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
Volkswagen Group Africa (VGA) has appointed Ryan Blumrick as the new Head of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.
Ryan has nearly 20 years of experience in the Volkswagen Group gained in South Africa, China, and Japan. He joined Volkswagen South Africa in 2006 and went on to hold multiple leadership positions within Audi South Africa in sales and marketing.
He later served as Head of Regional Sales and Marketing Strategy at SAIC Volkswagen Shanghai before moving to Japan, where he most recently held the position of Marketing Director for Audi Japan.
In his new role, Ryan aims to strengthen the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles brand, elevate customer‑centricity, and bring global best practices into the African market. His vision includes providing African countries with market specific product solutions and leveraging international insights to unlock new growth opportunities.
“We are confident that Ryan’s extensive global experience and proven leadership will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles in the African markets where it has presence,” says Niels Wichmann, acting Director of Sales and Marketing, Volkswagen Group 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.
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.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Have you ever noticed that anybody driving slower than you is an idiot, and anyone going faster than you is a maniac?
George Carlin
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.