Automotive Business Review

Sep 16, 2026 Motoring

A new look, a wild streak: Subaru’s next Outback is on its way

The all-new Outback will arrive in Q4 2026, with the rugged Wilderness joining the local line-up. Arriving in Q4 2026: The all-new Outback brings a bold new design and a thoroughly revised interior to South Africa. Wilderness joins the range: A…

Sep 16, 2026 Motorsport

From Philipstown to Formula 1: How a Small Karoo Town Captured the World's attention

In a small Northern Cape town where the most recent recorded unemployment rate stood at 34.49% in 2021, two handmade wire cars have achieved something extraordinary. Crafted in Philipstown by artisans from the Philipstown WireCar Foundation, the…

Sep 16, 2026 Buzz

Johnson Controls electrifies energy-intensive industries with new heat pumps that can triple energy efficiency and lower operating costs

Can deliver up to three times the energy efficiency of electric boilers and significantly improve efficiency compared with natural gas boilers, helping customers electrify high-temperature heat without compromising performance Delivers output…

Sep 16, 2026 Buzz

World’s number one automotive awards program begins its 23rd season as 100 international jurors start the journey to New York

The Road to World Car 2027 officially started yesterday, beginning a new season for the world’s number one automotive awards program and its 100 international jurors. The World Car Awards begins its 23rd season from a position of real strength.…

Sep 15, 2026 Buzz

POPIA Compliance: Practical support for your business

The Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) places clear responsibilities on businesses to ensure that personal information is collected, processed, stored, and protected appropriately. NEASA can assist. Our POPIA services include an…

Sep 15, 2026 Buzz

A smoother workshop experience starts before you arrive – 6 top tips to keep in mind

Taking your car to a workshop does not have to be complicated. In fact, a little preparation before you arrive can help make the experience easier for both you and your technician. For many motorists, a workshop visit only happens when something…

Sep 15, 2026 Mobility

Weelee’s Payment Holiday and Step Payment Options Help South African Buyers Navigate 2026 Car Affordability Challenges

Flexible finance options give qualified purchasers up to 90 days’ breathing room on repayments or lower initial instalments, making pre-owned car ownership more accessible amid rising living costs Weelee, South Africa’s trusted pre-owned car…

Sep 15, 2026 Motoring

Volvo Cars launches long-range plug-in hybrid variants of best-selling XC60 and XC90 SUVs

Volvo Cars today launches its first ever long-range plug-in hybrids for the European and American markets, with an expected arrival in South Africa during the first half of 2027. Introducing new variants of the best-selling XC60 and XC90 SUVs. The…

Sep 15, 2026 Buzz

iCAUR V23 reaches 100,000 global sales as South African sales grow

The electric SUV recorded 496 sales in its first three full months in South Africa, accounting for more than three-quarters of iCAUR’s local total. Less than two years after going on sale, the iCAUR V23 has reached 100,000 sales worldwide. Launched…

Sep 15, 2026 Buzz

Jetour celebrates two years in SA with a customer getaway to Brazil up for grabs

With six models, multiple derivatives, more than 55 dealerships and over 25 000 vehicles sold, Jetour is celebrating two years in South Africa this month on a high note. To mark this milestone, Jetour South Africa is giving two lucky Jetour owners…

Sep 15, 2026 Buzz

Ford employees bring Mandela Bear Magic to young patients at Nelson Mandela Childrens Hospital

Ford employees lovingly created bears for young patients at Nelson Mandela Childrens Hospital Silverton employees created 300 bears, with a further 50 created at Struandale Each bear carries a heart, a special wish and a handwritten message of…

Sep 14, 2026 Buzz

Opinion Piece: Keeping the fuel flowing - how flexible staffing keeps petrochemical plants running without full shutdowns

South Africa’s current fuel and energy challenges have completely changed how industrial plants must operate. In the past, factories and refineries followed a predictable routineand when it was time for maintenance, they would plan a traditional big…

Sep 14, 2026 Buzz

More exhibitors and visitors at Automechanika Frankfurt 2026

Automechanika Frankfurt 2026 impressed with an increase in the number of visitors, drawing over 112,000 trade visitors from 173 countries to Frankfurt for the five-day trade fair that serves as the industry’s meeting place. With 4,400 exhibitors…

