Volkswagen Group Africa sets new monthly production record

Plant Kariega manufactured 17 009 vehicles in the month of July, improving on the previous monthly record of 16 670 units set a year ago, in July 2025.

This monthly volume is also higher than the plant’s annual production volumes before 1963. The plant has built Volkswagens since 1951, making 2026 the company’s 75th anniversary, but the factory previously also built Studebaker and Austin models from as early as 1948. The annual volume in the first full year of production at the factory was 977 units.

Of the record volume, 13 490 units were Polos for the local and export market, while 3 519 were Vivos for South African customers.

By the end of July, the plant had built a total of 4 836 371 vehicles to date since 1948. Nearly 40 models have been built at Plant Kariega throughout its long history.

This latest achievement comes against the backdrop of the 75th anniversary of Volkswagen in South Africa, which will be officially celebrated on 31 August.

“Setting a record like this close to our anniversary is a reminder of just how far we have come as a company,” said Martina Biene, VWGA Chairperson and Managing Director. “Volkswagen has built a legacy of quality and manufacturing excellence in South Africa, and this record is proof that we continue building that legacy and strengthening our presence with every vehicle we produce and sell,” she says.