In a time of accelerating transformation for the automotive sphere, from new brands entering the market to a range of anticipated policy shifts, Absa is proud to partner with the key industry voices as a lead sponsor of Dealercon 2025.
Dealercon is a premier gathering of motor dealer leaders, OEMs, fintech disruptors and industry thought leaders, providing a platform to shape the next chapter of South Africa’s mobility story. The event is planned for 17 September 2025 at the Sandton Convention Centre.
The theme for 2025, Shift Happens, is a rallying cry. It captures both the urgency of the moment and the bold decisions that will define the industry’s relevance and growth moving forward.
As a trusted financial partner to the automotive sector, Absa is committed to enabling opportunities for collaboration across key stakeholders. We’re excited to be part of the conversations that matter and the solutions that will shape the road ahead.
“Our track record of collaboration across the industry is strong, with being a primary partner to our clients forming a key part of our business strategy. Our flagship Golden Partner Awards has run for over three decades and is testament to our commitment to honouring excellence among motor dealers,” says Charl Potgieter, Managing Executive at Absa Vehicle and Asset Finance.
“We have also played a role in connecting our automotive partners with new markets, leveraging our presence in 16 countries in Africa and abroad to drive value for our customers and associates. That is why we are proud to extend our support once again to the industry helping to bring Dealercon 2025 to life,” he stated.
Hosted by Cars.co.za, the Dealercon experience promises insightful dialogue on digital transformation of the industry, fresh intelligence with the launch of the Cars.co.za Industry report powered by TransUnion and provocative ideas from industry thought leaders, including naamsa CEO Mikel Mabasa and CEO of Business Leadership South Africa Busi Mavuso.
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Have you ever noticed that anybody driving slower than you is an idiot, and anyone going faster than you is a maniac?
George Carlin
Volvo has confirmed that its vehicles will now integrate Google’s Gemini artificial intelligence system. This development builds on the company’s existing collaboration with Google, which already provides Android Automotive OS and Google services in Volvo models.
New vehicle sales in 2026 continued their positive trend in April, with the 47 979 units sold marking the best April figure since 2013. This represents a remarkable performance by local automotive retailers despite a host of economic headwinds and a challenging trading environment.
April 2026 marked a turning point in South Africa’s economic landscape, as global energy markets were jolted by escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, according to naamsa | The Automotive Business Council.
