President Cyril Ramaphosa's State of the Nation Address (SONA) provided a clear focus on critical reforms needed to bolster South Africa's economy.
His emphasis on improving local government operations and addressing water system challenges is encouraging, as effective service delivery is essential for economic growth. The ring-fencing of revenue for essential services such as water and electricity is a welcome step.
So says Brandon Cohen, Chairperson of the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA), in his reaction to SONA.
“Nada also supports the President’s call for increased infrastructure investment and greater private sector involvement in rail and port operations. These initiatives will be vital for long-term economic stability. However, we remain mindful of the importance of balancing these ambitions with responsible fiscal management to avoid placing additional strain on an already pressured economy and its citizens.
“We are encouraged by progress on professionalising the public sector and reducing visa backlogs, which will help businesses access much-needed skills. Swift and effective implementation of these reforms is crucial to delivering meaningful outcomes for the automotive sector and the wider economy,” Brandon notes.
According to Joubert Roux, Managing Director of CHARGE, they welcome the President’s recognition of the potential of the EV sector to create jobs as an industry of the future.
“We are, however, disappointed by the lack of urgency and detail provided on how government plans to drive South Africa’s EV transition. The speech failed to address the critical need for expanded EV-charging infrastructure, particularly off-grid, renewable-powered stations.
“Without a national EV-charging network, which is powered by renewable energy, EVs remain impractical for most South Africans, and their environmental benefits are undermined by a reliance on a coal-powered grid.
“Despite the Electric Vehicle White Paper’s release in December 2023, which acknowledged these challenges, conflicting regulations and administrative inefficiencies continue to obstruct infrastructure roll-out. While we commend initiatives like the 150% tax incentive for EV manufacturers, stronger action is needed.
“It does not make sense to tax a carbon-free, climate-mitigating vehicle like an EV at 25%, while internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles are taxed at only 18%. Meanwhile, the DFFE, DOT and the Presidency emphasise the need to reduce carbon emissions and pursue sustainability. These taxes must be lowered to stimulate demand and drive market growth. We hope the government will fulfil its fiscal support commitments in the upcoming 2025 Budget Speech,” Joubert says.
CHARGE also states that while the President highlighted progress in infrastructure development, SANRAL continues to obstruct the roll-out of EV-charging infrastructure – particularly the green charging solution.
“We urge the Ministers of Infrastructure and Transport to acknowledge our requests for intervention and act as a facilitator in unlocking our investment in off-grid, solar-powered EV charging. This initiative will serve as a catalytic green infrastructure development, supporting the transition to net-zero transport, as outlined in the Department of Transport’s Green Transport Plan.
South Africa’s EV transition depends on a forward-thinking policy framework that prioritises green infrastructure and supports our ambitious climate targets.”
Customers looking to make their iCAUR their own now have an official route to do so, with the brand introducing an OEM backed customisation offering spanning wraps, decals, accessories and more extensive styling options.
LDV South Africa has introduced the T60 Max Plus, slotting in among the more powerful derivatives in its class, above the T60 Pro and T60 Elite.
Hyundai Automotive South Africa has broadened its compact SUV range with the introduction of the new Creta 1.5 Premium and the sportier Creta N Line, both aimed at strengthening the brand’s position in one of the country’s most competitive segments.
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Suzuki Auto South Africa has moved into its new head office and distribution centre at Longlake Logistics Park in Gauteng, marking another important milestone in the continued growth of the business in South Africa, the manufacturer claims.
South Africa’s automotive market is undergoing a notable transformation, with growing sales and rising interest in newer brands. Among them, Foton has achieved a significant milestone, surpassing 7 000 vehicles sold locally within just two years of re‑entering the market.
Naamsa, the Automotive Business Council, has announced the appointment of Dr Mncane Mthunzi as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective from Monday, 7 September 2026.
