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 Insurance was recognised for outstanding success at the prestigious 2023 SAMBRA Awards in three significant categories: Best Insurer, Winner in the Service Excellence Category and Best Insurance Payer.
The SAMBRA Awards, organised jointly by the South African Motor Body Repairers’ Association (SAMBRA) and Lightstone Group, celebrate the highest standards of quality and service in the motor body repair sector.
The winners were chosen through voting by over 650 SAMBRA members, followed by independent collation and auditing by Lightstone Group. An awards ceremony was held in Johannesburg recently.
Being recognised at these awards highlights Absa’s commitment to maintaining robust industry standards and excelling in areas crucial to both repairers and customers such as fair business practices, prompt payment and customer service. These accolades demonstrate Absa’s dedication to excellence and leadership in the insurance sector.
"Winning these awards in such important categories is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team," said Collin Molepe (photo), Managing Executive: Absa Insurance Company. "At Absa, we are committed to delivering exceptional service and support to the automotive repair industry and our customers. These awards acknowledge our continuous efforts in delivering superior customer experiences and maintaining fruitful relationships with motor body repairers across South Africa."
Absa Insurance Company is the bank’s short-term insurance arm and is one of South Africa’s leading providers of comprehensive car and home insurance solutions, which are suited to customer needs.
Absa extends its gratitude to SAMBRA and Lightstone for the acknowledgment and remains dedicated to advancing industry standards and delivering unparalleled service to its partners and clients.
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.