Kia’s Tasman bakkie arrives in South Africa
Kia has taken a bold step into one of South Africa’s most competitive automotive segments with the launch of the Tasman, its first-ever double cab bakkie.
- Product News
- 9 April 2026
Absa and Renault in South Africa announced a strategic alliance designed to drive market-leading growth for both businesses.
This partnership brings to market the launch of Renault Financial Services, an Absa finance product aimed at offering finance plus a comprehensive suite of financial services to Renault customers.
Through this alliance, Renault dealers will gain unprecedented access to Absa's robust portfolio of financial solutions for both retail and wholesale finance. This integration will also provide a seamless, efficient experience for dealers and customers alike, streamlining operations and enhancing customer experience.
"By aligning our services with those of the Renault dealership network, we are not just offering financial solutions but also creating an ecosystem that supports the automotive industry’s growth and development," says Charl Potgieter, Managing Executive: Absa Vehicle Finance.
Key benefits of this alliance include Absa and Renault in South Africa collaborating to deliver bespoke, flexible finance and credit solutions to customers. The alliance will also leverage an expanded sales network to accelerate growth for both alliance partners, setting the stage for Absa and Renault in South Africa to compete head on in the automotive sector.
“At Renault, we are committed to delivering high-quality vehicles and a customer experience that exceeds expectations. We believe Renault Financial Services, an Absa finance product, will add to the Renault Value-Added Services offering aimed at enhancing the customer buying experience and drive vehicle sales for the Renault dealership network,” says Shumani Tshifularo, Chief Executive Officer: Renault of South Africa.
As a leading pan-African bank, with a presence in 15 countries on the continent, Absa supports its partners in exploring new opportunities across the continent. The bank’s digitally powered approach will also ensure that Renault Financial Services’ customers enjoy market-leading turnaround times on deals, from application to payout.
“Our alliance with Renault in South Africa underscores our commitment to being a primary partner to our clients. Our goal is to offer customers seamless financial solutions, empowering them to write their life stories with their mobility needs taken care of,” Charl says.
Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA) has reached another major milestone with the production of the 500 000th unit of the current Polo for the export market.
Nissan South Africa has agreed to sell its Rosslyn production facility after 60 years of operation. The plant, which produced models such as the 1400 ‘Champ’ bakkie, NP200 and Navara, was acquired by Chery SA. The Chinese automaker has sold over 80,000 vehicles locally since 2021 and is now strengthening its African presence.
Following an intense national selection process that pushed participants to the limit, South Africa’s representatives for the 2026 Defender Trophy global final have been decided.