Mar 17, 2025 Buzz

Hennie Terreblanche and Saood Variawa triumph in 2025 Toyota Fortuner Challenge

The 2025 Toyota Fortuner Challenge has concluded in spectacular fashion, with 27-year-old software engineer and part-time CrossFit coach Hennie Terreblanche emerging victorious alongside his hero teammate, Saood Variawa. The duo demonstrated outstanding endurance, teamwork, and strategy across a series of grueling challenges in the picturesque Overberg region. The Toyota Fortuner Challenge,…

Mar 14, 2025 Buzz

Facing death every night

According to unconfirmed reports, delivery bike riders are facing a new and deadly threat on the roads. Recently, medics have responded to several incidents where riders were killed while on deliveries. it is believed criminals are positioning thin cables across roadways slightly above shoulder level which causes severe injuries, and often death, to riders passing through these areas. The CEO of…

Mar 14, 2025 Buzz

Take charge of the health of your car’s battery

Most drivers know that if you leave the lights on or play DJ for your friends at the dam for hours your car’s battery is going to go into deep snooze mode. There are actually many other common causes of a flat battery, but luckily it’s quite easy to sort out – if you have jumper cables or some burly friends to give the car a push start. However, if you ignore the niggly tell-tale signs of a…

Mar 14, 2025 Buzz

Chery accelerates hybrid innovation with global R&D and CSH technology

As the automotive industry transitions towards new energy vehicles, Chery has formally set the strategic goal of establishing itself as the world’s number one hybrid brand. Leveraging a comprehensive global research and development (R&D) network, Chery is rapidly advancing in the hybrid sector with a strategy of ‘technological redundancy.’ This approach goes beyond mere quantitive expansion; it…

Mar 14, 2025 Buzz

Tech Girl’s tech favourites in the new Jetour Dashing

When launching in September last year, the new SUV brand Jetour was on the lookout for local lifestyle, travel, and tech influencers who would authentically embody the brand’s authenticity, passion, and creativity. With her background as an international eSports host and content creator, fitness fanatic and lover of all things tech, TechGirl, Samantha Wright, was one of the standout choices. The…

Mar 13, 2025 Buzz

Killarney Astron Energy Polo Cup Thriller

The 2025 Astron Energy Polo Cup kicked off with a stunning display of racing action at the season opening Extreme Festival powered by Coca Cola at Cape Town’s Killarney International Raceway on Saturday. Ethan Coetzee picked off Mo Karodia and newcomer Shrien Rajpaul to win the first race before Rory Atkinson took the second race and Karodia took the third. Wayne Masters beat race 1 winner John…

Mar 13, 2025 Buzz

Rookie Cup racers raise the bar at Killarney

The Volkswagen Rookie Cup delivered racing of the highest orders as its young drivers showed talent and nerve way beyond their years and experience to thrill the Cape Town Killarney International Raceway’s first round National Extreme Festival powered by Coca-Cola on Saturday. “Our 2025 Volkswagen Cup Rookies have certainly raised the bar,” Volkswagen Head of Motorsport Mike Rowe reflected after…

Mar 13, 2025 Buzz

Positive start for Volkswagen Motorsport

Volkswagen Motorsport enjoyed a positive start to its 2025 racing season at Killarney’s Extreme Festival powered by Coca-Cola in Cape Town on Saturday. South African champion Jonathan Mogotsi ended a fighting third ahead of rookie Astron Polo Cup champion teammate Jason Loosemore in his debut in the SATC SupaCup races. Rookie Cup champion Judd Bertholdt came home a solid eighth in his first…

Mar 13, 2025 Buzz

Barry Keoghan makes a dramatic entrance in Jaguar Type 00

Barry Keoghan, Irish actor, turned heads during Paris Fashion Week in Jaguar Type 00 Type 00 makes its first public appearance in Europe since its unveiling during Miami Art Week in December 2024 Type 00 appears in new French Ultramarine, a bespoke colour synonymous with the arts and France Jaguar Type 00 is an example of Jaguar at its best. A design vision with bold forms and exuberant…

Mar 13, 2025 Buzz

ISUZU Motors South Africa Celebrates 20 Years of IRONMAN South Africa African Championship Remarkable Legacy

ISUZU Motors South Africa proudly celebrates IRONMAN South Africa African Championship 20th anniversary, marking two decades of success and growth in the country. Since 2009, ISUZU and IRONMAN South Africa African Championship have built a powerful, mutually beneficial partnership. What started as an official vehicle sponsor has grown into a title sponsorship, reinforcing the strong connection…

Mar 13, 2025 Buzz

Mrs Soweto contestants empowered

The contestants of Mrs Soweto 2025 were hosted by MasterDrive and WesBank at a recent empowerment event. This year’s contestants had the opportunity to attend a road safety workshop as well as a hijack extraction demonstration. It will empower the ladies with the ability to have greater awareness and know what to do should the worst happen. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says it was a…

Mar 13, 2025 Buzz

Innovative Q4 technology debuts on Junior, now with the most comprehensive line-up in the segment

Everything is ready for the dynamic debut of the Junior Hybrid Q4, an event that will give international journalists the opportunity to find out the nitty-gritty and test drive the evolution of Q4 technology, now the characteristic feature of the brand’s entire offering. This completes the launch of the Junior model, now available in 38 countries. Only a few months since launch, it has racked up…

Mar 13, 2025 Buzz

Ford Introduces Tourneo Custom Active: Same People-Moving Capability, Even Better Value

Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (Manufacturing) (Pty) Ltd (“Ford South Africa”) is bolstering its Tourneo Custom range with the addition of a new Active model that offers even better value than the current Trend derivative, while retaining the exceptional comfort, space and versatility that this practical people-mover is renowned for. “The current Tourneo Custom Trend was launched last year…

Mar 12, 2025 Buzz

Silica in Tyres has Enabled Greater Safety and Sustainability on the Roads for Three Decades

Thirty years ago, Continental used silica for the very first time in its tread compounds for car tyres. The properties of this filler revolutionised the driving safety and energy efficiency of tyres. Rolling resistance has been significantly reduced, and braking distances have since been cut by nearly 50 percent. This was made possible by the special surface properties of silica, which can form…

Mar 12, 2025 Buzz

Stellantis to Participate in Wolfe Research Virtual Auto Summit

Stellantis Chief Financial Officer Doug Ostermann will participate in a fireside chat at the Wolfe Research Virtual Auto Summit on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, from 1:20 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. EDT / 6:20 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. CET. To watch the live session, visit the following webcast link: https://wolferesearch.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_iVF5tBzFRMWwTJwnl-8BMQ Details for watching the fireside chat are also…

Mar 11, 2025 Buzz

Continental Presents Advances in Measurement Methods and Sustainability

Continental was represented with four technical presentations at this year’s Tire Technology Expo conference held from March 4 to 6 in Hanover. Jorge Almeida, Head of Sustainability at Continental Tires, and Prof. Burkhard Wies, Head of Applied Research and Innovation at Continental Tires, opened the conference with a presentation on the company’s sustainability strategy on March 4, 2025. The…

Mar 11, 2025 Buzz

Digi Cars Group Accelerates Action: Driving Women’s Success in the Automotive Industry

As the world unites to celebrate International Women's Day this March under the theme “Accelerate Action,” Digi Cars Group proudly reaffirms its commitment to championing, supporting, and empowering women in the automotive sector. In an industry historically dominated by men, the Group is setting new standards for inclusivity, growth, and equal opportunities. At Digi Cars Group, women are not…

Mar 11, 2025 Buzz

Chery celebrates historic milestone with one-millionth Tiggo 4 export

Chery reached a landmark milestone earlier this month by exporting the one-millionth Tiggo 4 to global markets. The vehicle departed from Dalian Port in China, where a special event celebrated this significant achievement. Senior executives from Chery, key members from the Dalian Free Trade Zone, global partners, and media representatives gathered to witness the momentous occasion. “The Tiggo 4…

Mar 11, 2025 Buzz

Counting down to another unforgettable edition of the #CAPE1000 Road Rally

Join us as we count down to a classic motoring experience like no other. The highly anticipated Cape 1000® motor vehicle rally, proudly sponsored by Private Clients by Old Mutual Wealth, returns in 2025 to celebrate the timeless beauty of automotive engineering and design paraded along South Africa’s most beautiful drive - a classic motoring experience not to be missed. From 16 to 21 March 2025,…

Mar 11, 2025 Buzz

Behind the Lines: Jeep® Designers Unveil the Creative Vision for the Avenger 4xe

The Jeep® Avenger 4xe, a game-changer in the B-SUV segment and now, Jeep is offering a behind-the-scenes look into its creation with an exclusive four-part video series. This captivating journey delves into the meticulous process that shaped the Avenger 4xe—one fuelled by real-world demands, cutting-edge innovation, and the passion of its designers. Every legendary vehicle has an origin story—one…

Mar 10, 2025 Buzz

Diversity Counts: How Opel Models Meet Women's Demands

March 8 is International Women's Day. However, diversity, inclusion and equality are not only a top priority at Opel on this annual day of celebration. Instead these principles are a fundamental part of the corporate culture. The women's perspective always plays a key role in the development of new models – for the benefit of all drivers and passengers as well as for the success of the brand.…

Mar 10, 2025 Buzz

Engen awards 131 bursaries as Engen Maths & Science School matrics achieve record 98% pass rate

Engen’s commitment to nurturing talent and fostering educational excellence has once again shone brightly, with the 2024 Engen Maths & Science School (EMSS) matric class achieving a record 98% overall pass rate. Speaking at the EMSS Cape Town Awards ceremony on Saturday, 8 March — held to celebrate top learners from the EMSS centres hosted at Cape Peninsula University of Technology and…

Mar 07, 2025 Buzz

The Toyota Gaming Engine (TTGE) hosts first-ever Brawl Stars tournament: Gaming for everyone

This exciting event celebrates inclusivity in gaming, welcoming players of all skill levels to join the action. A total of 128 competitors will take part in this groundbreaking competition, with a waiting list available for additional registrations—offering a chance to join before the 2nd qualifier on the 13th of March. Fresh faces for a Family Brawl Sports anchor, Motshidisi Mohono and actor,…

Mar 07, 2025 Buzz

Gleaming metal and old-fashioned fun for Classic Car Friday at 2025 Simola Hillclimb

There’s less than two months to go before the scenic Garden Route town of Knysna wakes up to the sights and sounds of roaring race-prepped engines and screeching tyres when Classic Car Friday kicks off the historic 15th edition of the Simola Hillclimb. While the competitive action for the 2025 Simola Hillclimb commences on Friday 2 May, there will be plenty of buzz and action around the Knysna…

Mar 07, 2025 Buzz

Toyota South Africa gears up for the Absa Cape Epic 2025

Toyota South Africa is ready to hit the dirt as the official vehicle and route partner of the Absa Cape Epic 2025, the most televised mountain bike race in the world. From 16 to 23 March 2025, elite mountain bikers and serious amateurs alike will push their limits across rugged terrain in a race that’s as gruelling as it is breathtaking. The Absa Cape Epic kicks off with a high-octane prologue on…

Mar 07, 2025 Buzz

Most Powerful Shelby GT350 In History Arrives for 60 Year Anniversary

To celebrate the 60th anniversary of the original Shelby GT350, Shelby American unveiled a new 2025 GT350 and GT350R, featuring a supercharged 5.0-liter V8 producing up to 810 horsepower, making it the most powerful GT350 in history. Power and Performance: The 2025 Shelby GT350 and GT350R feature a supercharged 5.0-liter V8 engine, delivering up to 810 horsepower. The GT350R takes performance to…

Mar 06, 2025 Buzz

New Ford Transit Van 350 LWB: Ready for Business

The new Transit Van 350 LWB is the latest addition to Ford’s commercial vehicle line-up, providing a capable and adaptable vehicle that is designed to serve the diverse needs of business and fleet customers across various industries. "The Ford Transit has been a stalwart for businesses across Europe for decades, and with the introduction of the Transit Van 350 LWB we're taking its capabilities to…

Mar 06, 2025 Buzz

GWM expands popular TANK 300 lineup with powerful new diesel model

GWM has reinforced its off-road dominance with the introduction of the new TANK 300 Diesel, a tough, fuel-efficient addition to its already popular TANK 300 range. Designed for South African adventurers, off-roaders and those who just need to get the job done, the Diesel variant combines rugged strength with premium SUV comfort, making it a formidable contender in the medium SUV segment. Diesel…

Mar 06, 2025 Buzz

Digi Cars Group Expands with the Launch of Omoda & Jaecoo Dealership in Melrose Arch

The Digi Cars Group is proud to announce the opening of its latest dealership, Omoda & Jaecoo Melrose Arch, which officially began operations in December 2024. This expansion has shown the Group's dedication to increasing its dealership range while providing South African customers with premier automotive experiences in one of Johannesburg's most vibrant precincts. Nestled in the northern suburbs…

Mar 06, 2025 Buzz

TRIB Showcases Innovation at 2025 TMC Annual Meeting & Transportation Technology Exhibition

The Tire Retread & Repair Information Bureau (TRIB) is pleased to announce its participation in the Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC) Annual Meeting & Transportation Technology Exhibition on March 10-13, 2025, at the Music City Center in Nashville, Tennessee. As a leading advocate for the tire retread and repair industry, TRIB is dedicated to promoting the economic and environmental benefits…

