The Toyota Starlet goes from zero to hero
- Industry News
- 3 September 2026
Dealer industry news from around Southern Africa
Volkswagen is confronting one of the most turbulent periods in its 89‑year history, with mounting competition from Chinese automakers, declining demand in Europe and stiff tariffs in the United States (US).
The board of the Automotive Industry Development Centre Eastern Cape has placed Thabo Shenxane, its chief executive officer, on precautionary suspension from 25 June 2026, pending an investigation into alleged transgressions and concerns about the organisation’s culture.
Hyundai Motor and Kia are working on a new way to help keep vehicle interiors cleaner, using advanced ultraviolet light technology designed for future mobility services.
Subaru’s global reputation for safety continues to stand out, with independent crash-test results reinforcing the brand’s focus on protecting occupants and preventing collisions, the manufacturer claims.
Hyundai Automotive South Africa has successfully defended its title, being named the Distributor of the Year for aftersales service by Hyundai Middle East, Africa and India, out of a total sixty countries.
For decades, the global car industry treated long development cycles as a mark of seriousness.
Daimler Truck Southern Africa (DTSA) proudly marked a significant milestone with the celebration and handover of its 150 000th locally assembled truck, a Mercedes‑Benz Actros 2645LS/33 at its East London assembly plant. The milestone vehicle was delivered to TT Group Holding.
South Africa’s automotive industry is one of the country’s most strategic sectors, contributing to exports, employment, and industrialisation.
Toyota’s new chief executive, Kenta Kon (photo), has taken his place on the company’s board with a blunt promise to attack waste, simplify operations and restore sharper discipline at the carmaker after a bruising shift in Japan’s corporate hierarchy.
Stellantis, Wayve and Uber have announced a partnership to explore the development and deployment of Level 4 autonomous robotaxis worldwide.
Automotive events play a vital role in supporting industry growth by encouraging networking, knowledge exchange and business opportunities, a theme carried through many of the automotive industry events planned for the second half of this year.
According to a report by Reuters, Wang Chuanfu, chairman of BYD, said on Tuesday he expected the Chinese firm to become the world's largest automaker within five years, as he sought to reassure investors following a steep decline in the company's share price.
Father’s Day in South Africa has a way of sneaking up on you. One minute you are braaiing in shorts in May, the next you are standing in a hardware store aisle in June pretending that a set of novelty golf tees qualifies as a meaningful gift.