search Research and Conservation (SSRC) NPC, a leading marine research organisation founded in 2014 by Dr Simon Elwen and Dr Tess Gridley. Through the invaluable assistance of the versatile Ford Ranger provided by the FWF, Sea Search has made significant strides in marine research, and conservation across Southern Africa. Project overview…

May 23, 2024 Buzz

Jeep® Brand Launches All-new All-electric Jeep Wagoneer S Film 'Surpass Yourself'

The Jeep® brand today released “Surpass Yourself” on its official YouTube channel. The teaser film profiles the all-new, all-electric Jeep Wagoneer S – the brand’s first global BEV, launching first in the United States and Canada. The Jeep Wagoneer S will be revealed May 30, 2024, in New York City.

May 23, 2024 Buzz

Criminal Background Checks: Discrimination ... unless inherent job requirement

by Kobus Hayward In the recent judgment of Connor v LexisNexis, the Labour Court found that the employee was unfairly discriminated against due to an offer of employment being retracted after a criminal background check confirmed that the employee had past convictions. Despite much publicity, this judgment does not change the law in any way. It simply confirmed that criminal background checks may…

May 23, 2024 Buzz

Lexus continues partnership with the RMB Latitudes Art Fair

The RMB Latitudes Art Fair returns to Johannesburg from Friday, 24 – Sunday, 26 May for its second edition at the Shepstone Gardens with Lexus South Africa as its exclusive vehicle partner. Notably the largest online marketplace for art from Africa, the RMB Art Fair offers visitors a unique experience that brings together the art community from across the diaspora and this year will prove no…

May 23, 2024 Buzz

Fast cats and fast cars collide for good

This month, the racing suit of one of F1s brightest young stars, Oscar Piastri, went up for auction to raise much needed funds for the Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre at the De Wildt Cheetah Research Centre near Hartbeespoort. The suit was worn during Piastri’s amazing rookie season in Qatar in 2023 where he scored his very first Sprint win and first career 2nd place in a Grand Prix which is still his…

May 23, 2024 Buzz

Should business be playing a more definite role with Government?

Speaking at the 2024 F&I Industry Virtual Summit, hosted in conjunction with NADA (National Automobile Dealers’ Association) on 21 May, Ipeleng Mabusela, Chief Executive Strategy and Corporate Support of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), spoke candidly about the organisation’s views on factors impacting the South African economy and how these could potentially impact the motor…

May 22, 2024 Buzz

Engen and Vivo Energy combination completed, creating a pan-African energy champion

Engen and Vivo Energy are pleased to announce the completion of the transaction to combine their respective businesses, with PETRONAS today selling its 74% shareholding in Engen to Vivo Energy, creating a pan-African energy champion. The combined Vivo Energy Group now has over 3,900 service stations, and more than two billion litres of storage capacity across 28 African markets. The Phembani…

May 21, 2024 Buzz

naamsa Releases the Quarterly Review of Business Conditions Report for Quarter 1, 2024

KEY FEATURES: FIRST QUARTER 2024 2024 marks the centenary celebration of vehicle manufacturing in South Africa when domestic assembly operations began with the iconic Model T Ford on 19 January 1924; First quarter 2024 aggregate industry employment as at 31st March 2024 totalled 33,374 reflecting a decline of 5 jobs compared to the 33,379 industry head count as at the end of December 2023; Aggregate new…

May 21, 2024 Buzz

Carmakers Grossed Over $20 Trillion in the Past Decade, more than China`s GDP

Rising costs, high interest rates, slow consumer spending, and supply chain disruptions have made 2024 another challenging year for the global automotive industry. But despite the fourth year of hardship, carmakers have still managed to generate impressive revenue over the past decade. According to data presented by Stocklytics.com, carmakers worldwide have grossed over $20 trillion since 2014 or…