Sep 14, 2026 Buzz

Report reveals the countries building out their EV charging infrastructure the fastest

With global EV sales rising for a sixth consecutive month, electric vehicle adoption continues to accelerate across major and emerging markets alike. As more drivers switch to EVs, the ability of charging infrastructure to keep pace is becoming an…

Sep 14, 2026 Buzz

South Africans Aren't Giving Up on Car Ownership. They're Just Buying Differently

TransUnion's Q2 2026 Mobility Insights Report reveals new passenger vehicle sales grew 15.8% year-on-year, the strongest annual growth in three quarters. The used-to-new vehicle registration ratio increased from 2.3 to 2.7, highlighting growing…

Sep 14, 2026 Buzz

The rise of robots in warehouses

The global economy is currently undergoing the biggest technological transformation in history, according to a report by asset managers ARK Invest. The disruptive innovation focused firm says that massive disruption is on its way, including in AI,…

Sep 14, 2026 Mobility

How electrified driving is redefining performance for a new generation

For most of driving history, the sound of excitement has been orchestrated by the internal combustion engine (ICE). The roar of exhausts, gear changes and high-revving performance signalled that drama was afoot. If it were an opera house, the ICE…

Sep 14, 2026 Motorsport

Killarney ready to crown National Champions

First 2026 South African champions to be decided in the Cape? While some of the chases will indeed go down to the finale a month later, several South African National circuit racing championships could well be decided at the penultimate sixth round…

Sep 14, 2026 Motorsport

Can Julian wrap it up at home?

A good day could clinch van der Watt a SA Touring Cars title Home hero Julian van der Watt heads to Killarney’s sixth South African Touring Cars round in a 24 point championship advantage. Should he add another ten points to that tally, Julian will…

Sep 14, 2026 Motorsport

Scheepers on the verge of Astron Energy Polo Cup title?

Penultimate round 30th Birthday Cup at Killarney Dainfern Dentist Hannes Scheepers has one hand on the 30th Anniversary 2026 Astron Energy Polo Cup Championship as the series returns to Cape Town for its second bite at the Killarney Raceway on…

Sep 14, 2026 Motorsport

Single seater struggle heads for Killarney

Aqil. Mikel take Investchem MSA4 battle back to Cape With just nine Investchem MSA4 South African National championship points between them, Aqil Alibha and Mikel Bezuidenhout take their 2026 title struggle to Cape Town when the sixth round National…

Sep 14, 2026 Motorsport

Can Chemical Logistics wrap it up at Killarney?

Team can leave the Cape with the title sewn up Chemical Logistics Racing is in a strong position as it heads to Killarney’s sixth round South African Touring Cars races in Cape Town on Saturday 19 September. With 34 points needed to be sure of the…

Sep 14, 2026 Motorsport

Volkswagen Motorsport chasing a Killarney step up

Volkswagen back to Killarney for Cape Extreme Festival Rookie Christopher Tait is keen to improve on his recent great 30th Anniversary Astron Energy Polo Cup form, while Volkswagen Motorsport SATC SupaCup teammate Rory Atkinson is keen on a similar…

Sep 14, 2026 Buzz

How to hire on merit, legally

Employers with 50 or more employees are now being measured against race and gender employment quotas that cannot be met in practice. That is the new Employment Equity regime. In the enclosed video, Gerhard Papenfus explains: Full compliance with the…

Sep 14, 2026 Buzz

A terminal in healing: SAFLA and the RFA acknowledge the movement towards DGT efficiency

The South African Freight and Logistics Association (SAFLA) and the Road Freight Association (RFA) were present during the recent interaction between DurbanGateway Terminal (DGT) and relevant stakeholders and organisations that have operations or…

Sep 14, 2026 Buzz

Engen showcases integrated mining solutions at Electra Mining Africa 2026

Engen reinforced its long-standing commitment to South Africa’s mining sector at Electra Mining Africa 2026, showcasing how integrated fuels, lubricants, technology-enabled solutions and technical expertise can help mining operations improve…

Sep 14, 2026 Mobility

Traxtion plans South Africa's first rolling stock registration under Luxembourg Rail Protocol