Mar 06, 2025 Buzz

An overview of the standard safety features in every Volvo vehicle

Since Volvo's founding in 1927, the brand has been committed to building safe, reliable vehicles capable of withstanding Sweden's harsh winters. Over the years, this commitment has made Volvo synonymous with safety, pioneering innovations like the three-point seatbelt in 1959. Today, safety is at the core of every Volvo model. Common standard features include Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane…

Mar 05, 2025 Buzz

Audi South Africa confirms pricing of facelifted A3 range, including updated RS 3 halo model

The Audi A3 and RS 3 Sportback and Sedan head into 2025 with a sportier look, refreshed design elements and enhanced standard specification. In addition, new materials have been applied for increased comfort, and highly specified and eye-catchingly designed Black Edition and Carbon Edition derivatives will form part of the range. Later this year, these models will be supplemented with the S3…

Mar 05, 2025 Buzz

The ultimate in exclusive sporting luxury: Range Rover Sport SV EDITION TWO now available in South Africa

Following the local debut of the segment-leading Range Rover Sport SV EDITION ONE, the much-anticipated Range Rover Sport SV EDITION TWO is now available in South Africa. Only 23 examples of Range Rover's flagship high-performance luxury SUV are available to order through select JLR retailers in South Africa. Range Rover Sport SV is the most powerful and dynamic Range Rover Sport, blending…

Mar 04, 2025 Buzz

Over 663 Million searches for cars: 2024 AutoTrader Annual Car Industry Report NOW LIVE

The SA Auto Industry is Changing Lanes! Learn all the changes and consumer market, demand and supply results in 2024! Download the Latest Report NOW

Mar 04, 2025 Buzz

Celebrating World Wildlife Day: Volvo and Shandor Larenty highlight electrified mobility's role in conservation

Volvo Car South Africa reinforces its commitment to sustainability by showcasing the benefits of electrified vehicles in wildlife preservation. As the world celebrates World Wildlife Day in March, Volvo Car South Africa reaffirms its commitment to sustainability and conservation through innovative mobility solutions. Recognising the crucial role of flora and fauna in maintaining a healthy…

Mar 04, 2025 Buzz

Automotive Business Review January - February 2025

Mar 04, 2025 Buzz

ISUZU continues to invest in education through The Herald ISUZU School's Quiz partnership

Isuzu Motors South Africa (ISUZU) is proud to continue as the co-title sponsor for The Herald ISUZU Schools Quiz, an initiative which aims to foster development in literacy and to stimulate learner cognisance. The Herald ISUZU Schools Quiz, now in its fifth year provides an ideal platform for the youth to exercise critical life skills such as general knowledge and an understanding of current…

Mar 04, 2025 Buzz

Motorists beware of being caught in fraudulent tow truck scams

Being involved in an accident is stressful enough without the added risk of being misled by unscrupulous tow truck operators. A growing concern on South African roads is the increasing number of incidents where motorists, often in shock after an accident, are duped into handing over their vehicles under false pretences to the attending tow truck service who is purportedly, operating on the…

Mar 04, 2025 Buzz

Toyota South Africa maintains market share as SA's bestselling brand

The latest new vehicle sales figures from the Automotive Business Council, NAAMSA indicate resilience in domestic sales despite a contrasting view in vehicle exports. As reflected in the Council's monthly report, 47 978 cars were sold in February – an increase of 7.3% in comparison to February 2024 (44 749 units) and January 2025 figures (46 398 units). Total exports for Toyota registered 5968…

Mar 04, 2025 Buzz

Engen launches Aquaponics Project in Cala, Empowering Learners and Community with Sustainable Food Solutions

Engen is proud to announce the launch of an innovative Aquaponics project at Khanyisa Special School, in collaboration with Green Arch Innovations Pty Ltd. Spearheaded by entrepreneur Luvo Gugwana, Green Arch Innovations’ pioneering initiative introduces a sustainable, climate-smart food production system aimed at enhancing food security, nutritional education, and community empowerment. The…

Mar 04, 2025 Buzz

Engen and Gift of the Givers provide vital aid to KZN flood victims

Engen, in collaboration with Gift of the Givers (GoG), has stepped forward to support families affected by the severe floods in KwaZulu-Natal. With hundreds of people displaced, Engen and GoG are responding to the crisis by providing urgent relief to those in need. Severe flooding across KwaZulu-Natal’s South Coast has claimed several lives and left hundreds homeless. Disaster management teams…

Mar 04, 2025 Buzz

naamsa releases February 2025 new vehicle sales stats

Sustained momentum fuels confidence February 2025 was a defining month for South Africa’s new vehicle market, reflecting both resilience in domestic sales and headwinds in the export segment. While economic fundamentals remained broadly supportive - underpinned by easing inflation, a lower interest rate environment, and improving consumer sentiment - challenges emerged in external trade…

Mar 03, 2025 Buzz

Beyond stereotypes: meet the women powerhouses in Husqvarna SA's dealership network

In an industry where chainsaws fell giants and brushcutters tame the wild, women are cutting their own path to success. They're taking charge and proving that mastery in the outdoor power tool sector isn't about gender - it's about technical knowledge, leadership and customer service. This International Women's Day, Husqvarna South Africa proudly celebrates three remarkable, trail-blazing women…

Mar 03, 2025 Buzz

Jetour South Africa prioritises after-sales support to enhance customer satisfaction

“Customer service is Jetour's top priority, serving as the foundation of our value proposition,” says Jetour South African Vice President, Nic Campbell. Long after a new customers leaves the dealership, Jetour is focused on their service experience, a cornerstone of customer satisfaction and retention. “Ultimately, our objective is to provide consumers with the best affordable luxury vehicle at…

Mar 03, 2025 Buzz

Chery drives AI innovation with DeepSeek partnership, advancing Aimoga robots for global expansion

Earlier this year, Chery’s Aimoga robotics R&D team established a technical partnership with DeepSeek, an emerging AI powerhouse known for its groundbreaking low-cost training technology. This collaboration aims to leverage DeepSeek’s advanced AI models to enhance the voice interaction capabilities of Aimoga robots, driving the next wave of intelligent innovation. This initiative marks another…

Mar 03, 2025 Buzz

Suzuki Swift voted Best Budget Car at 2025 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards

Suzuki Auto South Africa is proud to announce that the new fourth-generation Swift has won its category at the 2025 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards. The awards, sponsored by Absa, recognise the best new-vehicle purchases across 13 segments in the local market. The Swift 1.2 GLX was named one of three finalists in the Best Budget Car category (for vehicles under R300k) in October 2024 before securing…

Mar 03, 2025 Buzz

New Volkswagen Crafter now available for sale

Following its South African premiere at the Volkswagen Group Africa Indaba early in February 2025, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has announced pricing for the new Volkswagen Crafter 50 range. The new range is available in an Extra-Long Wheelbase (4,490 mm in length), rear-wheel drive and a choice of 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic gearbox. Its maximum gross vehicle weight (GVW) is 5 tonnes…

Mar 03, 2025 Buzz

Lexus South Africa champions crucial cancer research as vehicle sponsor for Pink Polo

Lexus South Africa is proud to announce its vehicle partnership with Val de Vie Estate in support of the 2025 Pink Polo. The partnership reinforces Lexus South Africa's commitment to being a responsible corporate citizen – in this instance, in support of the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) Paarl's efforts of championing crucial cancer research in the Paarl-Franschhoek valley. "At Lexus…

Mar 03, 2025 Buzz

Autorun Officially Inaugurates First OMODA & JAECOO Showroom in Dubai

Opening of Al Ittihad Road Showroom Marks the Brand’s Next Expansion Milestone in the UAE Autorun, the exclusive dealer of OMODA & JAECOO in Dubai, has officially opened the brand’s first showroom in Dubai on Al Ittihad Road. The grand opening event was held in the presence of representatives of both companies along an elite of media members and influencers. The new showroom will provide…

Mar 03, 2025 Buzz

JLR launches charitable foundation to empower youth to reach their full potential

JLR announces the creation of the JLR Foundation, a charitable foundation dedicated to empowering children and young people to reach their full potential and catalyse positive social and environmental change. JLR is committed to donating millions to the JLR Foundation, pledging up to £2.5 million to support its charitable work in the first year, with plans to increase funding annually as the…

Feb 27, 2025 Buzz

WesBank and MG Motor South Africa join forces to offer end-to-end vehicle finance services to customers

WesBank, a leading vehicle and asset finance provider, today announced the formation of a strategic alliance with MG Motor South Africa, giving rise to MG Finance. This partnership aims to streamline the vehicle financing process and expand access to mobility solutions for South African consumers. MG Finance, a product of WesBank, aims to offer a comprehensive suite of vehicle financing products…

Feb 27, 2025 Buzz

Join us for the global reveal of the Volvo ES90

We are only a week away from launching our next fully electric model. The soon-to-be-revealed Volvo ES90 is a car designed for a life in balance. Fully in a class of its own, the Volvo ES90 combines human-centric technology with Scandinavian design for safer and more enjoyable journeys every day. It will first meet the world’s spotlights in Stockholm, during a special event in the Swedish…

Feb 27, 2025 Buzz

Anti-dumping Duties on Structural Steel: NEASA's oral hearing with ITAC

In November 2024, provisional duties, of 52% and 9% on structural steel from China and Thailand respectively, were imposed, despite the investigation into the alleged dumping not being completed yet. This was done despite stringent written objections submitted by NEASA and various other parties. On 24 February 2025, the International Trade Administration Commission of South Africa (ITAC) heard…

Feb 27, 2025 Buzz

Ford South Africa Celebrates Excellence and Legacy at its Annual Dealer Recognition Awards

Ford South Africa honoured the outstanding achievements of its dealer and distributor partners at the prestigious 2024 Ford Recognition Awards, held at the Sandton Convention Centre on February 13. The event, themed Blueprint for Success, celebrated the dedication, resilience, and customer-focused commitment of the 119 Ford dealers and distributors across Southern Africa. The awards recognised…

Feb 27, 2025 Buzz

FUCHS LUBRICANTS SOUTH AFRICA doubles sales volume thanks to a growth strategy and investment

An aggressive growth strategy in South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa over the last decade has resulted in a CAGR of 6% in volume sold since 2015. “The result of this is that sales volume has nearly doubled in this time,” said Paul Deppe, managing director of FUCHS LUBRICANTS SOUTH AFRICA and Regional Vice President of Sub-Saharan Africa. Paul Deppe was speaking at the official opening of the…

Feb 27, 2025 Buzz

Building Africa’s future: The Africa Automotive Show at IATF2025 is set to drive Pan-African collaboration and growth

The Africa Automotive Show at the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) 2025, incorporating the Auto Forum and an expansive exhibition, will take centre stage in Algiers from September 4 to 10, 2025, as a core highlight of the fourth biennial IATF. Organised by Afreximbank, the African Union, and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat and hosted by The Democratic People’s Republic…

Feb 27, 2025 Buzz

Lexus South Africa welcomes Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen as a new brand ambassador

Lexus South Africa welcomes Michelin-star chef and internationally acclaimed award-winning restauranteur, Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen as a new ambassador for the brand. The partnership affirms Lexus South Africa’s commitment to fostering creativity and innovation through the support of artistic excellence. “We are ecstatic to have Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen onboard as our new Lexus brand…

Feb 27, 2025 Buzz

Informal Workshop Webinar: Harassment in the workplace Training 25 March 2025

NEASA will be conducting an informal workshop webinar to ensure that business owners, managers, HR- and IR managers are adequately informed as to the requirements for dealing with harassment in the workplace. OBJECTIVES The objectives include providing delegates with: A basic understanding of the recently promulgated Code of Good Practice on the Elimination and Prevention of Harassment in the…

Feb 27, 2025 Buzz

Get ready for SPAR Grand Prix 2025

Christmas, New Year and Valentine’s Day have come and gone, and the thoughts of many are turning to the road – not driving, but road running. The 2025 SPAR Grand Prix series get underway on Sunday, March 30, when thousands of women will take to the streets of Cape Town for the SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge and 5km Fun Run. The Cape Town race is the first of the five races making up the SPAR Grand…

Feb 27, 2025 Buzz

JAC Motors Launches Eco-Friendly X200 EV 1.9-tonne forward-cab

In another first for JAC Motors South Africa, it has introduced the world's first right-hand-drive battery-electric X200 EV forward-cab. Expanding its leadership in the local Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) truck market, the new, versatile X200 EV 1.9-tonne provides transport operators with a sustainable, eco-friendly, cost-effective solution tailored for smaller payloads amidst evolving logistics…

Feb 27, 2025 Buzz

Inside the expanded plant at FUCHS LUBRICANTS SOUTH AFRICA

Leading lubricants manufacturer and supplier FUCHS LUBRICANTS SOUTH AFRICA introduced customers to its new expanded Isando facility during a customer day on 26 February 2025. Manufacturing Executive Thami Mzolo, who has been involved with the project since joining the company in early 2024, comments that it is the most efficient plant built and upgrade he has ever been involved with. “We…

Feb 27, 2025 Buzz

Kaizer Chiefs and Toyota South Africa ignite passion and performance with thrilling experiences

