Each year, Bothaville, in the Free State, hosts the event, which also gives car manufacturers a stage to present their newest models and technologies, while providing visitors with the opportunity to interact with these vehicles.

As guests of Ford SA at this year’s exhibition, we had the chance to explore the extensive range of offerings, from exhibitions of agricultural machinery, livestock, seeds and research to 4×4 demonstrations. 

To provide some context, nearly 100 000 people attended this year’s Nampo Harvest Day, which featured more than 600 exhibitors over the four days.

Here we look at some of the most intriguing vehicle debuts at this year’s Nampo.

Ford SA 

At the Ford booth, we were drawn to the new Tourneo and Transit, in addition to the Ranger Raptor, which stole the show with its tough appearance and its explosive exhaust notes.

The Tourneo will be going up against vehicles such as the Kia Carnival, Opel Zafira, Mercedes-Benz Vito and Hyundai Staria, to mention just a few. 

As an all-new model, it brings a host of changes, such as an eye-catching exterior; a 13-inch central touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay; a new 12-inch instrument cluster; a column-mounted shifter for the automatic models; increased instrument panel storage and space for eight passengers. 

A 2.0-litre single-turbo engine with 100kW and 360Nm powers the Tourneo, which retails for R999 200. 

The engine drives the front wheels via a new eight-speed automatic transmission.

The Transit long wheelbase panel van will resonate with businesses in South Africa for use in their day-to-day operations, thanks to a lengthened wheelbase, a larger side load door aperture, a new integrated access step, a total load volume of 5.8m3, a payload of up to 1 269kg and a maximum load length of 3 050mm. 

In terms of interior equipment, the Transit comes with a large 13-inch landscape touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with optional wireless charging; a 12-inch instrument cluster and an electronic handbrake. 

The Transit, which costs R692 200, has the same engine as the Tourneo, but it has a six-speed manual gearbox that drives the front wheels instead of an automatic transmission.

GWM

The Chinese brand had its Tank 500, P500 bakkie and updated Jolion SUV on full display under its umbrella, which includes Haval. 

Speaking of the P500 4×4 bakkie, it will be offered with a choice of a hybridised 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 255kW and 648Nm or a 2.4-litre turbocharged diesel with 135kW and 480Nm. 

Among its numerous features, the P500 features a panoramic sunroof and an electrically operated, split tailgate that can open downward as a single piece or horizontally in two sections. 

It is expected to launch here in the second quarter of the year. 

The Tank 500is a larger version of the Tank 300, that seats seven people and has an electric engine mated to a nine-speed automatic gearbox plus all-wheel drive. 

According to GWM SA, the Tank 500 offers advanced technology and outstanding performance over any driving conditions.

After its launch in South Africa in 2021, the Haval Jolion Pro was due for a refresh to keep it relevant in the segment and GWM debuted its facelifted variant at Nampo. 

Details surrounding the Jolion remain unclear at this stage but it’s worth mentioning that it brings a more stylish etiquette that customers will easily fall in love with. 

Toyota SA

Slotting in below the Land Cruiser 300 and above the Fortuner is the new Land Cruiser Prado, which made its first appearance at Nampo in 1st Edition and VX-R guises. 

As far as first impressions go, the Prado appears bigger than its predecessor with a squarer shape. 

With improved 4×4 dynamics and the brand’s well-known 2.8‑litre GD-6 at its heart, it’s poised to become yet another formidable contender in its segment. 

The recently launched Hilux GR-S III, with a price tag of R999 000, also debuted at Nampo with a much wider stance and a wide-body kit consisting of black plastic fender flares and all-terrain tyres. 

It employs the same 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine with 165kW and 550Nm of torque, making it a formidable contender against the Ford Ranger Wildtrak X. 

Accompanying these two vehicles is the Land Cruiser 70 range, a model that has long been a favourite among farmers across the country, as well as the Toyota Crown sedan. 

The latter has been on our roads since last year, but due to a stock shortage, the brand has held back on active marketing of the product.

Last year, we attended the Shanghai Auto Show, which was a testament to the rapid evolution of the automotive industry, with a significant presence of EVs, smart connected cars and more traditional vehicles.

The 2024 Auto China showcased some serious products and developments as consumer demand for EVs across the globe increases. We curated a selection of the most promising reveals from the event. 