Private freight rail operator plans to apply for internationally recognised Unique Rail Vehicle Identification System (URVIS) identifiers for its R3.4 billion rolling stock, supporting future investment and long-term rail financing. Traxtion has…

Sep 14, 2026 Mobility

How Tech is Driving the Future of Mobility: International Mobility Leaders Meet at PIONEER Reception in Frankfurt

How will technology transform the mobility ecosystem of tomorrow? This question was at the heart of the exclusive PIONEER Reception “How Tech is Driving the Future of Mobility” on 10 September hosted by Automechanika and HEY/PIONEER at hall 2…

Sep 14, 2026 Mobility

Why safety should never be treated as an optional extra

By Gresham Pillay, Commercial Director, Volvo Car South Africa Getting a five-star Euro NCAP crash rating confirms how a vehicle performs against a specific, scripted collision, tested under controlled conditions and a fixed set of variables. It is…

Sep 14, 2026 Motorsport

Extreme Festival celebrates Spring in style

Surprises, great racing & title conundrums at Zwartkops Zwartkops celebrated spring in grand style when the 2026 Northern Regions Extreme Festival visited the Pretoria Raceway for a cracking fifth round on Saturday. If the various classes were on a…

Sep 14, 2026 Motorsport

ATE VW Challenge taught a Lessing

Anthony, Keegan & Bryce take Zwartkops to tighten title battles Anthony Lessing, Keegan Nathan, and Bryce Pillay each scored a grand slam as they dominated Zwartkops Raceway’s fifth round Northern Regions Extreme Festival ATE VW Challenge action on…

Sep 11, 2026 Buzz

Mobil™ Give a Drop campaign turns community nominations into practical support

From identifying local needs to delivering meaningful assistance, the first drop of the Mobil™ Give a Drop campaign demonstrates how a small intervention can create opportunities that extend well beyond the initial act of giving A single drop can go…

Sep 11, 2026 Mobility

Stucky Motors Brings FAW Trucks Closer to KZN Customers with New Kingsmead Dealership

New Durban retail hub strengthens FAW Trucks’ customer access while Stucky Motors showcases the brand at the Shongweni Motor Show For businesses that depend on trucks, accessibility is about far more than finding a showroom. It means being able to…

Sep 11, 2026 Buzz

Why SA’s industrial policy keeps locking in monopoly rents

This article by Donald Mackay of XA Global Trade Advisors a must-read for every business in South Africa — Gerhard Papenfus I got into trouble—I think unfairly—for saying that if you wanted to find the next failing sector in South Africa, just look…

Sep 11, 2026 Buzz

Automechanika ‘Lovers’: International customer programme achieves impressive interim results

Over 2,500 companies now hold Blue, Silver or Gold status as exhibitors within the Automechanika family of trade fairs. 51 of them are currently attending Automechanika in Frankfurt as ‘Gold Lovers’. They were personally honoured for their loyalty…

Sep 11, 2026 Buzz

RMI welcomes progress on SA’s electro-mobility skills pathway

First occupational skills programme approved as development of two more gets under way. The Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI) has welcomed an important milestone in the development of South Africa’s nationally recognised electro-mobility…

Sep 10, 2026 Motoring

Helderburg debuts "Vermeer": a bespoke Defender 110 re-engineered around light, art, and uncompromising trust

Inspired by 17th-century Dutch Master Johannes Vermeer and his celebrated mastery of light, Helderburg has unveiled its latest commission: Vermeer, a bespoke Land Rover Defender 110 crafted for a fine art collector. Shaped by complete creative…

Sep 10, 2026 Motorsport

La Monumental awaits: Inside F1's spectacular new Madrid circuit

By Graham Duxbury @TheRealDux This weekend, Formula One teams head to Madrid and the new 5.4km Madring circuit on the outskirts of the Spanish capital, where one of the most intriguing new additions to the modern Grand Prix calendar awaits. The…

Sep 09, 2026 Buzz

Commercial Fleet, Plant, and Cable Focus of Timed Online Auction

Park Village Auctions (PVA) has announced a timed online auction featuring a diverse catalogue of commercial transport, plant machinery, and industrial inventory originating from Milnex 587 (Pty) Ltd (In Business Rescue). That’s the word from PVA…