Buckle up, AmaKhosi Nation! Kaizer Chiefs and Toyota South Africa took excitement to new heights as players, top media personalities, and lucky fans experienced the sheer thrill of Toyota’s high-performance vehicles. This one-of-a-kind event showcased Toyota’s stable of super cars, pushing beyond the classics we all know and love to deliver an adrenaline-fuelled ride like no other. A partnership…

Feb 27, 2025 Buzz

FASA: The nominees standing to serve for 2025 - 2027

James Noble, Sector Executive: Wholesale, Retail & Franchise – Absa James Noble is: Executive – Sectors: Wholesale, Retail & Franchise Business at Absa Relationship Banking. He is responsible for the development and implementation of Absa’s Wholesale, Retail & Franchise strategy, creating a centre of excellence for internal as well as external industry stakeholders.He has been involved in the…

Feb 26, 2025 Buzz

SnoLink Logistics to boost operational capacity by 43% after Clearwater Capital acquisition

Under new ownership, the logistics firm will scale operations, maintain its workforce, and open a state-of-the-art facility in Gqeberha by 2026. Private equity fund manager Clearwater Capital has announced the purchase of Etlin International (Pty) Ltd’s temperature-controlled storage and logistics arm through a business rescue deal. This division, SnoLink Logistics, will continue to serve its…

Feb 26, 2025 Buzz

The Hidden Hands-On Inspection All Ford Rangers Must Pass

The Ford Ranger is one of the leading contenders in its segment in South Africa and has established a solid reputation for quality, reliability, and durability. Ford’s Silverton Manufacturing Plant, based in Pretoria, is one of five manufacturing hubs of the Ranger around the world. The Ranger’s legacy in South Africa spans three generations, marked by continuous evolution and innovation. As a…

Feb 26, 2025 Buzz

Mahindra South Africa and IDC Sign MoU to Assess Feasibility of CKD Assembly in South Africa

Mahindra has taken a significant step to strengthen its presence in South Africa. This follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Indian Auto manufacturing giant and South Africa’s Industrial Development Corporation (IDC). The MoU sets the stage for an in-depth feasibility study on the potential establishment of a Completely Knocked Down (CKD) vehicle assembly facility…

Feb 26, 2025 Buzz

From Humble Beginnings to Industry Leader: The Inspiring Journey of Tsehlo Leeto, Founder of MotorFlux

Resilience, passion, and unwavering determination—these qualities define Tsehlo Leeto, the visionary founder and director of MotorFlux, an esteemed auto repair workshop providing full-service vehicle solutions in Johannesburg West. With over 20 years of experience in the automotive industry, Tsehlo’s journey from a young boy in QwaQwa to a respected industry leader is nothing short of inspiring.…

Feb 26, 2025 Buzz

MAHLE drives innovation through inclusivity and gender parity

The world celebrated the 10th anniversary of the International Women and Girls in Science Day at the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Headquarters on February 11, 2025. MAHLE has a strong commitment to gender parity that is being pursued through a philosophy of empowerment and is investing in flagship education initiatives that support young women. Through…

Feb 25, 2025 Buzz

South Africa is making moves to become an important EV manufacturer in the future

A year ago, South Africa was mired in loadshedding, with the importance and relevance of electric vehicles (EVs) far from the public imagination. How can a country that struggles to keep the lights on dedicate time and resources to building out an EV future? Fast forward a year, much has changed. Power supply has stabilised and a statement increasingly doing the rounds in key policy and business…

Feb 25, 2025 Buzz

South Africa’s Auto Market Shows Signs of Recovery as Used Vehicle Demand Rises

The latest TransUnion South Africa Vehicle Pricing Index (VPI) for Q4 2024 reveals a cautiously optimistic outlook for the country’s automotive sector, with improving economic conditions encouraging consumer confidence while affordability challenges continue to shape purchasing decisions. Key insights from the report indicate a continued shift towards used vehicles, with financing for pre-owned…

Feb 25, 2025 Buzz

Volvo Car South Africa unveils exciting new EV ownership package for 2025

Volvo Car South Africa is pleased to announce a new offer designed to make electric vehicle ownership even more convenient. As the leading EV brand in South Africa, Volvo will provide new electric vehicle owners with two years of free public charging, a GridCars wallbox with installation, and 10 GB of Vodacom data per month for three years. Two Years of Free Public Charging New Volvo electric…

Feb 25, 2025 Buzz

Employee Health Insurance Survey

Medical aid or medical insurance has always been at the top of the list of employee needs, especially for those who cannot afford private medical aid. This issue has been compounded by the poor state of the public health system, which often does not assist ill or injured employees timeously, or at all, which leads to extended or frequent absenteeism. This in turn results in loss of production or…

Feb 25, 2025 Buzz

Scania Southern Africa Celebrates Milestones with New Regional Product Centre Inauguration and 30 Years in South Africa

Scania Southern Africa proudly marks a momentous occasion in its journey as it inaugurates its new Regional Product Centre (RPC) this February. This milestone comes just a year after relocating its head office to Constantia Kloof, reflecting the company’s commitment to continuous growth and innovation in the region. Additionally, 2025 signifies 30 years of Scania’s presence in South Africa, a…

Feb 25, 2025 Buzz

FUCHS LUBRICANTS SOUTH AFRICA’s offer for mobile cranes ensure optimal performance and longevity

Mobile cranes are complex machines that play a critical role in various industries, from construction to logistics. These machines, which can range in capacity from 30 t to over 1 200 t, are subjected to demanding environments, requiring high-quality lubricants to ensure smooth operation and extend their lifespan. FUCHS LUBRICANTS SOUTH AFRICA provides a comprehensive range of lubrication…

Feb 25, 2025 Buzz

Your vehicle is more likely to be hijacked than stolen

Criminals after more than just the vehicle Tracker’s vehicle crime statistics for July to December 2024 reveal that nationally, hijackings comprise 56% of all vehicle crime incidents, while theft accounts for 44%. However, hijacking becomes more pronounced when evaluating business-owned vehicles and specific provinces in South Africa. The Tracker Vehicle Crime Index aggregates information from…

Feb 24, 2025 Buzz

Graphalloy® bearings and bushes from ISO-Reliability Partners

A range of graphite-metal/alloy bushings and bearings is available from ISO-Reliability Partners. Graphalloy® is an ideal solution for any bearing or bushing application where lubricants fail due to the surrounding environment, says Craig FitzGerald. Known as Graphalloy®, the material is a graphite-metal/alloy that is solid, uniform, self-lubricating, non-galling, and can operate in temperature…

Feb 24, 2025 Buzz

Beyond repairs - Is your insurance policy up to scratch?

A January 2025 ruling by the Pretoria High Court has highlighted the critical importance of understanding your vehicle insurance policy requirements and serves as a stark reminder that failure to comply with policy terms - such as ensuring a functional tracking device is installed in your car - can result in rejected claims, leaving motorists significantly out of pocket. Juan Hanekom, national…

Feb 24, 2025 Buzz

Volkswagen adds two engines to the new Tiguan model line-up

Volkswagen has expanded the new Tiguan model line-up with the addition of two new engines, 2.0 TDI with 110kW and 2.0 TSI with 140kW. Both engines are offered with a 7-speed DSG transmission. Since its local launch in August 2024, the new Volkswagen Tiguan has sold 1 190 units. The new Tiguan has striked a good chord with the local motoring journalists who have named it as one of the finalists in…

Feb 24, 2025 Buzz

Bidvest International Logistics scoops Diamond Arrow Award

South African logistics firm continues to stand head and shoulders above the rest in the annual PMR Africa survey Bidvest International Logistics (BIL) is still among the top performers for South African logistics companies after winning a PMR Africa Diamond Arrow Award for a remarkable seventh year. PMR Africa’s annual awards aim to recognise professional excellence across various industries.…

Feb 24, 2025 Buzz

Unemployed Youth: NEASA opens doors for matrics: Employers to benefit as well

The scourge of unemployment is ever increasingly plaguing the South African youth. Millions are not privileged enough to be able to obtain further education upon completion of school and desperately need employment and experience in the job market, to empower themselves for their lives ahead. This is where NEASA is stepping in and tackling this problem head-on through its NEASA Youth Development…

Feb 24, 2025 Buzz

Mahindra Fusion Fest 2025: Celebrating Two Decades in South Africa and Ushering in a Dynamic Third Decade

Mahindra South Africa marked two decades of success in the country by hosting the Mahindra Fusion Fest, a landmark event that blended business, culture and community engagement and set the stage for a dynamic third decade. The celebration was further enhanced by the presence of the Honourable Deputy President of South Africa, Mr Paul Mashatile, who graced the occasion as the guest of honour. His…

Feb 21, 2025 Buzz

Mahindra Fusion Fest 2025 a Go!

The SunBet Arena in Pretoria is a hive of activity as Mahindra South Africa finalises preparations for its historic Fusion Fest this Saturday. The Mahindra Fusion Fest is a truly unique event that celebrates the youthful energy of the ‘Vibrant Rainbow Nation’ through music, fashion, and art by fusing music, fashion, and art into a high-energy production in front of over 7 000 people. “Consider a…

Feb 21, 2025 Buzz

DVN Award 2025 for Intelli-Lux HD Light in New Opel Grandland

The new Opel Grandland sets standards with top technologies such as the industry-leading Intelli-Lux HD light. This is also confirmed by the expert audience of Driving Vision News. The Opel Grandland has now been honoured with the prestigious DVN Award 2025 in the ‘Best Front Lamps’ category of the online vote. Philipp Roeckl, Global Lead Complex Lighting at Stellantis, accepted the award on…

Feb 21, 2025 Buzz

NADA and SAVRALA formalise longstanding partnership with Memorandum of Agreement

The National Automobile Dealers' Association (NADA) and the Southern African Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (SAVRALA) have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), marking the formalisation of a relationship that has existed informally for many years. This milestone underscores the commitment of both organisations to working together strategically to strengthen the industry and drive key…

Feb 21, 2025 Buzz

Goodyear ready for a new season as exclusive LMGT3 supplier with new and proven tire specifications

Goodyear is set to begin its second season as the exclusive tire supplier for the LMGT3 category of the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC). This weekend the globe-trotting series kicks off track action with the official prologue at the Lusail International Circuit, followed by the Qatar 1812 km next weekend. Building on a highly successful debut LMGT3 season in 2024, Goodyear will once again…

Feb 21, 2025 Buzz

NAACAM Show 2025: Earlybird Registrations Ending Soon!

Feb 20, 2025 Buzz

FAW Trucks Southern Africa record-breaking sales & strategic growth in 2024

FAW Trucks Southern Africa is proud to announce its strategic positioning for 2025, building on the remarkable success of 2024. Our record-breaking year to date sales achievement showcasing our innovative spirit and strategic vision for Southern Africa’s transportation landscape. Market Context and Growth The South African truck market presents promising opportunities in 2025. According to recent…

Feb 20, 2025 Buzz

Digi Cars Group to Showcase sought-after Vehicles at EidFest 2025

Digi Cars Group, a leading dealership group in the South African automotive industry, is set to make a powerful impact at this year’s EidFest, taking place at the Gallagher Convention Centre from Thursday, 20 February to Sunday, 23 February 2025. With an expected 40,000 attendees, this premier event presents the perfect platform for Digi Cars Group to display a selection of highly sought-after…

Feb 20, 2025 Buzz

Volkswagen's ad strategy highlights digital innovation and smart mobility solutions, reveals GlobalData

Volkswagen’s YouTube advertising campaign from August 2024 to January 2025 has showcased its digital ecosystem through innovative connected services and smart features, marking a significant evolution in automotive technology. The campaign has highlighted advancements in vehicle connectivity, personalization, and intelligent features across its lineup, with particular emphasis on the ID. series…

Feb 20, 2025 Buzz

bpSA turns swipe swipe into drive drive drive

At a prize handover ceremony held at Mini Bryanston, three bp customers each received the keys to a brand-new Mini Cooper as a prize in the ‘Swipe Swipe to Win Win’ competition which ran at bp service stations across the country from October 2024 to January 2025. Winners Christiaan Haynes, Peter Letsoko and Thomas Brutus were named final winners for swiping both their bp Rewards and Pick ‘n Pay…

Feb 20, 2025 Buzz

EQUIP AUTO Paris 2025: Extensive mobilisation with eight months yet to go

The international exhibition for automotive professionals EQUIP AUTO Paris is gearing up for a promising anniversary exhibition from 14 to 18 October 2025 at Paris Porte de Versailles. With eight months to go before opening day, 75% of exhibition space is already booked, confirming the enthusiasm of industry players for this unmissable highlight in the calendar of the automotive industry,…

Feb 19, 2025 Buzz

Jetour Autocity Alberton urges others in the community to join them in future charity drives

As a leading global SUV brand, Jetour actively engages in corporate social responsibility initiatives that emphasise environmental conservation and community development. Locally, the team at Jetour AutoCity Alberton takes this pledge to heart, with their recent initiative highlighting how they are making a meaningful contribution. The dealership visited Umkhathizwe and Nageng primary schools on…

Feb 19, 2025 Buzz

Trade in your vehicle like a pro

South Africa is reported to have more than 50 automotive brands represented locally, with over 2,500 derivatives currently on sale. This number is set to grow as new brands are launched, ushering in new developments in vehicle technology and design that will entice many car owners to consider trading in their vehicles for newer models. Trading in a paid-off car is fairly uncomplicated – you must…