Chery Tiggo 9

Chery plans to broaden its SUV line-up by launching the flagship Tiggo 9 three-row variant, which will position itself slightly above the Tiggo 8 Pro Max.

Specific details about the Tiggo 9 are not available. However, executives disclosed at the show that it will be available in selected markets before the end of the year. 

It will compete directly with other three-row SUVs, if it makes it to South Africa, which we expect given the brand’s global presence.

In terms of size, take my word for it, it’s no small SUV, a fact that’s apparent when putting it next to its Tiggo 8 counterpart. 

The Tiggo 9 is 4 810mm long, 1 925mm wide and 1 741mm tall. 

There’s an option for a five-seater variant, Chery says.

It brings a host of stunning design cues, as well as plenty of plush materials, 3D stitching on the seats, impressive cabin space with a 15.6‑inch infotainment system. 

According to Chery, the Tiggo 9 will come in plug-in hybrid electric and internal combustion powerplants. 

Lamborghini Urus SE 

Earlier this week, Lamborghini unveiled its first plug-in hybrid super-SUV, under the Urus SE nameplate.

At the show, two new Urus SE models, in red-and-white livery, took centre stage and what the SE badge brings is out of this world. 

Besides retaining the mighty 4.0‑litre V8 engine, and adding some sporty aesthetics, it offers some electrification in the form of an e-motor with 141kW and 483Nm, which is fed power by a 25.9kWh battery pack. 

The set-up is good for a total power output of 588kW and 950Nm, enough to send the SUV from 0 to 100km/h in 3.4 seconds, before maxing out at 312km/h. The SE is 0.1 seconds quicker to 100km/h.

Those who have placed orders for the Lamborghini Urus SE will probably get them before year end. 

Mini Cooper Aceman 

The last time we were acquainted with the Mini Aceman, in concept format, was at last year’s Shanghai Auto Show. It’s back — but this time in its full production attire. 

The brand intends to launch it in Mzansi as its second EV model, following the SE hatchback, by the end of the year. 

It will be available in E and SE variants, with 135kW/290Nm and 160kW/330Nm. 

The base E will accelerate silently from 0 to 100km/h in 7.9 seconds, before hitting the limiter at 160km/h, while the SE will get the same task completed in 7.1 seconds, en route to a top speed of 170km/h. 

With a 42.5kWh battery pack, Mini says the base E model will travel 310km between charges. The SE, with its 54.2kWh pack, will cover 406km before requiring a recharge.

Mini says the Aceman’s battery packs can be recharged via an AC charger with 11kW, 75kW DC for the E, and 95kW for the SE. A fast charger can boost the packs from 10% to 80% in less than 30 minutes. 

Now the wait begins. 

Mazda Arata

The Arata has to be Mazda’s main star at the show. 

It’s the brainchild of the joint venture between Mazda and Changan Automobile, and as the Japanese shift towards electrification, the Arata is a fully electric concept car.

In terms of appearance, it’s easily identifiable by its Kodo design language, which incorporates features such as slimmer and sleeker headlights, an illuminated front grille and relatively small windows.

Unfortunately, Mazda decided to keep information regarding the Arata under tight wraps but we know it will be built in China. 

Kia Sonet

The Kia Sonet maintains its popularity in the subcompact crossover SUV segment, appealing to a wide range of consumers. 

It has been on sale in South Africa since 2021 and it was in need of a major update to keep it fresh.

Initially revealed at the end of last year, the refreshed Kia Sonet made a grand entrance at the show, with redesigned front and rear fascias, as well as an interior set-up that has seen a significant overhaul, thanks to a neatly integrated 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. 

It is likely to launch in South Africa in the coming months.

New Chery Tiggo 8 

The Chery Tiggo 8 Pro may still look new after its local debut in 2022, and it is not in desperate need of a replacement, however, the Chinese firm revealed the second generation of the popular SUV at Auto China. 

There’s no detailed information about the car at this stage but it’s worth mentioning that it has a fresh, clean look, courtesy of slimmer headlights, a large front grille with chrome accents, a set of new alloys, and redesigned rear light clusters, connected by a striking LED bar.