Sep 09, 2026 Mobility

Aston Martin and Brough Superior reveal its first street-legal motorcycle: the spectacular AMB 002 Roadster

AMB 002 is the first-ever road-legal Aston Martin and Brough Superior motorcycle Joins AMB 001 and AMB 001 Pro track-only superbikes to expand the product portfolio, deepening the partnership between the two iconic performance brands All-new AMB 002…

Sep 09, 2026 Buzz

ZF Aftermarket Announces New EV Repair Kits and Expanded Portfolio for a More Diverse Vehicle Parc

ZF Aftermarket advances its Maintain-Repair-Replace strategy with new targeted repair options for electrified drivetrains New repair solutions for e-motors, hybrid modules, inverters, mechatronics and electric drive unit reducers revealed ZF’s…

Sep 09, 2026 Buzz

Automechanika Frankfurt 2026 opens with Spanish automotive suppliers strengthening their international presence

Automechanika Frankfurt 2026 opens today and will bring together suppliers, distributors and industry professionals from around the world until 12 September, in what is set to be one of the most international editions in its history. Autoparts From…

Sep 09, 2026 Mobility

Report reveals the countries where public EV charging networks face the most and least pressure

With nearly 1.8 million public charging points built worldwide in 2025, the global total now nears 7 million, but the pace of infrastructure rollout varies dramatically from country to country. To provide a clearer picture of the charging power…

Sep 09, 2026 Motoring

Hyundai STARIA Facelift Launched in South Africa: Upgraded Technology, Sharper Styling and More Refined

Hyundai Automotive South Africa has introduced the facelifted STARIA to the local market, bringing updated styling, a more sophisticated cabin and upgraded infotainment technology to its distinctive premium multi-purpose vehicle (MPV). The Hyundai…

Sep 09, 2026 Buzz

Road Freight SME Summit 2026 to Unlock Working Capital and Growth Opportunities for South Africa’s Transport and Logistics SMEs

South Africa's transport and logistics SMEs will converge at the 4th Annual Access Road Freight SME Summit 2026, taking place on 21–22 October 2026 at the Indaba Hotel,Fourways, Johannesburg. Under the theme “Unlocking Working Capital: Practical…

Sep 09, 2026 Mobility

World EV Day: CHARGE puts EV claims to the test on the N3

To mark World EV Day today, Zero Carbon Charge (CHARGE) has launched the N3 EV Real-World Test, an initiative that will turn everyday electric vehicle journeys between Johannesburg and Durban into a growing source of real-world data for South…

Sep 09, 2026 Buzz

Radley Primary School invites families to experience entrepreneurial education at Northriding Open Day

Entrepreneurial primary school opens new Northriding campus to families choosing schools for 2027 As parents of future grade one learners embark on the exciting and sometimes daunting journey of settling on a primary school for 2027, many are…

Sep 09, 2026 Buzz

Automechanika Innovation Awards 2026: Here are this year's winners

The winners of the Automechanika Innovation Awards were honoured this evening at a gala awards ceremony on the first day of the Automechanika Frankfurt trade fair. The jury recognised innovations in ten categories, including Sustainable Drive…

Sep 09, 2026 Motoring

Hyundai Launches New CRETA for SA Motorists Looking for Suitable SUV

Local Drivers Set to Experience the N Line Model for the First Time in Mzansi Hyundai Automotive South Africa has expanded its offering in one of the country’s most competitive vehicle segments with the launch of the new Hyundai CRETA 1.5 Premium,…

Sep 09, 2026 Buzz

DSV manages 365-ton SAG mill movement from Germany to Africa

DSV managed the complex cross-border movement of four oversized Semi-Autogenous Grinding (SAG) mill components from Germany to South Africa. Collectively weighingmore than 365 tons, the shipment is destined for final delivery to a mine in Africa.…

Sep 09, 2026 Buzz

ZF Aftermarket Turns Vehicle Data into Faster Repairs

Earlier fault identification: remote access to vehicle diagnostic data enables technicians to assess issues before workshop arrival Faster service coordination: open digital workflows connect fleet operators, workshops and service partners across…

Sep 09, 2026 Buzz

How much control does a driver have when the algorithm sets their pay?

