Over the years, the event has earned a reputation as a benchmark in the automotive industry, known not only for its smooth and professional execution but also for consistently presenting compelling, relevant and thought-provoking speakers.

NADA Connect 2026 carried the theme, Amplify Your Impact, and placed strong emphasis on the power of social media content and the rapidly evolving influence of artificial intelligence. Around 600 delegates attended the event and heard from a distinguished line-up that included Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI) CEO Ipeleng Mabusela, Chery CEO Tony Liu, WeBuyCars Deputy CEO Dr Wynand Beukes and artificial intelligence (AI) strategist Dean Furman. The programme also featured an engaging interactive discussion with young influencers, hosted by Phillippa McCann-Davies.

Ipeleng brought welcome good news to the room, reassuring delegates that although the automotive aftermarket is not entirely shielded from global disruptions such as the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, it continues to demonstrate impressive resilience. He also shared a range of valuable industry statistics drawn from the RMI’s extensive research and data resources.

Tony offered a vivid and energising perspective on the Chery brand and the broader automotive sector. He emphasised that Chery’s ambition extends far beyond being a Chinese manufacturer operating in South Africa. The company aims to integrate fully into the local market and, in his words, strives to become a South African citizen.

Dean Furman, regarded as one of Africa’s leading innovation thinkers and CEO of 1064 Degrees, provided delegates with practical tools for elevating their use of artificial intelligence. He demonstrated how dealerships can integrate AI to achieve results that were once only attainable through costly marketing agencies.

Following Dean, Wynand illustrated how WeBuyCars has adopted AI to further refine and strengthen its already well established and industry shifting business model. His presentation highlighted the tangible benefits of AI when applied with clear purpose and thoughtful execution.

The event also saw NADA pay tribute to its former Director, Gary McCraw, acknowledging his decades long contribution to the automotive sector and celebrating his lasting impact on the industry.