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
Keyloop, a global leader in automotive technology, has announced a new agreement to become an official reseller of AI Assistant’s AI-powered email conversation platform.
This cutting-edge solution enables automotive retailers to automate and personalise customer interactions via email, delivering human-like conversations that drive engagement and sales.
The agreement builds on the recent partnership between the two companies, which saw Keyloop resell AI Assistant’s Cleanse solution, another tool driven by AI that optimises the accuracy and quality of customer records.
AI Assistant’s AI-Powered Conversation Platform is designed to automatically engage in back-and-forth email conversations with customers and prospects, interpreting each reply and responding in a manner that mirrors human communication. It handles a range of tasks autonomously, from forwarding leads to designated team members to scheduling future contact to updating customer records.
By adopting a conversational tone that adapts to each customer’s language and style, the AI Assistant ensures a personalised experience that fosters customer engagement and satisfaction.
Key Benefits for dealerships:
• Save Time: AI Assistants handle routine follow-ups, freeing up sales teams to focus on high-priority interactions.
• Increase Responsiveness: Timely, automated replies help maintain customer interest and increase conversion rates.
• Improve Accuracy: Responses are based on real-time vehicle data, ensuring customers receive precise information.
• Boost Customer Satisfaction: Consistent, personalised communication builds loyalty and enhances the overall customer experience.
This new reseller agreement extends to Keyloop’s network in the UK, Middle East, South Africa, the Netherlands and Germany, allowing dealerships in these regions to benefit from AI-powered communication.
Commenting on the agreement, Ritchie Kelk, Director at AI Assistant, says: “AI Assistants allow dealerships to enhance customer engagement by offering seamless, timely and tailored responses. Our partnership with Keyloop represents a significant step in bringing this innovative technology to more markets, and we’re excited to help dealerships improve both their sales performance and customer satisfaction.”
Commenting on the agreement, Harvey, Chief Revenue Officer at Keyloop adds: “We are delighted to expand our relationship with AI Assistant. By offering their AI-Powered Conversation Platform in tandem with the Cleanse Solution, we can help our customers to further streamline their operations and provide a better customer experience through intelligent automation. This partnership allows us to continue delivering cutting-edge solutions to automotive retailers, helping them respond more quickly and accurately to customer needs.”
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.