The interior, on the other hand, looks similar to the one fitted in the Tiggo 9. The connected hyperscreens have been replaced by a large 15.6‑inch infotainment system and a floating instrument cluster. 

Chery launched the updated Tiggo 8 range in South Africa last year, so we don’t anticipate the appearance of this new model in the immediate future.

Volkswagen ID. Code

Volkswagen took the wraps off its completed new-generation SUV, dubbed ID. Code, which debuts a new design language and a new generation of technology. 

It’s the first model to showcase the brand’s new design language — as a concept, for now. 

It was jointly designed by teams in China and Europe as a model that pays homage to Chinese VW customers and comes packed with sensors for Level 4 autonomous driving. 

According to VW, it will be able to communicate with owners via exterior and interior displays.

While the concept car was specifically developed with Volkswagen’s Chinese customers in mind, we anticipate that elements of its technology and design language will be incorporated into future VW products worldwide. 

Electric Mercedes-Benz G-Class 

I might seem surreal, but Mercedes-Benz finally has an electric variant of the G-Class that is based on the regular ladder-frame concept. 

In its G580 guise, it comes fitted with a 116kWh battery pack, which feeds power to four individually controlled electric motors and enables an EV range of up to 473km. 

Its power is formidable. The electric motors generate a substantial 432kW and a mountain-moving 1,164Nm of torque. 

To make it a superb off-road capable electric SUV, it features a selectable low-range, off-road gear reduction system, independent front suspension, a rigid axle at the rear, torque vectoring, as well as innovative features such as G-Turn, G-Steering and an intelligent off-road crawl function.

GWM P-Series 500 Sport 

GWM’s local bakkie range is poised to welcome a new addition by the end of the year — the P500 Sport, which is essentially a rebadged version of the Shanhai Cannon. 

The P500 Sport is equipped with a 3.0-litre V6 turbocharged petrol engine, delivering 260kW and 500Nm of torque. Larger 18-inch, all-terrain wheels and K-Man nitrogen shock absorbers will further improve its off-road capabilities. 

These features collectively position the P500 Sport as a robust and adventure-ready vehicle.

In terms of power output, the P500 Sport appears ready to compete with established models, such as the Ford Ranger Raptor, which boasts 292kW and 583Nm. 

When it comes to SA, it will be intriguing to observe how it fares against other bakkies in the market.

EVs are more friendly to the environment than internal combustion engine-powered vehicles and they are improving in terms of range, price and technology. 

However, there is one significant challenge that remains to be addressed — the weight of these vehicles. EVs are generally heavier than cars powered by internal combustion engines (ICE) because of the large battery packs located beneath the floor. 

For instance, let’s look at the BMW 420d Gran Coupé, which has a reasonable weight of 1 705kg. In comparison, its electric counterpart, the i4 M50, weighs 2 215kg, because of its high-capacity 83.9kWh battery pack.

On that note, the GMC Hummer EV is classified as a class three medium-duty truck in the US of America, due to its massive weight of just over four tonnes. 

But why do EVs have such a weight disadvantage? After all, they are only batteries, right? 

Well, yes, but there are also other factors to take into account, such as electric motors and the additional reinforcement of the suspension system which is necessary in order for it to carry that extra weight. 

As for the battery packs, they are usually made of lithium-ion cells, which are quite heavy. 

These batteries store the electrical energy that propels the vehicle. In essence, giving a car hundreds of kilometres of driving range means slinging a huge, heavy battery to the bottom of it. 

Manufacturing giants such as Toyota and Stellantis are working around the clock to find a workable solution to reducing the weight of these batteries. 

Stellantis, in particular, has set an ambitious goal to reduce the overall weight of EV batteries by half by 2030 by developing lighter and more affordable lithium-sulphur batteries, which is a key feature of the new Volvo EX30 as well. 

According to the multinational automotive manufacturing corporation, these types of batteries make use of less exotic materials than the lithium-ion batteries of today. 

This initiative is largely driven by its investment in Lyten, a company specialising in lithium-sulphur batteries, a promising alternative to the traditional lithium-ion batteries. 

Until manufacturers find a viable way to reduce the weight of the batteries in electric cars, they will persist in their inefficiency. 

What are the penalties for a heavy EV car? 

The heavy batteries contribute to significant understeer, increased inertia and added stress on the suspension system. 