Feb 19, 2025 Buzz

Rand Mutual Assurance (RMA): Return of Earnings (ROE): Submissions open

The Rand Mutual Assurance (RMA) assessment period for the submission of employers’ 2024 Return of Earnings (ROE) will be open from 1 March 2025 until 31 March 2025. No new Letters of Good Standing (LOGS) will be issued to businesses that fail to timeously file, submit and pay their assessment, and penalties may be imposed for late filing. Employers who require assistance with ROE submissions,…

Feb 19, 2025 Buzz

Range Rover launches its first lifestyle capsule, The London Collection, featuring Adwoa Aboah

Range Rover combines its signature modernist design ethos and iconic British heritage to launch its first lifestyle capsule. In a new campaign starring British supermodel and actress, Adwoa Aboah, the limited-edition, eight-piece collection seamlessly blends classic and versatile pieces with bold colours and its own unique print design inspired by Range Rover’s design language. Aptly named The…

Feb 19, 2025 Buzz

High-Performance Driving: How Continental Tyres Keep You in Control

Continental has an exceptionally long and proud legacy of tyre innovation and expertise spanning more than 150 years, so it’s no surprise that it is a leading contender when it comes to producing ultra high-performance (UHP) tyres such as the range-topping SportContact 7. In designing the SportContact 7, Continental developers focused on achieving the highest standards in all performance criteria…

Feb 19, 2025 Buzz

RMI supports TVET colleges' Centres of Specialisation Facilitator Workshop to strengthen occupational training

The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), is hosting a two-day Centres of Specialisation (CoS) Facilitator Workshop at Tshwane South TVET College, Pretoria West Campus, on 18-19 February 2025. The workshop brings together over 70 TVET college lecturers and project managers from across South Africa to enhance…

Feb 19, 2025 Buzz

Alfa Romeo and Noemi in “Se t’innamori muori” music video

The quest for the most profound emotions, universal passions and the Italian spirit are the heart of the collaboration between Alfa Romeo and Noemi, one of the most beloved voices on the Italian music scene. At the 75th Sanremo Festival, the singer thrilled the audience with the song “Se t’innamori muori,” speaking of the courage to abandon oneself to love and fully experience emotions, even…

Feb 19, 2025 Buzz

AutoTrader data reveals strong demand for sensible and practical used cars in January 2025

Buyers are making smart choices, with shifting trends reshaping the leaderboard. January’s sales figures highlight key movements in the market. Used car sales are off to a good start in 2025, with the latest January sales data from AutoTrader showing strong sales, a positive indicator of what’s to come for the year. The first month of the year typically has the best performance, as dealerships…

Feb 18, 2025 Buzz

Axalta acquires three distributors who become part of Axalta Axcess - its European direct-to-customer sales and distribution network

Axalta announced the acquisition of three distributors in Europe, which will become part of the Axalta Axcess network. Axalta Axcess is Axalta’s direct-to-customer sales and distribution solution designed to make ordering, delivery and aftersales support for European customers convenient, reliable and efficient. The acquisitions, which were completed at the end of 2024, comprise two Italian…

Feb 18, 2025 Buzz

New QR Code to collect Ratings and Reviews

AutoTrader Ratings and Reviews is a Dealer Reputation Management tool that has been available to car shoppers since December 2024. Since launching, we have seen: INCREASED consumer engagement - over 4x MORE Ratings and Reviews submitted by vehicle shoppers since we launched INCREASED dealer engagement - since launching the ability for dealers to reply to consumers, dealers have engaged with…

Feb 18, 2025 Buzz

Range Rover appoints Martin Limpert as Global Managing Director

Range Rover announces the appointment of Martin Limpert as its Global Managing Director, effective immediately. Martin Limpert will now lead the Global Range Rover House of Brand team, where he will continue to define Range Rover’s commercial and brand vision, following the announcement of JLR’s House of Brands organisation in 2023. He will also oversee product strategy at a crucial time as Range…

Feb 18, 2025 Buzz

Volvo Group, Volvo Trucks, not part of Volvo Cars - no restructuring at Volvo Group Southern Africa

It has come to the attention of Volvo Group Southern Africa that various media reports and social media posts are wrongfully linking the company to a recent statement issued by Volvo Cars South Africa. Firstly, Volvo Group Southern Africa and Volvo Cars SA are not the same company, not locally and also not globally. Volvo Cars and Volvo Group have been separate entities since 1999, when Volvo…

Feb 18, 2025 Buzz

National State Enterprises Bill: Not the solution to our SOE problems

Opinion Piece by Rona Bekker, Policy Manager at the National Employers' Association of South Africa (NEASA). NEASA submits commentary One of the key reasons for South Africa’s exceptionally low economic growth rates has been the ongoing operational and financial turmoil that has plagued the State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) for decades. State-controlled central planning, corruption, state capture…

Feb 18, 2025 Buzz

Renault Group and Geely Holding Group sign a framework agreement for a new strategic cooperation in Brazil

Renault Group and Geely Holding Group today jointly announced a framework agreement expanding their strategic cooperation in the production and sales of zero and low emission vehicles through Renault do Brasil, further strengthening their strategic partnership. Geely Holding would invest in Renault do Brasil to become a minority shareholder, enabling Geely Holding to gain access to localized…

Feb 17, 2025 Buzz

Lexus continues creative journey at Investec Cape Town art fair

Lexus is proud to announce its continued partnership with the Investec Cape Town Art Fair (ICTAF) for the fifth consecutive year. Renowned for refined automotive luxury, Lexus has expanded its presence within the world of art and design. This partnership with ICTAF underscores the brand’s commitment to pioneering innovation, craftsmanship and sustainability. As the official vehicle partner for…

Feb 17, 2025 Buzz

Top five finish for Nick Cassidy and Jaguar TCS Racing in Saudi Arabia

An excellent recovery drive from Jaguar TCS Racing and Nick Cassidy saw the Kiwi claim his first points of the 2024/25 ABB FIA Formula E season, climbing 12 places to finish fifth, under the lights in Jeddah. Teammate Mitch Evans had also made significant progress, running in eighth with energy to spare and with a final Attack Mode to take, he and the team were eyeing the top six and a possible…

Feb 17, 2025 Buzz

Cars.co.za and Absa roll out the Awards red carpet

Leading online motoring portal Cars.co.za is putting the final touches on its upcoming Awards event, set to take place at Mall of Africa on Thursday, 27 February. Sponsored by Absa, the prestigious event will host motor industry heavyweights, media, celebrities and other stakeholders when it crowns the best cars in 13 respective segments of the market. Widely recognised as the country’s most…

Feb 17, 2025 Buzz

E-LION Day 2025: performance focus for PEUGEOT

Alain Favey, new CEO of PEUGEOT Brand, took the opportunity of this third edition of the E-LION DAY to kick off the year 2025 by announcing his roadmap and ambitions. “In addition to the beautiful products already present in our markets, it’s by focusing on our customers and strengthening our partnerships that we will build a bright, successful and sustainable future for PEUGEOT. In 2025, we are…

Feb 14, 2025 Buzz

Kyalami Park Club: Year of the Legend, driven by Toyota

Kyalami Park Club is thrilled to announce that 2025 will be the Year of the Legend, brought to you by Toyota. Every year, equestrian excellence is elevated and in true Toyota style, The Year of the Legend promises more: bigger prizes, more participants, unbeatable entertainment and passionate professionalism - all in pursuit of perfection. Following last year’s hugely successful Toyota Triple…

Feb 14, 2025 Buzz

Access Bank to Host Pioneering Africa Trade Conference in Cape Town

Access Bank PLC is set to host its first-ever Africa Trade Conference (ATC), a landmark event focused on advancing Africa’s economic transformation under the theme, ‘Empowering Africa Through Trade, Innovation, and Sustainable Growth’. Scheduled for March 12, 2025, in Cape Town, South Africa, the conference is poised to bring together the most influential voices in trade, finance, and policy to…

Feb 14, 2025 Buzz

NAACAM Show 2025 Earlybird Registrations Now Open

Feb 14, 2025 Buzz

In love at first drive this Valentine’s day

Have you seen it? The crimson red Jetour Dashing parading around Jozi on the back of a truck, with the words “a million times over, I will aways choose you”? This isn’t any normal road show, this is a declaration of love by African Movie Academy Awards nominee, actor Oros Mampofu to his longtime girlfriend, Bianca Carmichael. Best known for his role in SABC 1 drama series Skeem Saam, today sees…

Feb 14, 2025 Buzz

Daimler Truck Southern Africa cares with the donation of a Mercedes-Benz Actros 1836 to the DGB Charitable Trust’s “Travelling Classroom”

DGB, a leading premium wine and spirits producer and distributor in South Africa, through its DGB Charitable Trust, officially launched their second “Travelling Classroom” at Alfons Primary School in Paarl, Cape Town on the 10th of February 2025. Officially unveiling the mobile classroom was Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen together with DGB Executive Chairman, Tim Hutchinson, and…

Feb 14, 2025 Buzz

Michelin Highlights Smart, Safe, and Sustainable Mining Solutions at Mining Indaba 2025

Michelin Mining has wrapped up a successful presence at Mining Indaba 2025, where the company’s vision for smart, safe, and sustainable mining took centre stage. The event, held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), brought together industry leaders and innovators to explore the future of mining through technology and collaboration. Hein Venter, Michelin’s B2B Off Sales…

Feb 14, 2025 Buzz

Must read: DIRCO restricts Labour20 to ANC and COSATU talk shop

In a meeting of parliament’s Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) this morning, it was revealed that Labour20, South Africa’s G20 presidency platform which represents worker’s interests, has been restricted to an ANC-aligned political platform dominated by the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU). So blatant is the politicisation of the Labour20…

Feb 13, 2025 Buzz

Toyota SA and The Toyota Gaming Engine (TTGE) Power Up Esports in South Africa

Level up, South Africa—Esports is about to get a major boost! The Toyota Gaming Engine (TTGE) is proud to announce an exciting new chapter in its mission to grow the Esports community across the country by making it more accessible. With the backing of Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM), the gaming world is about to become more inclusive than ever, breaking down barriers and giving aspiring gamers…

Feb 13, 2025 Buzz

Mercedes-Benz South Africa and Laureus Sport for Good Foundation collaborate for social impact

Demonstrating the power of partnership, Mercedes-Benz South Africa (MBSA), in collaboration with Laureus Sport for Good Foundation South Africa (LSFGFSA), announces the graduation of the third cohort of the Incubation Hub programme. Driven by the growing need to support a wider network of non-profits, in 2024, the partners expanded their reach through the Incubation Hub in Gauteng to equip more…

Feb 13, 2025 Buzz

Racial Targets 'Consultations': Employers to submit commentary

As NEASA suspected, the ‘consultations’ being held by the Department of Employment and Labour (DoEL) regarding the proposed sectoral numerical employment equity targets, are not providing a proper opportunity for meaningful stakeholder engagement. The various sectors are presented with what the DoEL has already decided their targets will be, and thereafter only a few attendees are awarded an…

Feb 13, 2025 Buzz

Magic Red: new Permahyd Mixing Colour from Spies Hecker

Red is a colour people feel a strong connection to. Historically, red symbolises power. In the West, it is often associated with love, while in the East, its links lie with good fortune. For car buyers, red is one of the most popular chromatic colours according to Axalta’s latest Global Automotive Color Popularity Report. The new, easy-to-use red mixing tint, Permahyd® Mixing Colour WT112 Magic…

Feb 13, 2025 Buzz

Boitumelo Moroe: From the Finance Corporate World to Bosch Franchise Owner in Kya Sand

From working within the corporate finance sector to owning Finches Motor Centre, a Bosch Car Service franchise in Kya Sand (“Bosch Car Service FMC”), Boitumelo Moroe has turned her entrepreneurial spirit into a thriving business. As one of the few black women in South Africa to own a Bosch franchise, Moroe’s journey is a powerful story of resilience, ambition, and leadership in a male-dominated…

Feb 13, 2025 Buzz

Toyota is the world’s most valuable auto brand, while Tesla continues to lose brand value

Toyota is the world’s most valuable automotive brand, overtaking Mercedes-Benz and Tesla, according to the latest Automotive Industry 2025 report by leading brand valuation consultancy Brand Finance. Toyota’s brand value surged by 23% to USD64.7 billion, driven by strong sales and a strategic focus on hybrid vehicles. While many brands struggle with the slower-than-expected transition to fully…

Feb 13, 2025 Buzz

Suzuki on the road again with Rally to Read in KZN

Following the success of last year’s event, Suzuki Auto South Africa on 8 February again joined forces with the KwaZulu-Natal leg of the Rally to Read programme. Since its establishment in 1998, Rally to Read aims to uplift the lives of learners at rural primary schools with the provision of sufficient, relevant and age-appropriate reading materials. It also focuses on equipping teachers with the…

Feb 12, 2025 Buzz

UD Trucks Southern Africa goes the extra mile

UD Trucks Southern Africa (UDTSA)’s historic founding dates back in 1962 and this year, marks 90 years of the brand’s existence globally. As is customary, UDTSA started the year with its Annual Press Conference on 27 January 2025, at Cradle Boutique Hotel near Johannesburg with local media stakeholders in attendance. UDTSA announced its annual business results, and highlighted the overall new…

Feb 12, 2025 Buzz

African Association of Automotive Manufacturers (AAAM) announces appointment of a new CEO

The African Association of Automotive Manufacturers (AAAM) is pleased to announce the appointment of Victoria Backhaus-Jerling as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective 1 March 2025. Backhaus-Jerling succeeds Dave Coffey, who has served as CEO since February 2020 and is retiring after five years of exceptional leadership. Backhaus-Jerling will be the first woman to lead AAAM as CEO. Martina…

Feb 12, 2025 Buzz

New minimum wage to boost worker income from 1 March 2025: what employers need to know

In a significant move aimed at improving workers' livelihoods across South Africa, the government has announced that a new minimum wage will come into effect on 1 March 2025. This change is expected to impact a wide range of industries, and employers are urged to familiarise themselves with the new regulations to ensure compliance, explains Managing Director at Strata-g Labour Solutions, Advocate…

Feb 12, 2025 Buzz

Auto review 2024

Auto vehicle market declined slightly from 2023 levels, still up on 2021 numbers Despite a 3% decline in total vehicle sales, passenger vehicle sales grew by 1%, while LCVs dropped 12%. Crossover/SUVs dominate, now nearing 40% of the market, while hybrids and EV sales doubled, reaching 4.4% of passenger sales. Lightstone provided over 1.9 million vehicle validations, offering critical insights…

Feb 12, 2025 Buzz

Reminder: 2025 National Roadshow: The BEE Predicament: How to respond

NEASA is, and will always be, fundamentally opposed to the concept of BEE, because sacrificing any part of your business ownership, merely to comply with Government’s laws, goes against all sound business principles. Although not all businesses are forced to comply with BEE, an entirely separate and highly lucrative economy, regrettably, has been created because of BEE. NEASA comprehends…

Feb 12, 2025 Buzz

Race quotas: Sectoral Targets Consultations: Have your say

In order to keep the Department accountable for its actions, and in preparation for the imminent legal action, NEASA would like to determine how employers experienced the consultations on the proposed numerical sectoral employment equity targets for each industry. For employers who attended one or more of these consultations, please complete this short survey and make your voice heard.

