Automotive events play a vital role in supporting industry growth by encouraging networking, knowledge exchange and business opportunities, a theme carried through many of the automotive industry events planned for the second half of this year.
They bring together original equipment manufacturers, component suppliers, policymakers, technology innovators and investors to identify opportunities, address challenges and explore collaboration.
These gatherings help shape mobility solutions, enhance visibility, attract investment and support market expansion. In South Africa, expos and trade shows showcase domestic capabilities, promote exports and encourage skills development.
The future of South Africa’s automotive sector will depend on the strength of partnerships both nationally and internationally.
Overall, automotive events act as catalysts for innovation, partnership and competitiveness in a rapidly evolving industry. Key national and international events scheduled for 2026 include the following, according the latest naamsa (The Automotive Business Council):
South Africa:
· Festival of Motoring: The ninth edition will take place from 28 to 30 August 2026 at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit in Johannesburg (http://www.safestivalofmotoring.com)
· SA Auto Week: Organised by naamsa, the fifth edition will be held from 13 to 16 October 2026 in Durban, KwaZulu Natal. The theme is “Transforming Tomorrow Today. Resetting Policy. Advancing the Energy Transition. Driving Investment and Inclusive Growth” (http://www.naamsa.net)
· Automechanika Johannesburg: The eleventh edition will run from 27 to 29 October 2026 at Gallagher Convention Centre, Midrand, Johannesburg (automechanika.za.messefrankfurt.com).
International:
· Automechanika Frankfurt: Scheduled from 8 to 12 September 2026 in Germany
· Automechanika Dubai: Scheduled from 10 to 12 November 2026 in the United Arab Emirates
Audi South Africa has introduced the new Q5 range, comprising the third-generation Q5 SUV, second-generation Q5 Sportback, and the performance-focused SQ5 SUV and SQ5 Sportback. The range is built on Audi's Premium Platform Combustion and brings a new generation of petrol and diesel engines to the nameplate.
Geely Auto South Africa (GASA) has introduced Riddara, Geely Auto Group's new energy bakkie brand, to the South African market.
Ford’s next big electric vehicle push is less about a dramatic new badge and more about what happens behind factory doors.
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South Africa's new vehicle market sustained strong momentum in August 2026, with aggregate sales increasing by 11,4% year-on-year to 57 898 units, says the Automotive Business Councill | naamsa.
South Africa’s new-vehicle market maintained its momentum in August, with aggregate sales of 57 898 units representing an increase of 11.4% compared with the same month last year.
