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
Well-known South African racing driver and competitor at the annual Simola Hillclimb, Pieter Joubert, died this weekend when his Lotus left the road, and he crashed.

Knysna Speed Festival, the organiser of the Simola Hillclimb, has confirmed seasoned competitor Pieter Joubert sadly passed away in an accident.
Pieter was out on his first run on day two of King of the Hill when he lost control of his Lotus on the fast uphill straight and veered off the course, after it appeared that something broke on the car.
The scene was immediately attended to by the event’s on-site medical, fire and emergency crews, but sadly he was pronounced deceased on the scene.
The family, who attended the event, was supported by the organisers.
“We are exceptionally saddened by this incident, and our thoughts and condolences are with Pieter’s family, team and friends,” says Ian Shrosbree, MD of Knysna Speed Festival. “Pieter’s brothers Dawie and Charl, who also competed, have expressed their wishes that we continue with the event.”
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.