Report Coverage
This report provides a comprehensive view of South Africa’s motor vehicle industry. It covers the manufacture, distribution, servicing and maintenance of motor vehicles, the manufacture and supply of automotive components, as well as vehicle salvage and recycling. It provides information on the industry value chain, domestic production, retail sales, and trade, as well as enterprise development, regulatory developments and corporate actions. The report also examines the industry’s current performance, emerging trends, and the challenges shaping its future, including factors, such as geopolitical instability, trade tariffs, macroeconomic conditions, environmental concerns, and competition. In addition, it profiles 128 players, including BAIC, BMW, Ford, Isuzu, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, Volkswagen, Volvo, Bell Equipment, Motus, AutoTrader, WeBuyCars, Midas, and Bidvest Salvage.
Introduction
• South Africa’s motor vehicle industry remains a vital economic sector, contributing 5.3% to GDP in 2025, employing around half a million people, and exporting 414,000 vehicles.
• Industry revenue rose to about R1.2tn in 2025, underpinned by stronger domestic demand and stable export volumes, with new vehicle sales rebounding by 15.7%.
• The new energy vehicle market remains small, accounting for just 2.8% of new sales in 2025, though growing demand for plug in hybrid vehicles lifted sales by 7.1% to nearly 17,000 units.
• Policy alignment, charging infrastructure, and affordable models are expected to support gradual growth in this subsector.
• Despite improved performance in 2025, the automotive industry continues to face major challenges, including sluggish economic growth, rising carbon taxes, intense import competition, geopolitical instability and trade tensions.
• Tariffs caused South Africa’s vehicle exports to the United States (US) to plunge by more than 80% in 2025, placing severe pressure on the industry.
Trends
• Consumer demand is increasingly focusing on affordability.
• Continued focus on local production, domestic sales and exports to Africa.
• Expansion of electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
• Exports of new vehicles and automotive components are growing.
• Financing of new and used vehicles is rising.
• Growth of digital sales channels and online platforms.
• Increased demand for parts and components.
• Investment in technology and R&D for technologically-advanced vehicles.
• Local vehicle manufacturers are transitioning to NEV production.
• Rising market share of Chinese brands.
• Steady growth in hybrid and electric vehicles (NEVs).
• Strong recovery in new vehicle sales.
• Sustainability and environmental concerns are driving the shift to NEVs, and companies are adopting more sustainable operating practices.
• Used vehicles remain in high demand.
Opportunities
• Adoption of renewable energy.
• Aftermarket, service and specialised components.
• Circular economy initiatives for vehicle and parts recycling.
• Demand for specialised technology and advanced vehicle services.
• Development of anti-counterfeit technology.
• Digital omni-channels and ecommerce platforms.
• Digital transformation and growth in data analytics.
• Expansion of local NEVs and battery production.
• Growth in budget brands and affordable vehicles.
• Innovative financing models.
• Localisation of component manufacturing.
• Regional exports.
• Supply chain diversification with local suppliers filling gaps.
• Sustained demand for used vehicles.
• Training and skills development.
• Transformation and supplier development.
Challenges
• Ageing vehicle population.
• Challenging economic environment, constrained consumer incomes, and affordability pressures.
• Counterfeit parts and grey imports.
• Environmental pressures.
• Exposure to tariff volatility and trade risks.
• Geopolitical shocks and supply chain disruptions.
• High input costs.
• Infrastructure and logistics challenges.
• Limited NEV uptake.
• Regulatory and compliance burdens.
• Skills shortages and labour costs.
• The component industry is under strain from rising costs, cheap imports and export tariff barriers.
Outlook
• South Africa remains a key production hub for several global brands, with manufacturing plants supplying both domestic and international markets. Vehicle exports continue to provide a strong backbone for the industry, with local sales showing resilience despite economic headwinds.
• While growth in new-vehicle sales and exports is fuelling cautious optimism, the industry faces mounting challenges from global competitors, regulatory pressures, and the transition toward electrification.
• The most transformative force shaping the industry’s future is the global shift toward electric vehicles. While adoption in South Africa remains slow due to infrastructure constraints, the pressure of carbon taxes and international trade standards is accelerating investment in electric vehicles production and distribution.
• The future of South Africa’s automotive industry is likely to be defined by its ability to adapt to global trends in electrification, sustainability, and digital transformation. The next decade will demand substantial investment in new energy vehicles, aftermarket innovation, and regulatory alignment.
