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
Skills development and technical excellence are critical to the sustainability of South Africa’s automotive industry, says Ford.
As vehicle technology advances and customer expectations evolve, the demand for highly skilled technicians capable of diagnosing and maintaining complex systems has never been greater.
In line with this commitment to continuous learning and professional development, Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (Manufacturing) (Pty) Limited (“Ford South Africa”) hosted its Service Engineering & Operations (SE&O) Skills Contest celebrating the expertise, precision and passion of South Africa’s top Ford automotive technicians.
Nine of the country’s finest technicians competed across three custom-designed test stations, each featuring deliberately engineered vehicle faults. Participants were assessed on diagnostic methodology, logical fault isolation and the effective use of diagnostic tools: key competencies that define Ford’s standard of service excellence.
Underpinning the importance of the event was PK Umashankar, Director of Customer Service Operations, International Markets Group (IMG), who highlighted the global significance of technical mastery: “I’m excited to be here in South Africa for one of its top technical skills contests. IMG runs similar events across all our markets, and the winner from South Africa will fly to Bangkok to compete against the best from the IMG region. The quality of the contestants here is something we can all be proud of, and I look forward to hosting the South African winner on the international stage.”
“Top technicians are like gold, and in South Africa there are real opportunities to fast-track careers and be recognised for expertise,” says Kevin Heunis, Director of SE&O at Ford South Africa, emphasising the importance of recognising and retaining skilled professionals.
“Our dealerships offer world-class environments where talent is valued. By investing in their development, we ensure these professionals thrive and continue to drive growth and innovation right here at home. Technicians are the backbone of every dealership. Their expertise directly impacts customer satisfaction, retention and trust,” he says.
The event concluded with an awards ceremony recognising all nine finalists for achieving the top tier of technical talent within Ford’s dealer network.
Brendon Jordaan from Eastern Cape Motors North End was named South Africa’s Top Technician and will represent Ford South Africa at the IMG Skills Contest in Thailand this November. Marius Blanche from BB Ford Polokwane took second place and Michael Stewien from BB Ford Menlyn was placed third.
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.
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.
OMODA has expanded its South African lineup with the arrival of the C5 SHS hybrid, a new addition to the C5 range.
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I have bad reflexes. I was once run over by a car being pushed by two guys
Woody Allen
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.