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
Francie Lubbe has been appointed as the new General Manager of DFSK South Africa. The appointment marks the start of a bold, new chapter for the brand, which continues to expand its footprint in the country’s commercial vehicle landscape, it says in a statement.
Francie takes up this leadership role on the back of a proven track record in dealer development, national network support and the growing of numerous emerging brands in the South African automotive industry over the past 35 years.
Lubbe boasts a reputation for strengthening teams, empowering dealers and maintaining the standards required to build long-term trust.
“We are excited to welcome the energy, structure and fresh direction that Lubbe will bring to the brand. Francie’s leadership style aligns with DFSK’s mission of delivering value -driven vehicles supported by a dealership network that is trained, supported and ready for growth,” says Gina Giani, Managing Director of DFSK South Africa.
As Francie looks to ensure that DFSK South Africa continues to build a stable, trusted presence in the market, there will be a strong focus on strengthening the DFSK dealership network, enhancing brand consistency and customer experience, driving aligned marketing and communications strategies and supporting product introduction and training initiatives.
“I am excited to step into this role at such a pivotal time for DFSK. The brand has enormous potential, and I look forward to working with our dealer network to unlock that potential,” she says.
DFSK recently celebrated its first birthday and during that time the company has substantially expanded its presence across South Africa into a network of 24 dealers.
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.