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
First Battery has announced the appointment of Shane Petersen (photo) as the company’s Director of Sales and Marketing.
Shane brings a wealth of experience from his extensive career spanning from mobility to energy, and from multinational enterprises to First Battery, says the company.
“As we transition towards a future defined by sustainability and innovation, Shane’s appointment demonstrates our commitment to driving positive change in the energy sector,” says Russel Bezuidenhout, CEO of First Battery. His extensive experience and strategic vision will be instrumental in advancing our mission of empowering industries and consumers with sustainable energy solutions.”
“Economies are transitioning from lead-acid to advanced lithium-ion batteries, signifying a fundamental evolution in energy storage technology. First Battery deeply understands the role of lithium-ion batteries in facilitating the shift to renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power. Lithium-ion presents a monumental leap in energy storage technology,” says Shane.
According to a recent report by Mordor Intelligence, the global battery market is projected to experience substantial growth from 2024 to 2029, with a remarkable 16.64% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), reaching a value of USD 132.44 billion by 2029.
This growth is primarily driven by declining lithium-ion battery prices, the increasing adoption of electric vehicles and the integration of batteries with renewable energy sources. Significant advancements in battery technology, including mechanically rechargeable zinc-air batteries offering improved economics and longevity, are anticipated.
The report further shows that innovations such as low-cost batteries utilising aluminium and sulphur electrodes with a molten salt electrolyte are enhancing the market's potential for affordable backup storage in renewable energy applications.
Meanwhile the market's expansion is further fuelled by a growing demand for uninterruptible power supply devices (UPS), the expanding e-mobility sector and ongoing advancements in product efficiency and cost effectiveness, according to First Battery.
“Petersen's appointment as our new Director of Sales and Marketing signifies our commitment to driving growth across all customer lines. With his expertise, we are positioned to meet the evolving needs of our customers and the market,” says Russel.
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.
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I have bad reflexes. I was once run over by a car being pushed by two guys
Woody Allen
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.