May 21, 2024 Buzz

Powering sustainability through EV battery manufacturing for a greener future

To achieve global Net Zero emissions by 2050, manufacturers are embracing more sustainable practices. A key player in this has become the electric vehicle (EV) sector which is expected to account for 60% of global car sales by 2030. This means that EV batteries have become a crucial enabler in the shift from traditional fossil fuels to cleaner, renewable energy sources. The global EV battery…

May 21, 2024 Buzz

South Africa’s top-performing motor industry F&I managers revealed  

Lightstone Auto’s Star Reacher F&I Awards recognise industry trailblazers Lightstone Auto announced, at a ceremony over the weekend, the top-performing motor industry F&I managers at its 2023/2024 Lightstone Star Reacher F&I Awards which took place at Ivory Manor Boutique Hotel in Pretoria on Saturday. Lightstone Auto launched the Star Reacher F&I Awards three years ago with the aim of…

May 21, 2024 Buzz

Informal Workshop Webinar: 20 June 2024: Discipline, Absenteeism and Desertion

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…

May 21, 2024 Buzz

Tata International continues its enduring support and partnership with Operation Smile South Africa

Tata International reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to Operation Smile South Africa (OSSA) during an emotional and heartwarming gathering at the office of its subsidiary Tata Africa Holdings in Sandton. The occasion marked the annual donation handover, highlighting Tata International's ongoing dedication to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and its profound impact on communities.…

May 21, 2024 Buzz

Does the ‘free market’ lead to public sector corruption? Of course not

In 2020, Buddy Wells, a musician and MMT-enthusiast, wrote an article that, in broad terms, argues that South Africa’s pursuit of ‘neoliberal’ free-market reforms is what inevitably led to out-of-control tender corruption and state inefficiencies. This is obviously wrong. Buddy and I are regular sparring partners online. One of our enduring points of disagreement is about the value of money.…

May 21, 2024 Buzz

Upskilling and reskilling the transport industry at the 42nd annual SATC 

South Africa’s transport industry plays a critical role in the overall development of the country. However, the industry faces many challenges, including ageing infrastructure, skills shortage, and slow adaptation to changing technologies. To address these issues and more, the 42nd annual Southern African Transport Conference (SATC) is set to take place from 8 to 11 July at the CSIR in Pretoria,…

May 21, 2024 Buzz

Employment Equity 2024 EE reporting period

All designated employers must submit their 2024 Employment Equity (EE) reports via the online system of the Department of Employment and Labour. The 2024 EE reporting period will open from 1 September 2024 to 15 January 2025. NEASA empowers businesses to navigate EE requirements without compromising on merit-based employment practices. Contact NEASA now for assistance with the submission of your…

May 21, 2024 Buzz

Registration for Automechanika 2024 is open

Registration for the ninth Automechanika happening from 19-21 November 2024 at the Johannesburg Expo Center is now open. South Africa’s premier international trade fair for the automotive aftermarket and service industry is back at NASREC once again! The 2024 show will welcome trade visitors from across the Sub-Saharan Region, just like before. Register Now

May 21, 2024 Buzz

Mercedes-Benz South Africa and the Gift of the Givers Foundation team up to revamp Gqala Primary School in the Eastern Cape

Mercedes-Benz South Africa (MBSA) and the Gift of the Givers Foundation have joined forces to restore and enhance Gqala Primary School in Tsholomnqa, Eastern Cape. The school, home to over 150 learners, faced displacement and educational disruptions following the aftermath of gale-force winds in 2023. The collaboration, valued at R2.5 million saw the reconstruction and refurbishment of the school…

May 21, 2024 Buzz

NEASA’s Skills Development service assists your company in complying with the ever-changing labour regulations and maximises the benefits of skills development

We will collaborate with your team to plan and execute effective skills training strategies, ensuring your staff receives the best possible professional growth opportunities. Moreover, we provide guidance on navigating the legislative landscape, helping you to benefit from potential incentives while maintaining full compliance. Let us turn your skills development into a strategic advantage for…