When an e-hailing driver receives a trip request, the fare displayed on their screen may look like a simple number, yet increasingly sophisticatedtechnology can sit behind that number, determining what a journey is worth and ultimately influencing…

Sep 09, 2026 Mobility

Quiz: should you consider an extended motor warranty?

Most of us insure our cars against accidents, theft and damage. But what about when something simply stops working? An electrical fault, gearbox failure, or major mechanical problem can quickly become an expensive surprise, which is why some drivers…

Sep 09, 2026 Motoring

OMODA & JAECOO brings hybrid power to the J5 with the all-new J5 SHS

OMODA & JAECOO South Africa has expanded the local J5 line-up with the introduction of the J5 SHS, adding a hybrid option alongside the existing ICE and the recently launched BEV models. The J5 SHS pairs a turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine with…

Sep 09, 2026 Buzz

SAPICS Golf Day will strengthen supply chain industry connections and collaboration

Supply chain industry body SAPICS will host its annual Golf Day on Thursday, 1 October 2026 at the Randpark Golf Club Championship Course in Johannesburg. Fourball bookings and hole sponsorship opportunities are still available and SAPICS urges…

Sep 09, 2026 Buzz

DFSK South Africa Expands Its Dealer Network

DFSK South Africa is pleased to announce the opening of two new dealerships: DFSK Vaal, operated by Top Speed Motors, and DFSK Welkom, managed by the team behind BMW Welkom and Park Motors. Top Speed Motors has been a cornerstone of the Vaal…

Sep 08, 2026 Buzz

SICK launches new image-based code reader for logistics and industrial environments

SensingCam SEC200: reliable 1D and 2D code reading made simple Fast, reliable scanning should be as simple as using a supermarket checkout or parcel dispatch point. The new sensingCam SEC200 image-based code reader from SICK brings that ease of use…

Sep 08, 2026 Buzz

Fleet Safety Awards 2026: entries now close 12 October ? extra time to get yours right

Good news — we've extended the Fleet Safety Awards 2026 entry deadline to 12 October 2026, giving you more time to compile an entry that truly reflects your organisation's safety performance. If you haven't started yet, now is the time. Or, if…

Sep 08, 2026 Mobility

Horse Powertrain reveals waterproof hybrid engine suitable for off road vehicles

HORSE B20 engine is a four-cylinder 2.0-liter turbocharged unit capable of 140-185kW power and 300-380Nm of torque Designed for hybrid vehicles that tackle extreme off-road terrains and deep-water wading Powertrain is fully waterproofed for depths…

Sep 08, 2026 Buzz

From second chances to a bright future

At just 25 years old, Jody Solomons has already overcome challenges that would have caused many people to give up. Instead, she chose resilience, determination and a belief that her future could be different. Today, Jody is a valued member of the…

Sep 08, 2026 Buzz

Opinion Piece: The real reason why alcohol-related disciplinary decisions are being put to the test in court

For many South African businesses, workplace alcohol policies are designed with the best intentions: to protect safety, maintain productivity, and reduce risk. But when these policies are not backed by proper procedures and reliable evidence,they…

Sep 08, 2026 Buzz

Barloworld Cat to Showcase the Full Strength of Its "One Partner. Every Solution." Campaign at Electra Mining Africa 2026

Barloworld Cat is bringing its "One Partner. Every Solution." campaign to life at Electra Mining Africa 2026, demonstrating how its integrated portfolio of equipment, technology, aftermarket support and specialised solutions enables customers to…

Sep 08, 2026 Motorsport

Aston Martin Vantage wins in Austin as the Heart of Racing Team claims a double podium

Aston Martin Vantage achieves its first WEC win of 2026, in the Lone Star Le Mans race at the Circuit of the Americas Heart of Racing Team claims first double podium in FIA World Endurance Championship at its home race Zach Robichon and Mattia Drudi…

Sep 08, 2026 Motorsport

A2RL Sets New International Benchmark with Europe’s First Five-Car Autonomous Race

UAE team Kinetiz wins A2RL’s first race outside of Abu Dhabi during ACI Racing Weekend hosted on Imola’s iconic Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari The Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League (A2RL) completed the first-ever multi-car autonomous…

Sep 08, 2026 Motorsport

Spirited Monza fightback positions Audi Revolut F1 Team for final European showdown

Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto launched strong recovery drives after difficult opening laps Smart strategy calls and the fastest pit stop of the Grand Prix allowed the team to maximise pace on a challenging circuit Development driver Freddie…

Sep 07, 2026 Buzz

Urgent local government challenges on the agenda when municipal engineers from around SA convene in durban for annual conference

The Institute of Municipal Engineering of Southern Africa (IMESA) has announced the programme for its 2026 conference, which takes place in Durban next month. The topics on the agenda include some of the most urgent challenges facing local…

Sep 07, 2026 Motorsport

Gauteng racers on Zwartkops knife's edge

Tight Regional Extreme chases add to the thrill The 2026 Northern Regions Extreme Festival returns to Gauteng with several championships poised on a knife’s edge for Pretoria’s fifth round at Zwartkops on Saturday 12 September. Local fans are in for…

Sep 07, 2026 Motorsport

ATE VW Challenge races back home

Zwartkops set for epic ATE VW Challenge action The ATE VW Challenge returns home to Zwartkops Raceway for its appointment at the fifth round Gauteng Northern Regions Extreme Festival where all three classes storm into action with their title chases…

Sep 07, 2026 Motorsport

Rotax Max blows strong at Killarney

Stiff South Easter did not quell Cape kart regional A clear, sunny day and a stiff Cape South Easter greeted the Western Province Rotax Max karters to a well-supported sixth round at the Killarney Kart Track on Saturday. The wind would not stop…

Sep 07, 2026 Mobility

EVs are changing the rules of motor body repair

As South Africa marks World EV Day on 9 September, the country’s growing adoption of electric vehicles is highlighting how dramatically vehicle technology is changing the motor body repair environment. Electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrid…

Sep 07, 2026 Buzz

Automechanika Frankfurt kicks off tomorrow with 4,400 exhibitors, forward-looking themes and new formats

From 8 to 12 September 2026, the leading international trade fair Automechanika Frankfurt will become the global meeting place for the automotive industry. Around 4,400 exhibitors from over 80 countries will present innovations for the entire…

Sep 07, 2026 Motoring

The Ultimate: Jeep Gladiator Maximus 6x6 released in South Africa

Full 6x6 capability Three differential locks Improved traction Original payload nearly double and increased GVM capacity Only standard driver’s licence required Ulterio Motiv, the company known for six-wheel conversions, has unveiled its most…

Sep 07, 2026 Motoring

LDV South Africa adds powerful new premium double cab to its line-up

This year’s Festival of Motoring saw the launch of another exciting addition to the LDV South Africa line-up - the new LDV T60 Max Plus. This double-cab 4x4 is powered by a 2.0-litre bi-turbo Euro V diesel engine, producing 160kW of power and 500Nm…

Sep 07, 2026 Buzz

Hyundai Goes the Exter Mile as Homecoming’s Official Vehicle Partner

Hyundai Automotive South Africa is taking its stylish Hyundai EXTER beyond the traditional automotive space and into youth culture, at one of the Gauteng’s biggest youth lifestyle events. Hyundai has been named the official vehicle partner of the…

Sep 07, 2026 Buzz

Too Many Lubricants? FUCHS Helps Farmers Simplify the Workshop

Your workshop is the heartbeat of your farming operation. Every tractor, harvester and utility vehicle depends on the right lubricant to perform reliably, minimise wear and keep working when it matters most. As farming operations grow and equipment…

Sep 07, 2026 Buzz

You Cannot Reap Jobs From a Dead Economy

The official unemployment rate is 33 percent. In the enclosed video, Gerhard Papenfus, Chief Executive of NEASA, says 43 percent is closer to the truth. Out of 42 million South Africans who could work, only 16 million are employed. Government calls…

Sep 07, 2026 Motorsport

Guy Botterill extended his lead in SA Rally-Raid Championship while Henry Köhne now leads overall navigator standings after team’s second consecutive victory

The Toyota Gazoo Racing driver, Guy Botterill, has extended his lead in the 2026 SA Rally-Raid Championship after claiming his second consecutive victory together with navigator, Henry Köhne. Botterilland Köhne won the recent Century Property…

Engen Thorntree ZZ Convenience Centre supports Siqobile Primary School with 100 pairs of school shoes

Sep 07, 2026 Buzz

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