Feb 11, 2025 Buzz

Threat of AGOA expulsion poses bumpy ride ahead for tyre and component sector

With economists warning that AGOA’s duty-free access to the U.S. market could potentially be on the chopping block, South Africa’s tyre, equipment, and parts industry, a sector traditionally reliant on these trade benefits to stay competitive with other markets that are subsidised, is concerned about possible increased tariffs, lost contracts and supply chain disruptions. Dylan Petzer National…

Feb 11, 2025 Buzz

FUCHS LUBRICANTS offers complete solutions for the die casting industry

Die casting is a manufacturing process that involves injecting molten metal into a mould to produce complex, high-precision components. This technique is essential for creating lightweight and durable parts in the automotive industry, contributing to vehicle efficiency and performance. FUCHS LUBRICANTS SOUTH AFRICA addresses the evolving demands of the die casting sector through continuous…

Feb 11, 2025 Buzz

Maserati Reveals the New GT2 Stradale at Yas Marina Circuit

Maserati delivered an electrifying two-day track event at Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi, marking the overseas debut of the GT2 Stradale. The event welcomed over 100 guests, including GCC and international media and clients, showcasing Maserati’s innovation, performance, and craftsmanship against the backdrop of one of the world’s most iconic Formula 1 circuits. Guests stayed at W Hotel Abu Dhabi,…

Feb 11, 2025 Buzz

Holger Schmitz becomes Director Sales & Marketing at Clark

Clark Europe has appointed Holger Schmitz as the new Director Sales & Marketing. He takes over this role from Stefan Budweit, who has resigned from his previous positions to take over the management of Clark Europe as President & CEO. Holger Schmitz has been with Clark since 2023 and previously held the position of Business Development Manager. In this role, he has made a significant contribution…

Feb 10, 2025 Buzz

Rory Reid’s thrilling, deep dive into GR paradise

Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) had the pleasure of hosting renowned Autotrader UK journalist and former BBC TopGear presenter Rory Reid. The trip also offered a thrilling opportunity to showcase track capabilities of Toyota's high-performance GR lineup, with a special focus on the GR Corolla – a model that has yet to make its way to the UK market. Rory and his team’s itinerary saw them head to…

Feb 10, 2025 Buzz

Swift glams it up with new dual-tone paintwork

In keeping with the month of passion and self-expression, Suzuki Auto South Africa is excited to unveil three new dual-tone paint options for its popular fourth-generation Swift. Launched to our shores in November 2024, this award-winning Japanese hatchback sports a distinctive exterior that sets itself apart from its predecessor courtesy restyled headlight clusters with L-shaped signature lamps,…

Feb 10, 2025 Buzz

Junior resources available to assist in your business

Graduates and Interns Background Qualifications: Finance and Accounting Administration HR IT Sales and Marketing Procurement Business Management Compliance Employers to benefit from government funding NEASA Youth facilitates end-to-end program deliverables; cost-effective HR solution and low risk appointment; feed company recruitment pipeline; compliance and labour law services included; sales and…

Feb 10, 2025 Buzz

TEPA welcomes Kugen Pather as new Associational Representative for Coastal region

The Tyre Equipment and Parts Association (TEPA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), is pleased to announce the appointment of Kugen Pather as the new Associational Representative overseeing the Coastal region, which includes KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) and the Western and Eastern Cape regions. Pather brings a wealth of experience and expertise to TEPA, having built a…

Feb 07, 2025 Buzz

Chery South Africa Named Official Vehicle Partner of the Inaugural SunBet Padel Invitational

Chery South Africa is proud to announce its role as the Official Vehicle Partner of the Sunbet Padel Invitational, set to debut in February 2025. Chery will provide VIP transportation as part of the partnership, ensuring celebrity guests and VIPs travel in style and comfort in the Tiggo 7 Pro and Tiggo 8 Pro. Founded by Kriya Gangiah, the Sunbet Padel Invitational is a first-of-its-kind event in…

Feb 07, 2025 Buzz

NADA welcomes focus on reforms and infrastructure in President Ramaphosa's SONA

President Cyril Ramaphosa's State of the Nation Address provided a clear focus on critical reforms needed to bolster South Africa's economy. His emphasis on improving local government operations and addressing water system challenges is encouraging, as effective service delivery is essential for economic growth. The ringfencing of revenue for essential services such as water and electricity is a…

Feb 07, 2025 Buzz

RMI applauds success of Motor Mechanic Apprentices at College of Cape Town

The Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI) has applauded the work being done in the automotive sector at the College of Cape Town’s Athlone campus as the most recent cohort of motor mechanic apprentices prepare for their upcoming trade tests. In March 2022, 32 apprentices embarked on their journey at this Centre of Specialisation, which offers the unique Automotive Motor Mechanic Occupational…

Feb 07, 2025 Buzz

SONA 2025: It is what is not being said that really matters

by Gerhard Papenfus Economic growth at a rapid pace will go a long way to address many of South Africa’s socio-economic ills. The ANC does not necessarily disagree with this. What they disagree with is how to achieve this. While a free market, the respect for private property rights and the creation of a conducive environment for business growth are the only ways to achieve this, the ANC,…

Feb 06, 2025 Buzz

Volvo dominates South Africa's new electric car market with impressive 2024 Sales

Volvo Car SA has claimed the title of South Africa’s favourite electric vehicle manufacturer. In 2024, it topped the charts for overall EV sales and the best-selling nameplate. Leading the charge was the Volvo EX30, the compact electric crossover that dominated the market. With 406 units sold during the year, it earned the title of South Africa’s best-selling battery-electric vehicle for 2024.…

Feb 06, 2025 Buzz

FWF and Lapalala Wilderness School: Empowering Communities Through Environmental Education

In the heart of South Africa’s Limpopo province, where rich biodiversity thrives and conservation challenges persist, Lapalala Wilderness School (LWS) is shaping a future where people and nature co-exist in harmony. What makes LWS unique is that it’s not only educating minds but also inspiring a deep and lasting respect for the natural world. Through its far-reaching programmes, LWS instils the…

Feb 06, 2025 Buzz

RACE QUOTAS: Sectoral Targets Consultations

The Department of Employment and Labour (the Department) will be conducting consultations across all sectors on the proposed numerical sectoral employment equity targets. The Department is well aware of NEASA’s objection to race quotas, as well as the fact that NEASA deems these ‘consultations’ to be defective in administrative and legislative nature, and merely an attempt to remedy previous…

Feb 06, 2025 Buzz

Volkswagen Group Africa takes over retail operations of Ducati in South Africa

Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA) has officially taken over the local retail operations of the Ducati Brand in South Africa, effective 1 January 2025. The announcement of Ducati as the fourth brand in Volkswagen Group Africa’s brand portfolio in South Africa was made at the annual media event hosted in Kariega. The addition of Ducati diversifies VWGA’s brand portfolio which includes Volkswagen…

Feb 06, 2025 Buzz

Tarryn Knight Appointed Head of Marketing at Ford South Africa

Ford South Africa has appointed Tarryn Knight as its head of Marketing, effective from 1 January 2025. With nearly two decades of marketing experience for German passenger and commercial vehicle brands, Knight will lead the strategic direction of Ford’s marketing communications, events and sponsorships, building on the company’s more than 100-year legacy in South Africa and its exciting new…

Feb 06, 2025 Buzz

Hollard announces Andrew Coutts as CEO for Hollard Insure

The Hollard Insurance Company Ltd is pleased to announce the appointment of Andrew Coutts as the Chief Executive Officer of Hollard Insure, the short-term insurance division of South Africa’s largest privately owned insurer. Coutts, a veteran of over 20 years in the insurance industry, joins Hollard as he succeeds another veteran, Nash Omar, who will be retiring on 30 June 2025. Omar has served…

Feb 05, 2025 Buzz

2024 a strong year for exports for Volkswagen Group Africa

On top of achieving a new record production volume for its Kariega plant in 2024, Volkswagen Group Africa also ended last year with its best-ever performance in terms of export. The company’s plant in Kariega, which has been exporting vehicles since 1992 and manufacturing Polos since 1996, exported 131 485 units of this popular vehicle in 2024. This is a strong increase from the previous export…

Feb 05, 2025 Buzz

Industry Leaders Share Critical Insights At Automechanika CEO Networking Event

On Friday, 31 January, prominent figures in the automotive industry met at the Southern African-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Johannesburg for a combined Automechanika CEO lunch and networking event. The discussions focused on electric mobility, African market opportunities, and the transformation of South Africa's automotive landscape. The event featured insights from prominent…

Feb 05, 2025 Buzz

National Minimum Wage Increased: A failure of policy

On 4 February 2025, the Minister of Employment and Labour increased the National Minimum Wage (NMW) to R28.79 per hour with effect from 1 March 2025, which applies to all employees covered by the Basic Conditions of Employment Act As well as domestic- and farm workers. NEASA realises that the Minister had no option but to increase the minimum wage as she is bound by a government policy that…

Feb 05, 2025 Buzz

"Early Bird" Registration Discount Offered for The SAPICS Conference, Africa’s Leading Event for The Supply Chain Profession

EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION DISCOUNT OFFERED FOR THE SAPICS CONFERENCE, AFRICA’S LEADING EVENT FOR THE SUPPLY CHAIN PROFESSION Secure your spot at Africa’s leading supply chain conference at the best possible rate! Early Bird registration for the 2025 SAPICS Conference is now open – but only until the end of February! Taking place in Cape Town from 8 to 11 June 2025, this year’s conference is bigger…

Feb 05, 2025 Buzz

Automechanika Kuala Lumpur 2025 advocates for green and innovative developments in automotive mobility for Malaysian and ASEAN markets

Malaysian government policies and a shifting market landscape towards AI, digitalisation, electrification, energy efficiency, and sustainability have resulted in the country becoming an attractive investment destination, driven by demand for sustainable products and solutions in the automotive industry. This year, Automechanika Kuala Lumpur 2025, taking place on 15 to 17 May, features an expanded…

Feb 04, 2025 Buzz

Toyota grows market share in a promising start to 2025

As reported by NAAMSA, there was a discernible uptick in retail numbers for the first month of 2025 - 46,398 units were registered reflecting an increase of 4,375 cars, or a gain of 10,4%, versus the 42,023 new cars sold in January 2024. A further 25 basis point interest rate cut in January, coupled with controlled inflation, contributed to this sense of optimism. Despite a minor energy issue…

Feb 04, 2025 Buzz

Kia Vereeniging takes top honours in the 2024 Kia Dealer of the Year Awards

Kia South Africa this weekend rewarded its top-performing dealerships across the country with prizes for outstanding achievements in sales, after-sales and service operations. The 2024 Kia Dealer of the Year Awards, which encompass the period July 2023 to December 2024, was held during the brand’s leadership conference at The Marriott in Melrose Arch, Johannesburg. The conference and awards was…

Feb 04, 2025 Buzz

Alan Walker releases “Forever Young” in collaboration with Jetour

Just a few weeks after revealing that DJ, producer, and electronic music sensation Alan Walker had teamed up with Jetour as their new global ambassador, his latest theme song, "Forever Young," has now been released. This latest track combines Jetour's "Travel+" philosophy with Walker's distinctive musical style and signature beats, crafting an energetic and captivating atmosphere, while the…