Back to the matter of efficiency. The weight of a car affects its real-world driving range. 

A heavier car necessitates more energy for movement which, in turn, affects its range, due to the increase in energy demand. This can lead to the rapid depletion of the battery and more frequent visits to the charging station.

During our testing of the BMW iX1 xDrive30, which has a rated weight of 2 010kg, and is fitted with a 64.7kWh battery pack, we were able to drive up to 380km on a single charge. 

It’s important to note that the relationship between the vehicle’s weight and its range can be seen as linear because automotive engineers usually account for battery capacity in proportion to the vehicle’s size. 

For instance, a large vehicle such as the Lotus Eletre R employs a 112kWh battery pack that feeds power to two electric motors to help carry the 2 640kg behemoth. 

EVs tend to understeer because of the weight of the battery packs and  weight is distributed differently from ICE-powered cars. 

The vehicle’s weight can have an impact on the handling characteristics, particularly cornering. 

For instance, the BMW i4 M50, which weighs 2 215 kg, demonstrated a tendency to understeer well before the perceived limit during our 2022 Speed Week event around Slaaihoek in Mpumalanga. 

Another disadvantage of EVs weighing more than their ICE counterparts is inertia, simply because the heavier the car, the longer its braking distance becomes. This means a heavy car takes longer to stop than regular cars, posing a safety risk in emergencies. 

Greater inertia can also cause more wear and tear on the car’s components, such as brakes and tyres. 

Though EVs have some of the best passive and active safety systems in place, several experts and organisations have raised concerns about the increased severity of accidents. 

A study estimates that a 450kg increase in vehicle weight has the potential to result in a 47% increase in fatality risk. 

Furthermore, the risk to vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists, is a serious concern. The additional weight that EVs carry can result in more severe injuries in a collision with these road users.

Finally, the higher weight of EVs can put additional strain on the suspension system, affecting the vehicle’s performance and longevity. 

Carmakers are working feverishly to address these concerns as EV adoption is growing at a rapid rate.  EVs represent a crucial step forward in terms of sustainability, as the world is collectively working towards a single goal — net zero emissions. 

It is essential that the aforementioned challenges are solved quickly in order to enable a smooth transition to a more sustainable mode of transport.

Just so you know, Audi has the Q5 Sportback, Porsche has the Macan and BMW has the X4 as a response to growing consumer preference.

Speaking of the Mercedes-Benz GLC coupé, it’s now entering its second generation, and as is usually the case, it is based on the regular GLC variant that was launched locally last year.

Only two variants have been made available, the GLC 220d and the GLC 300d, both of which we sampled in and around Cape Town.

The latest GLC coupé is entirely new and bigger than its predecessor. It is 31mm longer, sits 5mm higher, and boasts a longer wheelbase, plus wider track widths.

Although the design tweaks mimic those of the GLC SUV, the coupé version has added sporty flair.

The big difference is the rear end, with its sloping roofline to make up for its coupé stance. 

As standard, the GLC coupé comes with the Avantgarde trim level that fits the variants with 18-inch alloys, as well as the chrome package and the Mercedes-Benz pattern on the radiator grille.

Buyers can opt for the AMG Line packages that add 19-inch or 20-inch mixed-profile wheel-arch liners, optional easy-entry running boards and the popular Night Package.

The GLC coupé has a cosmetically enhanced rear end, which remains my favourite part. 

It consists of two-part taillights with black and dark red connecting elements, complemented by a chrome underguard.

Inside, there is the 11.9-inch portrait infotainment touchscreen system that is shared among the latest Mercedes-Benz products and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. 

Take my word for it, the overall interior quality is impressive, with plenty of storage spaces — but there is a catch.

Yes, coupé SUVs have a sporty appearance, but because of their sloping roofline, which reduces boot space and rear headroom, they are generally less practical than SUVs with regular shapes. 

To give you some perspective, the coupé boasts 545 litres of boot space versus the regular SUV’s 620 litres.

 So, if space is an important factor, the conventional variant will serve you better. 

Another potential drawback to note is the design of the rear window. Its small size and steep rake could pose visibility challenges.

GLC 300d was the first to be driven by our team at the launch. 

It is powered by a mild-hybrid 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine with 198kW and 550Nm, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and a 4Matic all-wheel-drive system. 

