Of the 262 281 new light vehicles (passenger cars and light commercial vehicles) that were imported to South Africa in 2021, a staggering 49.3%, came from India.
The remaining portion was imported from 23 other countries, including Japan, China and Germany.
Imports of these vehicles increased from 203 572 units in 2020 to 262 281 units in 2021 – an increase of 28.8%.
Passenger car imports accounted for 78.3% of the total passenger car sales of 340 340 units, while light commercial vehicle imports accounted for 18.1% of total light commercial vehicle sales of 133 078 units.
In the resulting competition between imported and locally manufactured vehicles, South African consumers were the winners as they were spoiled for choice at competitive prices.
The top counties of origin for vehicles imported into South Africa were:
1. India (Tata, Mahindra)
2. Japan (Honda, Toyota, Suzuki, Mitsubishi, Datsun, Subaru, Nissan, Mazda, Lexus)
3. China (Baic, Haval, Foton)
4. Germany (Peugeot, Smart, Renault, BMW, Jaguar, Audi, Volvo, Porsche, Mercedes Benz, Fiat, Mini, Alfa Romeo, Land Rover
Many forward-thinking individuals propose that autonomous vehicles will improve road safety as problematic driver behaviour, which contributes to 90% plus crashes, will be eliminated. A recent incident may cause some to doubt this, however.
South Africa’s vehicle market has seen a steady influx of emerging brands, alongside continued expansion from established players.
Motorists travelling over the Easter period can expect heavy traffic across South Africa’s road network, with authorities warning that routes to Limpopo will come under particular pressure as thousands of pilgrims make their way to Moria.
Advertisement
Advertisement
I have bad reflexes. I was once run over by a car being pushed by two guys
Woody Allen
Many forward-thinking individuals propose that autonomous vehicles will improve road safety as problematic driver behaviour, which contributes to 90% plus crashes, will be eliminated. A recent incident may cause some to doubt this, however.
South Africa’s vehicle market has seen a steady influx of emerging brands, alongside continued expansion from established players.
Motorists travelling over the Easter period can expect heavy traffic across South Africa’s road network, with authorities warning that routes to Limpopo will come under particular pressure as thousands of pilgrims make their way to Moria.