Feb 04, 2025 Buzz

Suzuki begins the year with four new sales records

Suzuki Auto South Africa and its network of dealers started 2025 off in style with the setting of four new sales records. According to the official sales report – published by industry body naamsa on the first business day of every month – 6,399 new Suzuki passenger vehicles were sold during January 2025. This improves upon the Japanese carmaker’s previous overall sales record set in November…

Feb 04, 2025 Buzz

Honouring a legacy: Farewell to MIWA Free State Vice Chair Bruno Burri

This month, Bloemfontein motorists can bid a fond farewell to Bruno Burri, the esteemed Free State Vice Chair of the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA) and owner of SwedoTech Services. A stalwart of the automotive industry, Bruno's journey is one of passion, dedication, and immense contribution to both MIWA and the broader automotive sector. Bruno's story began in 1980 when he entered the…

Feb 04, 2025 Buzz

KZN induction and training for MIWA Short Skills Programme kicks off

In a significant step to develop skills in the automotive aftermarket repair and maintenance sector, the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), has continued its short skills training initiative, which launched last year with R23.5 million in funding from merSETA. This project, the largest ever secured by the RMI, aims to…

Feb 04, 2025 Buzz

Engen Petroleum Achieves Industry-First RTMS Certification for National Heavy Vehicle Fleet

Engen Petroleum has set a new benchmark in road transport safety, becoming the first and only oil company in South Africa to achieve Road Transport Management System (RTMS) certification for its entire national fleet of heavy vehicles. Awarded by JC Auditors (JCA), this prestigious certification underscores Engen’s unwavering commitment to good governance, safety, and compliance in the…

Feb 04, 2025 Buzz

AutoTrader's new Ratings and Reviews set a marketplace first in South Africa

AutoTrader, South Africa’s most trusted motoring marketplace, has introduced a groundbreaking tool—the first of its kind in SA automotive classified space. The Ratings and Reviews feature raises the bar in the automotive industry, offering customers a dealership rating based on real feedback from previous car shoppers and buyers. AutoTrader, South Africa’s most trusted motoring marketplace, has…

Feb 04, 2025 Buzz

South African new vehicle sales begin 2025 on a high note

Vehicle sales in South Africa got off to a promising start in January, registering a 10.4% increase compared to the same period last year. "This has been a most welcome surprise for the industry," said Brandon Cohen, Chairperson of the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA), following the release of statistics for January 2025 by naamsa | The Automotive Business Council. Flying start for…

Feb 04, 2025 Buzz

Hopeful tone for 2025 new vehicle sales

New vehicle sales started the year in hopeful spirit, registering a significant 10,4% year-on-year growth according to data from naamsa | the Automotive Business Council. The positive outlook seemingly carries on momentum from fourth quarter 2024 sales but continues to face complex market dynamics. WesBank has forecast slow growth for SA’s new vehicle sales in 2025 as persistent economic…

Feb 04, 2025 Buzz

Hyundai Automotive South Africa appoints Zweli Mnisi as the new General Manager: Corporate Communications

Hyundai Automotive South Africa is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Zweli Mnisi, as the new General Manager: Corporate Communications, effective today, 03 February 2025. Zweli is an accomplished Communications Executive, with over 20 years' experience in brand management, corporate communications, media liaison, digital and stakeholder engagement; executed across various multinationals…

Feb 03, 2025 Buzz

naamsa releases January 2025 new vehicle sales stats encouraging signs sparks optimism

The Automotive Business Council expressed optimism that the positive momentum of the fourth quarter of 2024 continued into the first month of 2025. “We are absolutely confident that an improved economic outlook, coupled with higher business and consumer sentiment, will support the new vehicle market in 2025. Aggregate domestic new vehicle sales in January 2025, at 46,398 units, reflected an…

Feb 03, 2025 Buzz

Stellantis Simplifies Its Organization

Stellantis today takes steps to simplify its organization according to the changes communicated in December 2024. These measures allow for the right balance between regional and global responsibilities to enable speed of decision and execution. They further reinforce Stellantis’ commitment to listening to the voice of the customer and lay the ground for renewed growth. Through targeted…

Feb 03, 2025 Buzz

Audi South Africa announces Ricci Birchfield as new Head of Marketing, Product and PR

Audi South Africa is excited to announce Ricci Birchfield as the company’s new Head of Marketing, Product and PR. Ricci brings more than 18 years of experience in automotive, specialising in marketing, digital strategy and business transformation. With his record in leading digital initiatives and driving organisational growth, Ricci is well-positioned to take Audi South Africa into its next…

Feb 03, 2025 Buzz

Meals on Wheels South Africa Announces 2025 Extreme Cycle for Hunger Tour

Meals on Wheels South Africa, a leading non-profit organisation dedicated to alleviating hunger and poverty, is thrilled to announce the upcoming 2025 Extreme Cycle for Hunger. This annual cycling event brings together passionate individuals who share a commitment to making a difference in the lives of vulnerable South Africans. The Extreme Cycle for Hunger is a multi-day cycling tour that…

Feb 03, 2025 Buzz

2025 National Roadshow: Who needs BEE?!

NEASA is, and will always be, fundamentally opposed to the concept of BEE, because sacrificing any part of your business ownership, merely to comply with Government’s laws, goes against all sound business principles. Although not all businesses are forced to comply with BEE, an entirely separate and highly lucrative economy, regrettably, has been created because of BEE. NEASA comprehends…

Feb 03, 2025 Buzz

Top Achievers Shine in Eastern Cape Engen Maths & Science Schools Class of 2024

The Engen Maths and Science Schools 2024 matric class in Port Elizabeth, East London, and Cala achieved flying colours. Engen celebrated the effort and sacrifice of the top learners in the Eastern Cape at awards ceremonies held on Saturday, 1 February, at Kariega Uitenhage Town Hall, Lumko Secondary School in East London, and Khanyisa Special School in Cala. The EMSS programme, which provides…

Feb 03, 2025 Buzz

Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) Support for employers

NEASA is introducing a comprehensive service offering to assist employers in managing their Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) responsibilities with ease and efficiency. In partnership with a trusted specialist service provider, we ensure that employers receive expert guidance and support, simplifying the often complex UIF processes, while ensuring full compliance. This service offering provides…

Jan 31, 2025 Buzz

Jaw-dropping $400,000 Land Rover Restorations

Helderburg, an exciting new company restoring British Solihull UK-built left hand drive Land Rover Defenders. Based on a 300-acre farm in Upstate New York, Helderburg has exploded since launching in 2020 and is disrupting the vintage restomod Land Rover industry. Helderburgs are the most expensive and luxurious bespoke Land Rover restorations on the market with builds often exceeding $400,000…

Jan 31, 2025 Buzz

Toyota and Kaizer Chiefs unveil the ‘What It Means’ mascot vehicle

Kaizer Chiefs and Toyota are set to take fan engagement to a whole new level with the introduction of the ‘What It Means’ mascot vehicle – a special Quantum that is more than just a mode of transport – it’s an on-the-go tribute to the love and passion of Amakhosi fans. This one-of-a-kind Quantum will travel far and wide, bringing the spirit of Kaizer Chiefs directly to the people – from stadiums…

Jan 31, 2025 Buzz

Another month, another milestone for Jetour South Africa

Jetour South Africa has revealed that more than 2 000 retail units of its Jetour Dashing and X70 Plus models have been sold since the brand's local launch at the end of September last year. “We are extremely proud to have reached this important achievement. South Africa was always going to be an exciting market for Jetour to enter, with many opportunities for us to make our mark,” says Nic…

Jan 31, 2025 Buzz

MG’s SUV Tour de Force Exceed Expectation

At MG, we believe that excellence in our products is built upon three essential pillars: Fun to Drive, ‘Vigorous Design’, and ‘Futuristic Hi-Tech’. We strive to deliver vehicles that not only meet the practical needs of our customers but also exceed their expectations with innovative features and exceptional performance. Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction is unwavering, as we…

Jan 30, 2025 Buzz

Tonale design continues to garner international recognition. Now “Best Design 2025” in Chile

Alfa Romeo is proud to announce that the Tonale has won the prestigious Chilean “Best Design 2025” award. Recently presented in South American countries and more than two years after its international launch, the Tonale continues to be appreciated for its distinctive design and powerful “Made in Italy” connotation. The award assessment criteria focused on the innovation and originality of the…

Jan 30, 2025 Buzz

Ford South Africa Achieves Sales and Exports Growth Despite Market Declining in 2024

Ford South Africa recorded encouraging growth in both its domestic sales and its export volumes in 2024, despite both segments declining year-on-year. Having launched a raft of exciting new models over the past two years, Ford reinforced its commitment to delivering an even more compelling and competitive range of vehicles and services for its customers in the passenger car and light commercial…

Jan 30, 2025 Buzz

The R100bn BEE Fund is unconstitutional

The R100bn Transformation Fund (the Fund) recently proposed by Parks Tau, minister of trade, industry and competition, to help finance black business is unconstitutional on at least four grounds, says the Institute of Race Relations (IRR). According to Mr Tau, the Fund will be administered by the National Empowerment Fund – a state entity which has previously acknowledged that the main obstacles…

Jan 30, 2025 Buzz

Embracing mechanisation in South Africa’s agriculture sector to meet growing demands

South Africa’s agricultural sector stands at a pivotal moment. With production costs rising at an alarming 12.4% year-on-year, as reported by Statistics South Africa, farmers are grappling with the need to balance sustainability, profitability, and food security. At the UN Climate Change Conference (COP29), global leaders reinforced the urgency of transforming farming practices to adapt to…

Jan 30, 2025 Buzz

FUCHS LUBRICANTS Services Department enhances productivity, reduces downtime

By providing tailored, value-added services that complement its world-class lubricants, FUCHS LUBRICANTS SOUTH AFRICA ensures that clients achieve greater productivity, reduced downtime, and optimised maintenance cycles. “Our approach goes beyond simply supplying oils and greases,” explains Service Manager Tiaan Le Roux. “We deliver a complete solution by combining top-tier lubricants with expert…

Jan 30, 2025 Buzz

New Documentary in Partnership with Jetour Showcases the Cheetah Conservation Fund’s Efforts to Save Africa’s Cheetahs

A new documentary by the Discovery Channel, in partnership with Jetour, sheds light on the critical efforts to save cheetahs in the wild. Return of the Cheetah sees conservationist Hazen Audel and Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF) founder Dr. Laurie Marker team up to release ‘Jet,’ a rehabilitated cheetah, back into the wild where she belongs. September 2024 saw Jetour, one of the fastest growing…

Jan 29, 2025 Buzz

Automechanika Johannesburg 2025 Gears Up for Milestone 10th Edition at New Venue

Africa's premier automotive aftermarket trade fair, Automechanika Johannesburg, will celebrate its landmark 10th edition at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand from 28-30 October this year, strategically coinciding with Transport Month. Michael Dehn, Managing Director at show organiser Messe Frankfurt South Africa, emphasises the strategic importance of the venue change. “The move to…

Jan 29, 2025 Buzz

Steep incline continues for SA automotive industry in 2025

South Africa's automotive sector faces a challenging road ahead in 2025. While recent interest rate cuts offer a glimmer of hope, persistent economic headwinds and inflationary pressures continue to dampen consumer confidence and hinder growth. A tug-of-war for market share The arrival of more Chinese automakers will intensify competition. Their aggressive pricing strategies and focus on emerging…

Jan 29, 2025 Buzz

Steel industry: AMSA's Intended Closure of Their Long Steel Business: Urgent request for rebate provisions

AMSA’s intended closure of its long steel production in Newcastle, Vereeniging and at its AMRAS operations directly impacts the future local availability of long steel products. The remaining local producers of long steel products are unlikely to provide the range and volume produced by AMSA, leaving various industry sectors facing severe disruption. ITAC acknowledges the need for rebate…

Jan 28, 2025 Buzz

Armormax hits the road around Mzansi

Leading South African Luxury Armoured Car builder Armormax are about to embark on a nation-wide roadshow in their armoured 5th generation Toyota Land Cruiser Prado. The intention of the roadshow is not only to market it’s product, but also to educate Toyota dealerships around the country about this ever-increasing market segment. Marketing Manager Michael Broom says “We have always maintained a…

Jan 28, 2025 Buzz

ArcelorMittal Plant Closures: Legal Implications of Mass Layoffs

The recent announcement by ArcelorMittal to close its long-steel plants in Newcastle and Vereeniging has sent shockwaves through the South African steel industry. This decision, driven by challenging market conditions, high energy and logistics costs, and competition from low-cost imports, threatens approximately 3 500 direct and indirect jobs. Sean Snyman, one of the founding shareholders of…

Jan 28, 2025 Buzz

JLR invests £65m in sustainable expansion of luxury paint operations in the UK and Europe for Bespoke vehicle personalisation after demand doubles

JLR is investing £65m in sustainably expanding its special paint facilities globally to meet growing demand for personalised luxury vehicles and reduce the environmental impact of its most carbon intensive manufacturing processes. The company has seen demand for personalised colour options, where clients can choose from hundreds of Bespoke Paint and elevated palette options across its Range Rover…

Jan 28, 2025 Buzz

Last entrepreneur standing in Engen The Making Of walks away with R225 000

After eight high-stakes episodes, a whopping 2.3 million views and an impressive R800 000 in prize money, Engen The Making Of (TMO) has crowned Mongezi Masombuka, a 31-year-old IT entrepreneur from Johannesburg, its inaugural winner. A unique platform for entrepreneurs Designed to challenge entrepreneurs and showcase the realities of creating market-ready products under pressure, TMO is not just…

Jan 27, 2025 Buzz

2025 – It Could Go Either Way!