The 48 volt mild-hybrid system incorporated in the vehicle provides a seamless start-stop experience. 

It features an EQ Boost function that delivers an additional power injection of 17kW and 200Nm of torque. 

As we experienced at the launch, this enhancement is particularly beneficial for urban driving, with its frequent stops and starts.

On the road, the GLC 300d exhibits a high degree of refinement. It boasts great pulling power across the entire power band, resulting in an impressive driving experience. 

This performance is further enhanced by the superior ride quality, attributable to the optional air suspension fitted to our test vehicle.

The GLC 220d packs the same mild-hybrid 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine, albeit detuned to deliver 145kW and 440Nm. 

Despite the significant difference in power output compared to the 300d, the 220d executes its duties remarkably well, demonstrating the vehicle’s versatility and adaptability to cater to a range of performance requirements.

It is important to note that the transmission system in both vehicles is not the epitome of refinement. 

It’s clunky, jerky at slow speeds and very hesitant when pulling away from a stop. There is definite room for improvement in the system’s smoothness and responsiveness.

With the GLC 220d priced at R1 392 350 and the GLC 300d at R1 447 350, these coupés continue to demonstrate their proficiency within their respective segments, notwithstanding their minor shortcomings. 

While they distinguish themselves with their stylish and sporty attributes, our preference leans towards the SUV models, primarily due to their greater practicality.

It also looks at the overall position of the brand locally, customer behaviour and the vehicles that it will be launching throughout the year. 

Speaking of the latter, at this year’s event held at Kyalami, Johannesburg, last week, Toyota South Africa hinted at which vehicles the country can look forward to this year.

Land Cruiser 70 Series

Set to launch this month, the facelifted Land Cruiser 70 Series will be available in single-cab, double-cab and station wagon guises.

According to Toyota SA, the 2.8‑litre GD-6 turbo-diesel 4-cylinder engine that powers the Hilux, Fortuner and Land Cruiser Prado models will join the LC 76 station wagon and 79 single- and double-cab variants, delivering the same 150kW and 500Nm of torque.

As for the 78 Troop Carrier, it will continue to be powered by the same naturally aspirated 4.2-litre straight-6 turbocharged diesel engine that powers the 79.

The 70 Series is also expected to get a revamped cabin as well as a new infotainment system.

Land Cruiser Prado

Boasting the traditional square silhouette and based on the capable LC300 platform, Toyota is expected to launch its new Land Cruiser Prado in April. 

The model will pack a 2.8-litre GD-6 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine linked to an 8-speed automatic transmission.

The Land Cruiser Prado will also boast the brand’s modular design, which, according to Toyota, makes it easy to replace parts if they are damaged off-road.

Toyota Hilux 48V

As much as electrification seems to have caught up in the bakkie segment, Toyota plans to launch a hybridised Hilux model next month. 

The 48-volt mild hybrid system will work in tandem with the aforementioned 2.8-litre GD-6 engine and will add 12kW of power and 65Nm of torque for short bursts, courtesy of a motor generator.

While specifics remain unclear at this stage, Toyota promises an advanced stop/start system, improved acceleration, fuel efficiency and regenerative braking. 

When it launches, it will rival the Ford Ranger Wildtrak PHEV.

Hilux GR S III

The Hilux GR-S is a legend in its own right, as a product that excels both on and off the beaten track, but an even more elite model is on its way.

Slated to launch next month, the Hilux GR-S III is essentially a wide-body model, boasting a front fascia inspired by the Tundra as well as customised Dakar-bred styling cues.

With the Ranger Wildtrak X in its crosshairs, the Hilux GR-S III features wider tyres and body enhancements to give a more butch look than the standard Hilux.

The GR-inspired interior has a black theme with red accents — red seatbelts and paddle shifters, aluminium sport pedals and black suede-and-leather sports seats with silver stitching.

Like the regular GR-S variant, the wide-body is powered by a 2.8-litre GD-6 engine with 165kW and 550Nm — 15kW and 50Nm more than the standard model.

Toyota bZ4X

After its global debut in concept guise in 2021, Toyota will officially introduce its bZ4X model next year, as it pushes towards a sustainable future. 

As the first vehicle to be based on the eTNGA dedicated battery electric vehicle platform, the bZ4X is Toyota’s first battery electric vehicle.