Full Report
R 20 000.00(ZAR) estimated $1208.92 (USD)*
Industry Landscape
R 14 000.00(ZAR) estimated $ 846.24 (USD)*
Historical Reports
The Motor Vehicle Industry in South Africa 2024-12-17
R 9 500.00(ZAR) estimated $574.23 (USD)*
View Report Add to CartThe Motor Vehicle Industry in South Africa 2023-09-30
R 6 500.00(ZAR) estimated $392.90 (USD)*
View Report Add to CartThe Motor Vehicle Industry in South Africa 2022-06-22
R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $114.85 (USD)*
View Report Add to CartThe Motor Vehicle Industry in South Africa 2021-02-28
R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $114.85 (USD)*
View Report Add to CartThe Motor Vehicle Industry in South Africa 2019-10-28
R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $114.85 (USD)*
View Report Add to CartThe Motor Vehicle Industry in South Africa 2018-10-05
R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $114.85 (USD)*
View Report Add to CartThe Motor Vehicle Industry in South Africa 2017-06-28
R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $114.85 (USD)*
View Report Add to CartThe Motor Vehicle Industry in South Africa 2016-01-31
R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $114.85 (USD)*
View Report Add to CartThe Motor Vehicle Industry in South Africa 2014-09-17
R 1 900.00(ZAR) estimated $114.85 (USD)*
View Report Add to CartTable of Contents
[ Close ]| PAGE | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1. | INTRODUCTION | 1 |
| 2. | DESCRIPTION OF THE INDUSTRY | 2 |
| 2.1. | Industry Value Chain | 4 |
| 2.2. | Geographic Position | 7 |
| 2.3. | Size of the Industry | 8 |
| 3. | LOCAL | 30 |
| 3.1. | State of the Industry | 30 |
| 3.2. | Key Trends | 42 |
| 3.3. | Key Issues | 42 |
| 3.4. | Notable Players | 43 |
| 3.5. | Trade | 47 |
| 3.6. | Corporate Actions | 51 |
| 3.7. | Regulations | 56 |
| 3.8. | Enterprise Development and Social Development | 58 |
| 4. | AFRICA | 62 |
| 5. | INTERNATIONAL | 68 |
| 6. | INFLUENCING FACTORS | 79 |
| 6.1. | Unforeseen Events | 79 |
| 6.2. | Economic Environment | 80 |
| 6.3. | Labour | 81 |
| 6.4. | Environmental Issues | 84 |
| 6.5. | Technology, R&D and Innovation | 85 |
| 6.6. | Government Support | 86 |
| 6.7. | Crime | 87 |
| 6.8. | Grey Vehicles and Counterfeit Parts | 88 |
| 6.9. | Vehicle Prices | 89 |
| 6.10. | Input Costs | 91 |
| 7. | COMPETITIVE ENVIRONMENT | 92 |
| 7.1. | Competition | 92 |
| 7.2. | Ownership Structure of the Industry | 94 |
| 7.3. | Barriers to Entry | 95 |
| 8. | INDUSTRY SUMMARY | 96 |
| 9. | OUTLOOK | 98 |
| 10. | INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS | 99 |
| 11. | REFERENCES | 100 |
| 11.1. | Publications | 100 |
| 11.2. | Websites | 102 |
| ANNEXURE 1 – Industry Legislation and Regulations | 105 | |
| APPENDIX 1 – Manufacturers and Importers of Motor Vehicles | 114 | |
| APPENDIX 2 – Manufacturers of Bodies for Motor Vehicles, Trailers and Semi-Trailers | 116 | |
| APPENDIX 3 – Manufacturers of Parts and Accessories for Motor Vehicles | 117 | |
| APPENDIX 4 – Sale of Other New Parts and Accessories | 124 | |
| APPENDIX 5 – Domestic Vehicle Sales and Maintenance & Repair of Motor Vehicles: Dealerships | 126 | |
| APPENDIX 6 – Fitment Centres | 131 | |
| APPENDIX 7 – Auto Salvage Sector | 133 | |
| COMPANY PROFILES – Manufacturers and Importers of Motor Vehicles | 134 | |
| BAIC AUTOMOBILE SA (PTY) LTD | 134 | |
| BELL EQUIPMENT LTD | 137 | |
| BMW (SOUTH AFRICA) (PTY) LTD | 142 | |
| BUSMARK 2000 (PTY) LTD | 146 | |
| DAIMLER TRUCK SOUTHERN AFRICA LTD | 148 | |