SOMI '25, a dynamic and multifaceted affair, served as an ideal stage for TSAM's President and CEO, Andrew Kirby, to present an insightful overview of the motor industry's current landscape from the perspective of South Africa's leading automotive brand. Additionally, the event offered a prime opportunity for Leon Theron, TSAM's Senior Vice President for Sales and Marketing, to unveil a variety…

Jan 24, 2025 Buzz

Mathe Group reaches millionth tyre recycling milestone

Hammarsdale-based radial truck tyre recycler, Mathe Group, has processed its millionth radial truck tyre, bringing the total amount of rubber crumb produced for re-use in key industrial and construction applications to around 38 500 tons, according to CEO Dr Mehran Zarrebini. Based on an infill of 100 tons of rubber crumb per full size artificial football field, this equates to 385 full size…

Jan 23, 2025 Buzz

Isuzu Motors South Africa Top Employer for a Third Year in a Row

Isuzu Motors South Africa (ISUZU) is proud to be recognised as a Top Employer in South Africa for a third year in a row by the internationally recognised Top Employers Institute. This prestigious certification highlights ISUZU's commitment to excellence in employee wellness and fostering a positive and inclusive workplace centred around the core value of Mutual Growth. Mongezi Hermans, Senior…

Jan 23, 2025 Buzz

Renault South Africa Announced as Official Vehicle Partner of Tennis South Africa

Tennis South Africa (TSA) and Renault South Africa have announced a groundbreaking three-year partnership, with Renault South Africa coming on board as the federation’s official vehicle partner. As part of this partnership, the national Davis Cup team will receive a significant boost, with Renault South Africa becoming the sponsor of the team. Moving forward, the national squad will be known as…

Jan 23, 2025 Buzz

Urgent message to South African business owners

If you want to protect your business against the interference of the ANC government, this message from NEASA Chief Executive, Gerhard Papenfus, is addressed to you!

Jan 22, 2025 Buzz

Audi South Africa donates proceeds from RS 6 Avant GT auction to worthy NPO

Audi South Africa celebrated the official handover of a R500,000 donation to the Kutlwanong Centre for Maths, Science and Technology following the successful auction of its one-of-a-kind Audi RS6 Avant GT in November last year. The handover event, held at Audi South Africa’s head office in Johannesburg, marks an important milestone in the brand’s ongoing commitment to social responsibility and…

Jan 21, 2025 Buzz

Jetour speeds ahead with record-breaking global sales and 80.3% growth in 2024

Jetour, the rapidly growing global SUV brand, has shattered industry records in 2024, achieving a remarkable 568 387 units in annual sales, marking an extraordinary 80.3% year-on-year growth. This exceptional performance positions Jetour as a major player in the global SUV market, reshaping the global automotive landscape with innovative products, affordable luxury and a customer-first approach.…

Jan 21, 2025 Buzz

SAs automotive sector gears up for growth as 2025 sparks optimism

Interest rates have been reduced, petrol prices saw multiple declines in 2024, and South Africa has achieved more than 300 consecutive days without loadshedding. These factors are contributing to a sense of optimism as 2025 begins. According to the Ipsos 2025 Predictions Survey, 84% of South Africans believe this year will be better than the last. Early indicators suggest 2025 is shaping up to be…

Jan 21, 2025 Buzz

Volkswagen Group Africa recognised as a Top Employer for the 14th year in a row

Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA) has once again been honoured with the Top Employer certification. This is a result of continued pursuits to create a healthy working environment which fosters development and success for their people. VWGA has received this accolade every year since 2011 from the Top Employers Institute. The Top Employers Institute is a globally recognised organisation that is…

Jan 21, 2025 Buzz

Government's R100 billion enterprise development fund: Just another ANC cash-cow

The recent announcement by Minister Parks Tau that Government wants to establish a R100 billion “transformation fund” is yet another typical example of the ANC’s ambition to enforce its delusional and misguided socialistic economic policies, as well as its misplaced confidence in its own abilities to manage such an enormous fund, while keeping its fingers out of the proverbial cash register. The…

Jan 21, 2025 Buzz

GAC Motor South Africa Partners with Hulisani Ravele as Brand Ambassador

GAC Motor South Africa is proud to announce its official partnership with renowned South African broadcaster and media personality, Hulisani Ravele, as the brand’s first-ever South African brand ambassador. This exciting collaboration coincides with the launch of the highly anticipated GAC EMZOOM in the South African market. The partnership aims to create authentic storytelling that resonates…

Jan 21, 2025 Buzz

Rescuing AMSA … But at what cost?

The current big news is that Government is in discussion with AMSA in a potential attempt to keep its long steel business operational. NEASA’s position regarding this controversial matter should not be viewed as being unsympathetic towards the plight of the community of Newcastle, which will be massively affected by these events. Although NEASA adopts a specific stance in this regard, we are well…

Jan 20, 2025 Buzz

Navigating the 2025 Used Car Market: Insights from getWorth

The used car market has experienced dramatic changes over the past few years, creating both challenges and opportunities for sellers. For those looking to sell a quality car, understanding the current market dynamics is key. Here’s what you need to know and why now is a strategic time to consider selling your car. A Market in Transition For many people, their car represents one of their most…

Jan 20, 2025 Buzz

Punctured your tyres due to rocks or spikes on the road?

Here’s what your tyres are capable of to potentially get you away from danger With the rise in road spiking incidents, where sharp objects are deliberately placed on roadways to damage vehicles and target unsuspecting drivers, safety on our roads has become a pressing concern. Dunlop Tyres SA’s leading technical tyre expert, Keith Phelps, provides the following key information for drivers –…

Jan 20, 2025 Buzz

How Smart Logistics Powers T20 Cricket

Sports is deeply ingrained in South African culture, evoking a powerful emotional connection that generates an electrifying atmosphere for both players and spectators. By Gregory Saffy MD Operations Sub-Saharan Africa Among these cherished sports, cricket stands out as a unifying force, bringing millions of South Africans together. It transcends borders, ignites resilience and passion, and…

Jan 20, 2025 Buzz

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

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

Jan 20, 2025 Buzz

Attention turns to AMR as the 2025 edition attracts global leaders offering solutions to stimulate innovative advancements in the aftermarket

As the world embraces green development, the automotive aftermarket is undergoing a dynamic transformation driven by new energy, AI and digital expansion. In this regard, traditional service providers are not just adapting; they are actively seeking to optimise services, enhance efficiency, and achieve sustainability. To meet these evolving market needs, the 73rd edition of the Auto Maintenance…

Jan 17, 2025 Buzz

APAC automotive roof systems market to record 3% CAGR over 2024-29, forecasts GlobalData

Automobile manufacturers in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region are focusing on enhancing vehicle aesthetics and offering a premium experience in affordable car segments, with roof systems playing a key role in their efforts to stay competitive. Sunroofs have become a major consumer requirement, leading manufacturers to integrate them into budget cars. Additionally, factors like rapid urbanization,…

Jan 17, 2025 Buzz

A Prosperous New Year with BAIC SA: Driving Innovation into 2025

Happy New Year, BAIC Family! As we step into 2025, we want to take a moment to thank you for being such an integral part of our journey. Your support, enthusiasm, and trust inspire us to keep pushing boundaries and delivering vehicles that fit seamlessly into your lifestyle. Here’s to a year filled with new adventures, shared milestones, and countless unforgettable moments on the road together.…

Jan 17, 2025 Buzz

Exploring a Bright Future in Motor Body Repair: An Alternate Pathway for South African Matriculants

This week, the Department of Basic Education released the 2024 matric results, and the country celebrated the highest matric pass rate in its history, rising from 82.9% in 2023 to 87.3% in 2024. Amidst the celebrations, many young South Africans now find themselves at a crossroads, pondering their next steps. Juan Hanekom, National Director of the South African Motor Body Repairers Association…

Jan 16, 2025 Buzz

Fuzhou‘s “Dark Factory” - the centre of Jetour’s global manufacturing excellence

Located in Fuzhou, the capital of Fujian province in southeastern China, is a state-of-the-art automotive facility that boasts an impressive manufacturing pace of one car every 100 seconds, all while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainability. This is Jetour’s "Dark Factory”, referred to as such because of the advanced automation and robotics utilised where minimal human intervention is…

Jan 16, 2025 Buzz

Stellantis Reports Q4 2024 Consolidated Shipment Estimates

-9% Q4 y-o-y decline in shipments improved vs. -20% in Q3, as inventory reduction actions concluded and new product launches in Europe reduced gaps in the Company’s offering related to our generational portfolio transition Stellantis N.V. today published global quarterly consolidated shipment estimates and provided commentary on related business trends. The term shipments describes volumes of…

Jan 16, 2025 Buzz

Axalta Introduces Evergreen Sprint as 2025 Global Automotive Color of the Year

Newest shade pays homage to the legendary British racing green Axalta Coating Systems (NYSE: AXTA), a leading global coatings company, announced its 2025 Global Automotive Color of the Year – Evergreen Sprint. This marks the 11th year Axalta has introduced its automotive color of the year and the second time it has featured a green shade. Evergreen Sprint is a rich, deep forest green that pays…

Jan 16, 2025 Buzz

Daimler Truck Southern Africa achieves a hat trick of success with the achievement of Top Employers Automotive Industry Leader for the third consecutive year

On the 16th of January 2025, the Top Employers Institute announced the certification of companies in South Africa, their respective rankings as well as leading companies per industry. DTSA is ecstatic to claim victory for remaining the automotive industry for the third consecutive year in a row and improving to the third place in the Top 20 ranking of companies in South Africa. Nathier Jappie,…

Jan 16, 2025 Buzz

Bridgestone Completes Flagship Ecopia Long-haul Tyre Range with Launch of Trailer Axle, Helping Fleets Reduce Fuel Consumption and Carbon Emissions

Bridgestone EMEA (Bridgestone) is completing the line-up of its flagship long-haul Ecopia tyre range with ENLITEN technology, following the launch of Ecopia Trailer. With this addition to the range, highway fleets can now improve fuel efficiency and reduce total cost of ownership across Steer, Drive and Trailer axles, while all three also contribute to significantly lowering CO2 emissions.…

Jan 16, 2025 Buzz

ArcelorMittal South Africa (AMSA) closure – where to for Automotive manaufacturing in SA?

The announced closure of ArcelorMittal South Africa (AMSA), long steel production from the Newcastle blast furnace could significantly impact the South African automotive sector, a cornerstone of the country's economy. A core supplier of speciality steel, AMSA has been central to automotive manufacturing, providing high-grade materials critical for components into vehicle production lines. This…

Jan 16, 2025 Buzz

SAMBRA Toolbox: Empowering excellence in autobody repair

The South African Motor Body Repairers’ Association (SAMBRA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation, announced the national launch of its comprehensive SAMBRA Toolbox in December 2024 - a groundbreaking resource, designed exclusively for members and aimed at empowering members to achieve operational excellence and industry transformation. Juan Hanekom, National Director of…

Jan 16, 2025 Buzz

Technical schools driving careers in the automotive sector

The automotive industry is evolving rapidly, and technical schools are playing a vital role in preparing young South Africans for a dynamic career in this sector. With a focus on equipping students with both practical and theoretical skills, these institutions are helping bridge the gap between education and industry, ensuring a skilled workforce for the future. Since its inception in 2019, the…

Jan 15, 2025 Buzz

Building the Ranger Engines

Ford’s Struandale Engine Plant in Nelson Mandela Bay has played an instrumental role in the success of the locally assembled Ford Ranger – both in South Africa and in the more than 100 markets it is exported to around the world. All the engines used in the Silverton-built Ford Ranger are proudly manufactured at the Gqeberha facility, using the latest technologies and advanced quality management…

Jan 15, 2025 Buzz

POPIA: Direct marketing guidance note

On 3 December 2024, the Information Regulator published a Guidance Note on what lawful direct marketing practices in South Africa entails. This note clarifies the requirements for processing of personal information for purposes of direct marketing, within the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) framework. Non-electronic communication: Where direct marketing communication is by…

Jan 15, 2025 Buzz

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

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

Jan 15, 2025 Buzz

Jaguar Land Rover Classic appoints new director, Dominic Elms

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

Jan 15, 2025 Buzz

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

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

Jan 14, 2025 Buzz

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

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

Jan 14, 2025 Buzz

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

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

Jan 14, 2025 Buzz

National Minimum Wage: Recommended increase NEASA's commentary

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

Jan 14, 2025 Buzz

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

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

Jan 13, 2025 Buzz

Race Quotas: Sectoral Targets Consultations

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

Jan 13, 2025 Buzz

Race Quotas: "Proposed" employment equity targets surprise employers

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

Jan 10, 2025 Buzz

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

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

Jan 10, 2025 Buzz

Global superstar Alan Walker announced as Jetour Brand Ambassador

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

Jan 10, 2025 Buzz

45 years and still leading the way

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

Jan 09, 2025 Buzz

MSA Closure: NEASA calls on ITAC to scrap duties

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

Jan 09, 2025 Buzz

Car repair training programme aims to address shortage of critical skills

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

Jan 09, 2025 Buzz

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

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

Jan 09, 2025 Buzz

Steel industry: AMSA on life support

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

Jan 09, 2025 Buzz

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

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

Jan 08, 2025 Buzz

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

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

Jan 08, 2025 Buzz

Bosch Car Service Launches Sixth Service Centre

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

Jan 08, 2025 Buzz

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

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

Jan 08, 2025 Buzz

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

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

Jan 07, 2025 Buzz

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

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

Jan 06, 2025 Buzz

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

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

Jan 06, 2025 Buzz

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

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

Dec 23, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 20, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 20, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 20, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 20, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 20, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 19, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 19, 2024 Buzz

First Dream Drive Winner Drives Off in a Golf 8 GTI

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

Dec 19, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 19, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 18, 2024 Buzz

Mixed outlook for fuel prices in January

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

Dec 18, 2024 Buzz

Three Suzuki owners whose cars helped steer them through the year

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

Dec 17, 2024 Buzz

Mobalyz enters final restructuring phase amid positive sentiment

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

Dec 16, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 16, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 16, 2024 Buzz

Volkswagen’s Plant Kariega ends 2024 with a production record

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

Dec 16, 2024 Buzz

Steel Industry Scrap Metal Report

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

Dec 16, 2024 Buzz

NADA Chairperson Comments on CPI and Festive Season Spending

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

Dec 16, 2024 Buzz

Steel Industry: ITAC's unparalelled arrogance and ignorance

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

Dec 13, 2024 Buzz

Pedestrians are jumping in front of vehicles

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

Dec 13, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 13, 2024 Buzz

Ekurhuleni springs into action with Jetour fever!