It comes with 400km of range, courtesy of a 71.4 kilowatt-hour battery pack that feeds power to a 150 kilowatt front-axle mounted electric motor. An all-wheel drive model will probably be offered as an option.

Lexus RZ

On the premium side, Lexus will launch its new RZ next year as its first bespoke battery electric vehicle, which will use the same eTNGA platform. The RZ will be offered exclusively with dual-motor all-wheel drive, thanks to a 150kW motor on the front axle and an 80kW motor at the rear for a combined power output of 230kW and 435Nm. 

It will cruise silently for up to 450km between charges. 

Performance? Well, it’s no slouch and will go briskly from 0 to 100km/h in 5.6 seconds, before maxing out at 160km/h. 

Sales forecast

The State of the Motor Industry also provided the perfect platform for president and CEO Andrew Kirby to give his sales forecast for the year.

The brand anticipates 540 000 total sales — a significant uptick over last year’s 532 098 sales. 

The sales are predicted to consist of 355 871 passenger vehicles, 152 827 light commercial vehicles and 31 301 other products.

Audi 

Audi South Africa is expected to launch a range of vehicles this year. They include the refreshed A3, S3, Q7, Q8 and Q8 E-tron models, probably in the final quarter of the year. 

In addition, we can expect the Black Edition variants of the A3, S3, A5, S5, Q2, Q3, Q5 and SQ5. 

The Q2, out in the third quarter, is earmarked to get infotainment upgrades and a TDI engine.

BMW 

After making its global debut early last year, the eighth generation of the BMW 5 Series is expected to arrive on local dealership floors in the next few months. The new X2 is set to arrive a few months after the launch of the 5.

Citroen

On the Citroen side, South Africans can look forward to the all-new C3 Aircross launching in the second quarter of the year, while in the third quarter, the French manufacturer is looking to expand its C3 range as it aims to appeal to a wider spectrum of customers.

Fiat 

Fiat SA is expected to introduce its all-new Fiat 500 toward the end of the year. 

The model is slated to have exciting fresh features and improvements over the outgoing model, including a retro-modern appeal.

Ford 

Ford looks set to have a busy year ahead as it transitions to electronically assisted powertrain options. 

The brand will launch its Ranger Wildtrak plug-in hybrid model this year. It will pack a 2.3-litre EcoBoost turbocharged petrol engine that works in tandem with an electric motor as well as have a rechargeable battery, good for a 45km EV range.

The manufacturer also plans to introduce the newest generation of the Tourneo and Transit. The former is a seven-seater family van and the latter a business support vehicle. 

Other new vehicles we can look forward to include the Territory mid-size SUV, the Ranger Platinum, the Ranger Tremor and the Mustang GT Fastback.

GWM 

Expected to launch this year, the Chinese carmaker GWM plans to introduce the Tank 300 and Tank 500 off-road-capable SUVs, both of which have  impressive features for off-road fun. 

The brand will also bring out the P-Series hybrid model, which will go head-to-head with the likes of the Ford Ranger Wildtrak PHEV.

Honda 

At the time of writing, Honda SA couldn’t confirm information on the specific models it is launching locally this year. We’ll keep our eyes on the wires, though.

Hyundai 

Hyundai SA anticipates launching the updated i20 and Tucson this year, as well as the all-new Santa Fe SUV in the second half of the year.

Isuzu 

Isuzu South Africa plans to introduce its stylish D-Max X-Rider variant, with vast improvements, which look set to make it a popular model in the range. 

Jeep 

Expected to launch in the second quarter of the year are the new Jeep Wrangler and the refreshed Gladiator models. While the current models are impressive, the new ones promise to bring something even better to the table.

Kia 

Kia is expected to bring out several updated varieties of its existing model range. As a starter, the Korean marque will introduce its refreshed Picanto, Seltos and Sorentos. 

However, Kia SA doesn’t make mention of exactly when they are planning to bring out these vehicles locally.

Mazda

Mazda is slated to introduce the updated CX-5 and CX-3 models, as well as the Takumi version of the CX-60, which is due to make its debut in Mzansi next month.

Mercedes-Benz 

We can expect the German auto manufacturer to bring out a plethora of new and refreshed vehicles throughout the year.

