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
Electric vehicles (EVs) have introduced a whole new vocabulary into motoring. Instead of simply talking about litres of fuel, cylinders and kilometres per tank, motorists are now confronted with kW, kWh, AC, DC, WLTP, regenerative braking and a host of other terms.
Young South African motorists are increasingly opting for more affordable and practical vehicles as the cost of living puts pressure on household budgets, while still maintaining comprehensive insurance cover.
The row over BMW’s Spider-Man promotion is not really about superheroes. It is about trust, control and the creeping feeling that modern cars are becoming digital platforms first and private possessions second.
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Cars are the ultimate symbol of freedom, independence and individualism. They offer the freedom to ‘go anywhere,’ whenever it suits and with whom one chooses.
Sarah Redshaw
Young South African motorists are increasingly opting for more affordable and practical vehicles as the cost of living puts pressure on household budgets, while still maintaining comprehensive insurance cover.
The row over BMW’s Spider-Man promotion is not really about superheroes. It is about trust, control and the creeping feeling that modern cars are becoming digital platforms first and private possessions second.
With forecasts of snow, icy rain and stormy weather across the country, motorists are urged to drive carefully and adapt their driving style to suit the conditions.