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

Dec 12, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 12, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 12, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 12, 2024 Buzz

Unsafe – Hollard is working to make our roads safer

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

Dec 12, 2024 Buzz

Brasil Auto Parts achieves significant results in 2023-2024

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

Dec 12, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 11, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 11, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 11, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 11, 2024 Buzz

Festive season annual shutdown

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

Dec 11, 2024 Buzz

Minister of Labour admits: Employment Equity Stifles Business Growth

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

Dec 11, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 11, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 11, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 11, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 11, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 11, 2024 Buzz

South Africa shines in Stellantis Student Awards

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

Dec 10, 2024 Buzz

Enhance Your Holiday Experiences with BAIC: Your Perfect Travel Companion

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

Dec 10, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 10, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 10, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 09, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 09, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 09, 2024 Buzz

Jetour hits 1 000 retail sales milestone since September launch

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

Dec 09, 2024 Buzz

Aspire's Inaugural Collectable Car Auction Revs Up Success

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

Dec 06, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 06, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 06, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 06, 2024 Buzz

Check Out Your Tyres Before Caravan Season Begins

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

Dec 06, 2024 Buzz

Hyundai Automotive SA bids farewell to Deon Sonnekus

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

Dec 06, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 06, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 05, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 05, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 05, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 05, 2024 Buzz

Why exhibit at SAPICS 2025?

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

Dec 04, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 04, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 03, 2024 Buzz

Toyota sells more than 12,000 units in November

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

Dec 03, 2024 Buzz

Johannesburg Expo Centre and The Rand Show celebrate milestone anniversaries

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

Dec 03, 2024 Buzz

NEASA Skills Training: Training January 2025

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

Dec 03, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 03, 2024 Buzz

Layton Beard resigns from the AA

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

Dec 03, 2024 Buzz

Stellantis Organizational Announcement

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

Dec 03, 2024 Buzz

November best new vehicle sales month of 2024

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

Dec 03, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 03, 2024 Buzz

Zimbabwean exemption permits (ZEPs) Extended

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

Dec 02, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Dec 02, 2024 Buzz

Unforgettable Customer Connections

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

Dec 02, 2024 Buzz

naamsa releases November 2024 new vehicle sales statistics

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

Dec 02, 2024 Buzz

Board Accepts Carlos Tavares’ Resignation as Chief Executive Officer

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

Dec 02, 2024 Buzz

Habot grease line Brugarolas has a 140-year rep

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

Dec 02, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 29, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 29, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 29, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 28, 2024 Buzz

Countdown to TyreXpo Asia 2025: Registration Now Open for Visitors

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

Nov 28, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 28, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 28, 2024 Buzz

10 Transformative Insights from Henkel SA’s Inaugural Sustainability Indaba

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

Nov 27, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 27, 2024 Buzz

Road Freight Industry: CON/ARB Process introduced

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

Nov 26, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 26, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 26, 2024 Buzz

Toyota Genuine – Here. For life

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

Nov 25, 2024 Buzz

Dynamic tests on Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale at iconic Nardò circuit

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

Nov 25, 2024 Buzz

Sustaining and Growing the Automotive Sector in South Africa

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

Nov 25, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 25, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 25, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 21, 2024 Buzz

GAC Motor Unveils New Flagship Dealership in Bryanston, South Africa

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

Nov 21, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 21, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 21, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 21, 2024 Buzz

This is Jaguar. Bold. Dramatic. Fearless

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

Nov 21, 2024 Buzz

A Legacy of Hope: VW Community Trust celebrates 35 years

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

Nov 21, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 21, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 21, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 21, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 20, 2024 Buzz

Jetour Ballito brings beautiful SUV offering to Dolphin Coast

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

Nov 20, 2024 Buzz

Hino hands over mobile offices to Gauteng Transport Authority

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

Nov 20, 2024 Buzz

New branding for Mobil Delvac™ from African Group Lubricants

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

Nov 20, 2024 Buzz

Volkswagen Group Africa commissions additional solar panels at Kariega plant

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

Nov 20, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 20, 2024 Buzz

Employment Equity: Services for employers

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

Nov 20, 2024 Buzz

Pack smart with Thule this holiday season

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

Nov 19, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 19, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 19, 2024 Buzz

Zimbabwean exemption permits (ZEPs) deadlines reminder

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

Nov 19, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 19, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 19, 2024 Buzz

Mahindra drives Lions Cricket

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

Nov 19, 2024 Buzz

Urgent notice: Potential power cuts in Johannesburg

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

Nov 18, 2024 Buzz

Introducing new, powerful headline partners

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

Nov 15, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 15, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 15, 2024 Buzz

Understanding the consequences of loan defaults on your credit score

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

Nov 15, 2024 Buzz

Unlocking the key to attracting talent to bodyshops

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

Nov 15, 2024 Buzz

Davide Grasso Appointed Stellantis Chief Heritage Officer

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

Nov 15, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 15, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 15, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 15, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 15, 2024 Buzz

Refusal to be vaccinated: Labour Court declares dismissal unfair

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

Nov 13, 2024 Buzz

MIWA Showcases Supplier Partnerships at Automechanika Johannesburg

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

Nov 13, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 13, 2024 Buzz

Steel Industry employer - save your industry now!

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

Nov 13, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 13, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 13, 2024 Buzz

A Moment of Reckoning: Ramaphosa confronts the ANC

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

Nov 12, 2024 Buzz

2025 SA Car of the Year SAGMJ committee announced

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

Nov 12, 2024 Buzz

Chery Global celebrates milestone of one million Tiggo 7 exports

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

Nov 12, 2024 Buzz

Hyundai Open becomes part of golf’s Sunshine Tour

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

Nov 12, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 12, 2024 Buzz

One week to go: Experience Automotive Excellence at Automechanika 2024

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

Nov 12, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 12, 2024 Buzz

NEASA Skills Training: Training December 2024

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

Nov 11, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 11, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 11, 2024 Buzz

SA auto glass masters share top tips for business

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

Nov 11, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 11, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 11, 2024 Buzz

Enable independent power producers

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

Nov 11, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 08, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 08, 2024 Buzz

FAW Trucks Southern Africa Celebrates Record JH6 28.500FT Sales

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

Nov 08, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 08, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 07, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 06, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 06, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 06, 2024 Buzz

Powerful partners join forces for Fleet Safety Awards

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

Nov 06, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 06, 2024 Buzz

Stellantis WePledge improves ownership experience

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

Nov 06, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 06, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 06, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 06, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 06, 2024 Buzz

Toyota kicks off last quarter sales in high gear

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

Nov 05, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 05, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 05, 2024 Buzz

Suzuki Auto South Africa sets new sales record in October

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

Nov 05, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 04, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 04, 2024 Buzz

Steel Industry reminder: Anti-dumping duties: Participant survey

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

Nov 04, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 04, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 04, 2024 Buzz

Automechanika Shanghai celebrates 20 years with interactive anniversary events

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

Nov 04, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 04, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 04, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 04, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 04, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 04, 2024 Buzz

Stellantis expands Opel, PEUGEOT, and Citroën brands in Mpumalanga

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

Nov 01, 2024 Buzz

naamsa releases October 2024 new vehicle sales statistics

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

Nov 01, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 01, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 01, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 01, 2024 Buzz

Steel Industry: Anti-dumping duties: Participant survey

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

Nov 01, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 01, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Nov 01, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 31, 2024 Buzz

FMF bemoans balanced but bloated budget

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

Oct 31, 2024 Buzz

TecAlliance to Present Industry-Leading Solutions at Automechanika Johannesburg

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

Oct 31, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 31, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 31, 2024 Buzz

Jetour hosts first Journey with Jetour customer event in Cape Winelands

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

Oct 30, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 30, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 30, 2024 Buzz

Empowering Women in Leadership: Navigating the Contemporary Corporate Landscape

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

Oct 30, 2024 Buzz

Leaders share expectations for medium-term budget speech

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

Oct 30, 2024 Buzz

New Alfa Romeo Junior wins "autonis" design award

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

Oct 29, 2024 Buzz

UIF SYSTEM FAILURES: Ongoing issues despite assurances

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

Oct 29, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 29, 2024 Buzz

Hanekom appointed as National Director of SAMBRA

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

Oct 29, 2024 Buzz

Africa Road Safety Summit: Registration closing soon

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

Oct 29, 2024 Buzz

NADA supports a balanced and transparent approach

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

Oct 28, 2024 Buzz

Suzuki Auto South Africa shines bright at SAVRALA MOTY Awards

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

Oct 28, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 28, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 28, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 25, 2024 Buzz

Iveco South Africa celebrates successful handover at Courier Incubator initiative

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

Oct 25, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 25, 2024 Buzz

Small businesses need supply chain skills to survive

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

Oct 25, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 25, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 25, 2024 Buzz

Gear Up for Automechanika South Africa: Your Automotive Aftermarket Powerhouse

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

Oct 24, 2024 Buzz

Rare earth magnetic filters for the quench and lubricating oil industries

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

Oct 24, 2024 Buzz

Toyota South Africa recognised at the 2024 Naamsa Accelerator Awards

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

Oct 24, 2024 Buzz

Ombud Council welcomes Re-appointment of FAIS ombud

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

Oct 24, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 24, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 24, 2024 Buzz

The Manufacturing Indaba 2024 Closes to a Resounding Success

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

Oct 24, 2024 Buzz

Sovereign wealth fund is a foolish idea

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

Oct 24, 2024 Buzz

The most hijacked vehicle colours in South Africa

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

Oct 24, 2024 Buzz

Partquip Expands Digital Presence with TecDoc Integration as a Data Supplier

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

Oct 24, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 23, 2024 Buzz

Investment in economic freedom always yields dividends

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

Oct 23, 2024 Buzz

Silver bullets are for shooting werewolves

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

Oct 23, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 23, 2024 Buzz

Collision Industry Red Carpet Awards Tuesday Night during SEMA

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

Oct 23, 2024 Buzz

AAPEX 2024 Is Just 2 Weeks Away ...

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

Oct 22, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 22, 2024 Buzz

WesBank congratulates the winners of the 2024 naamsa Accelerator Awards

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

Oct 22, 2024 Buzz

ISUZU claims triple victory at the 2024 naamsa Accelerator Awards

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

Oct 22, 2024 Buzz

Suzuki Clean Ocean Project helps revive the Hennops River

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

Oct 22, 2024 Buzz

Empowering road safety education in Limpopo

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

Oct 22, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 22, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 21, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 21, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 21, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 21, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 21, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 21, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 21, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 21, 2024 Buzz

Automechanika Johannesburg Exhibitor list is now live

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

Oct 18, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 18, 2024 Buzz

GAC Motor South Africa announces its expansion in KwaZula-Natal

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

Oct 18, 2024 Buzz

FUCHS offers complete lubricant solutions for hybrid vehicles

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

Oct 18, 2024 Buzz

CHARGE welcomes President Ramaphosa’s announcement of incentives for EVs

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

Oct 18, 2024 Buzz

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Oct 17, 2024 Buzz

Intelligence needed to solve rampant crime

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

Oct 17, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 17, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 17, 2024 Buzz

Time is up - compulsory asbestos inspections

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

Oct 17, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 17, 2024 Buzz

South Africa ranks 81st among 165 jurisdictions in Economic Freedom

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

Oct 17, 2024 Buzz

Manufacturing Indaba Announces the Women in Manufacturing Breakfast hosted by Absa

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

Oct 17, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 16, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 16, 2024 Buzz

Domestic Workers: Registration with the Compensation Fund

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

Oct 16, 2024 Buzz

Standox introduces new special effect red mixing tint

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

Oct 16, 2024 Buzz

Young robotics team takes world title

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

Oct 16, 2024 Buzz

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

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

Oct 16, 2024 Buzz

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

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