These include the GLC Coupé, its AMG counterparts, the C63 S E Performance, GT S E Performance 4-door, GT S E Performance Coupé and the new E-Class variants.

As for the refreshed models, we can look forward to the face-lifted GLE SUV and Coupé, including their formidable AMG counterparts, the GLA, GLB and GLS. 

The local arm of the carmaker says it’s also hoping to launch the new G-Class this year.

Mini 

It seems like a rather relaxed year for the folks at Mini. The brand is due to bring out the new and bigger Countryman, as well as the all-new Mini hatch range, including the SE JCW, in the second quarter of the year.

Opel 

The folks at Opel have an eventful year ahead and South Africans can look forward to the makeover of the Corsa, which is earmarked to launch locally in the next couple of months. 

The model promises to be an improvement on the old one as it brings with it a host of advancements as well as a hybridised unit, if things go according to plan.

Peugeot

Towards the middle of the year, Peugeot is slated to introduce its updated 2008 compact SUV, which will be sold in three variants: Active, Allure and GT. 

The updated Peugeot 2008 is the second vehicle after the 508 to have the brand’s distinctive lighting design, which consists of three vertical light claws incorporated into the bumper inserts.

Porsche

German carmaker Porsche will introduce the new Panamera in the first quarter of the year. 

The local range will include the traditional Panamera, the all-wheel-drive Panamera 4 and the eco-friendly Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid.

The latter will introduce the brand’s new Turbo badging and add its Active Ride Suspension.

Renault

While last year was somewhat relaxed for Renault SA, this year promises to be a busy one for the local arm of the Boulogne-Billancourt-based carmaker. 

In the second quarter of the year, the brand will introduce the all-new Triber and Kiger models.

Despite its late arrival to the local market in 2022, Renault is set to give the Clio supermini and Captur significant refreshes. The brand will probably launch its new Duster, starting with the 4×4 version, towards the end of the year.

Other products the manufacturer is likely to launch include the Trafic, Arkana and Kangoo. 

When asked about the Oroch, Renault said it didn’t have plans to launch the pickup here, due to “unfavourable economic market factors”, in particular the drop in the exchange rate.

Subaru

Subaru says that it will not launch any new products because its portfolio is relatively new.  We will have to wait for next year for additions to the range.

Suzuki Auto 

Suzuki Auto SA couldn’t confirm any new products for this year at the time of writing.

Toyota 

While we expect the Toyota Group to launch a range of new products locally in the coming year, the manufacturer confirmed that it would announce its plans at its 2024 State of the Motor Industry event, details for which are TBC.

Volvo 

As it pushes towards a sustainable future, the Swedish carmaker will launch its new EX30 and EX90 models this year. 

These will form part of the brand’s ambitious strategy, which aims for fully electric vehicles to make up half of its sales by next year.

The truth is that plug-in hybrids and hybrid vehicles seem to work, especially in South Africa, where electric vehicles (EVs) cost more than Internal Combustion Engine powered vehicles and the electricity situation is questionable at best.

In South Africa, EVs have tariffs of 25% when being shipped into the country from another market, compared to the 18% paid on imported internal combustion engine vehicles. This disparity in import tax is a significant contributor to the higher costs of EVs in South Africa. If you’re curious, the cheapest electric car in South Africa is the GWM Ora, which carries a price tag of R686,950. Imagine a world where the government subsidises EVs, making them more accessible to the average consumer. The dream of zero driving emissions would inch ever closer to reality.

The IATF Auto Forum brought this issue into sharp focus, and the panellists emphasised the need for local production and support to accelerate the transition to EVs. This brings us to Kemet Automotive, which is the first EV carmaker with African origins that seeks to transform the landscape of the vehicle industry. The visionaries behind the groundbreaking initiative are Rui Mendes Da Silva and Nissi Ogulu, and the marque is based in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

That said, we sat down with Nissi Ogulu, co-chief executive and co-founder of Kemet Automotive, whose experience can be traced back to 2021, when she was one of the Jaguar Land Rover engineering team members who designed and put together the outstanding fifth-generation Range Rover model.

As we settled into the rhythm of our conversation, Ogulu’s passion for electric vehicles was palpable. She spoke of Kemet Automotive not just as a business but as a mission to bring sustainable, affordable electric mobility to Africa and the world.