| FAW VEHICLE MANUFACTURERS S A (PTY) LTD | 151 | |
| FORD MOTOR COMPANY OF SOUTHERN AFRICA (MANUFACTURING) (PTY) LTD | 154 | |
| ISUZU MOTORS SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 156 | |
| IVECO SA (PTY) LTD | 160 | |
| MAN AUTOMOTIVE (SOUTH AFRICA) (PTY) LTD | 163 | |
| MANUFACTURING COMMERCIAL VEHICLES SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 165 | |
| MARCOPOLO SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 166 | |
| MERCEDES-BENZ SOUTH AFRICA LTD | 168 | |
| NISSAN (SOUTH AFRICA) (PTY) LTD | 170 | |
| SCANIA SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 174 | |
| TATA MOTORS (SA) (PTY) LTD | 176 | |
| TOYOTA SOUTH AFRICA MOTORS (PTY) LTD | 178 | |
| TRANS MANUFACTURING (PTY) LTD | 180 | |
| UD TRUCKS SOUTHERN AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 182 | |
| VOLKSWAGEN GROUP AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 184 | |
| VOLVO GROUP SOUTHERN AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 186 | |
| COMPANY PROFILES – Manufacturers of Bodies for Motor Vehicles, Trailers and Semi-Trailers | 188 | |
| AFRIT (PTY) LTD | 188 | |
| ANGELO KATER MOTOR TRIMMERS (PTY) LTD | 190 | |
| DENEL VEHICLE SYSTEMS (PTY) LTD | 192 | |
| DESERT WOLF CONSULTING (PTY) LTD | 194 | |
| PARAMOUNT TRAILERS (PTY) LTD | 196 | |
| ROUTE MANAGEMENT (PTY) LTD | 198 | |
| TANK CLINIC (PTY) LTD | 201 | |
| WELFIT ODDY (PTY) LTD | 203 | |
| COMPANY PROFILES - Manufacturers of Parts and Accessories for Motor Vehicles | 205 | |
| ADIENT SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 205 | |
| ALFRED TEVES BRAKE SYSTEMS (PTY) LTD | 207 | |
| ATLANTIS FOUNDRIES (PTY) LTD | 209 | |
| AUNDE SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 211 | |
| AUTO INDUSTRIAL GROUP (PTY) LTD | 213 | |
| AUTOCAST SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 215 | |
| AUTOX (PTY) LTD | 218 | |
| BENTELER SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 220 | |
| BORBET SA (PTY) LTD | 222 | |
| BOSAL AFRIKA (PTY) LTD | 224 | |
| CORNING PRODUCTS SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 226 | |
| DANA SPICER AXLE SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 228 | |
| FAURECIA EMISSIONS CONTROL TECHNOLOGIES (CAPE TOWN) (PTY) LTD | 230 | |
| FAURECIA INTERIOR SYSTEMS SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 232 | |
| FEDERAL-MOGUL OF SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 234 | |
| FORD MOTOR COMPANY OF SOUTHERN AFRICA (MANUFACTURING) (PTY) LTD | 236 | |
| FORMEX INDUSTRIES (PTY) LTD | 238 | |
| G U D HOLDINGS (PTY) LTD | 240 | |
| HESTO HARNESSES (PTY) LTD | 243 | |
| HUDACO INDUSTRIES LTD | 245 | |
| KAP LTD | 250 | |
| LUMOTECH (PTY) LTD | 254 | |
| MA AUTOMOTIVE TOOL AND DIE (PTY) LTD | 256 | |
| MAHLE THERMAL AND FLUID SYSTEMS SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 258 | |
| MAXION WHEELS SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 260 | |
| METINDUSTRIAL (PTY) LTD | 262 | |
| PG GROUP (PTY) LTD | 266 | |
| ROBERT BOSCH (PTY) LTD | 270 | |
| SCHAEFFLER SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 274 | |
| SMITHS MANUFACTURING (PTY) LTD | 277 | |
| TENNECO EMISSION CONTROL (PTY) LTD | 280 | |
| TENNECO RIDE CONTROL SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 282 | |
| TOYOTA BOSHOKU SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 284 | |
| UNIFRAX EMISSION CONTROL SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 286 | |
| COMPANY PROFILES – Sale of Other New Parts and Accessories | 288 | |
| AFRICA MOBILITY SOLUTIONS (PTY) LTD | 288 | |
| ALERT ENGINE PARTS (DIVISION OF MOTUS GROUP LTD) | 290 | |
| DESAMARK (PTY) LTD | 292 | |
| HUDACO INDUSTRIES LTD | 294 | |
| IVECO SA (PTY) LTD | 299 | |
| MAN AUTOMOTIVE (SOUTH AFRICA) (PTY) LTD | 302 | |
| METAIR AFTERMARKET PARTS AND RETAIL (PTY) LTD | 304 | |
| SKF SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 307 | |
| SUBARU SOUTHERN AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 310 | |
| TOYOTA SOUTH AFRICA MOTORS (PTY) LTD | 313 | |
| VOLVO CAR SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 315 | |
| WORLDWIDE AUTOMOTIVE GROUP (ENTERPRISES) (PTY) LTD | 317 | |
| ZF SERVICES SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 319 | |
| COMPANY PROFILES - Domestic Vehicle Sales and Maintenance & Repair of Motor Vehicles: Dealerships | 321 | |
| BABCOCK AFRICA SERVICES (PTY) LTD | 321 | |
| BAIC AUTOMOBILE SA (PTY) LTD | 324 | |
| BMW (SOUTH AFRICA) (PTY) LTD | 327 | |
| CAR CITY HOLDINGS (PTY) LTD | 331 | |
| CARS ON THE INTERNET (PTY) LTD | 334 | |
| CFAO MOBILITY (PTY) LTD | 336 | |
| COMBINED MOTOR HOLDINGS LTD | 342 | |
| DAIMLER TRUCK SOUTHERN AFRICA LTD | 347 | |
| FAW VEHICLE MANUFACTURERS S A (PTY) LTD | 350 | |
| HATFIELD HOLDINGS (PTY) LTD | 353 | |
| HOMEFIND24 (PTY) LTD | 355 | |
| HONDA MOTOR SOUTHERN AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 357 | |
| ISUZU MOTORS SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 360 | |
| IVECO SA (PTY) LTD | 364 | |
| JAGUAR LAND ROVER (SOUTH AFRICA) (PTY) LTD | 367 | |
| LAZARUS MOTOR COMPANY (PTY) LTD | 369 | |
| LSM DISTRIBUTORS (PTY) LTD | 371 | |
| MAHINDRA AND MAHINDRA SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 373 | |
| MAN AUTOMOTIVE (SOUTH AFRICA) (PTY) LTD | 377 | |
| MCCARTHY (PTY) LTD | 379 | |
| MOTUS HOLDINGS LTD | 386 | |
| NISSAN (SOUTH AFRICA) (PTY) LTD | 392 | |
| NMI DURBAN SOUTH MOTORS (PTY) LTD | 396 | |
| ROBERT BOSCH (PTY) LTD | 400 | |
| SANDOWN MOTOR HOLDINGS (PTY) LTD | 404 | |
| STELLANTIS SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 406 | |
| SUBARU SOUTHERN AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 409 | |
| SUPER GROUP LTD | 412 | |
| SUZUKI AUTO SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 416 | |
| UD TRUCKS SOUTHERN AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 421 | |
| VOERTUIE VIR ALMAL (PTY) LTD | 423 | |
| VOLVO CAR SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 426 | |
| WATERWORLD (PTY) LTD | 428 | |
| WE BUY CARS (PTY) LTD | 430 | |
| COMPANY PROFILES – Fitment Centres | 433 | |
| AUTO AND TRUCK TYRES (PTY) LTD | 433 | |
| BANDAG SOUTHERN AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 436 | |
| CONTINENTAL TYRE SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 440 | |
| GLASFIT SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 445 | |
| HI-Q AUTOMOTIVE (PTY) LTD | 452 | |
| KWIK FIT BRANDS (PTY) LTD | 458 | |
| PG GROUP (PTY) LTD | 460 | |
| SUMITOMO RUBBER SOUTH AFRICA (PTY) LTD | 464 | |
| SUPA QUICK RETAIL (PTY) LTD | 468 | |
| TIAUTO INVESTMENTS (PTY) LTD | 472 | |
| COMPANY PROFILES – Auto Salvage Sector | 477 | |
| ACME SALVAGE (PTY) LTD | 477 | |
| BLUE SPEC HOLDINGS (PTY) LTD | 479 | |
| CITY DEEP 4 X 4 COMMERCIAL SPARES (PTY) LTD | 482 | |
| COASTLINE AUTO REBUILDS AND SPARES CC | 484 | |
| COMBINED AUTOMOTIVE SOLUTIONS (PTY) LTD | 485 | |
| DYNAMIC SALVAGE MANAGEMENT CC | 487 | |
| M AND D HOUSE MOTORS CC | 489 | |
| SALVAGE MANAGEMENT AND DISPOSALS (PTY) LTD | 490 |