Brand expansion 

While the brand is still in its inception stages, it has plans to expand to various markets across Africa that will operate on different levels and, according to Ogulu, there are plans to establish manufacturing plants in Senegal and Ghana. The brand aims to have more plants as the demand for Kemet Automotive EVs continues to grow.

“We plan to start with only one plant; who knows what the future looks like 10 years from now? We can’t limit ourselves, especially as the demand for our EVs grows. The company is also growing, and we plan to become a company that exists in as many African countries as possible.”

Because Kemet is manufacturing its electric vehicles locally, it is eliminating the hefty import taxes that often inflate the prices of electric vehicles. These taxes have long kept electric vehicles out of reach for many potential customers. But Kemet aims to make EVs accessible to a wider range of customers while creating jobs, boosting the African economy, and fostering a sense of pride in African innovation.

Kemet models

Although they may not have production models on the road just yet, their vision is already taking shape in the form of six concept vehicles, each one a testament to their commitment to sustainable mobility and African creativity. First, there’s the Gezo, a futuristic tricycle that promises to redefine urban mobility. Then there’s the Nandi, a compact SUV designed for the modern urbanite, and the Mansa, a premium SUV that combines indulgence with sustainability. For those needing speed, there’s an exclusive GT, and for the public transportation sector, Kemet has designed a large shuttle bus.

When asked about the possibility of expanding to the South African market, Ogulu says the brand is looking at expanding to other African countries, so it can’t rule out the idea of bringing its cars to the local market.

Charging infrastructure and range

When it comes to charging infrastructure across Africa, Kemet Automotive says it plans to create many partnerships with specialists, small and medium enterprises, and other electric car manufacturers.

“We are working on creating as many alliances as we can. We already have traction in that space, and we have established two partnerships with EB Manufacturing in the United States, so we really redefined the design going into partnerships, and the distribution pipeline and manufacturing pipeline are already in place. So it’s just about rolling it out,” said Ogulu.

As for their first car, slated to launch in the first quarter of 2027, Kemet is setting the bar high. The EV maker targets a range of up to 500km on a single charge, putting it in the same league as the BMW iX M60 and Mercedes-Benz EQS 450+. And while the brand remains tight-lipped about the battery capacity, they said it will take roughly an hour and a half to recharge the pack from empty to 100% when using what Kemet calls a supercharger.

The most exciting part is the promise of affordability. With a price tag that’s more accessible, Kemet’s model could be the spark that ignites the electric revolution in Africa.

Affordability 

Kemet Automotive says it has plans to have a base price of $25,000, which translates to roughly R470,897 at the current exchange rate, and this, if we look at the current EV market, will be the most affordable electric car ever to grace South African roads.

“Besides our cars being affordable, we do want to create a product that is of high quality and robust to be able to accommodate our African terrain. We have considered affordability. It is one of our pillars. It’s one of our targets, and we will ensure that the African market can purchase our vehicles.”Regarding the possibility of a bakkie, especially for the local market, Ogulu said it remains a possibility, and if that reaches production stages, it will rival the likes of the upcoming JAC T9.

The automotive industry recorded 45 075 new vehicle sales during the month. When compared to the 49 986 sales registered during November last year, the figure represented a decline of 9.8%, despite the best marketing efforts of the reporting brands.

The drop-off in sales can be attributed to the logistical problems at the country’s ports and across the freight rail network, as well as the return of stage six load-shedding. 

According to National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa chief executive Mikel Mabasa, the challenges will have a devastating domino impact on the entire automotive value chain.

“All new vehicle market segments declined, with a boost coming from the export side. The November 2023 vehicle market declined by 9.8% and recorded 45 075 registrations compared to the 49 986 vehicle registrations recorded in November 2022,” confirmed Mabasa.

Speaking about new vehicle sales, Toyota South Africa continued to top the charts in most segments, selling a total of 6 551 passenger cars, 5 042 light commercial vehicles as well as 231 medium commercial vehicles last month.

Slotting into second position in the passenger car segment was the VW Group with 4 945 units. Suzuki Auto SA claimed third position with 4 201 units moved from showroom floors.

Behind Toyota in the light commercial category is Ford SA with 2 349 units and Nissan SA in third  place with 1 554 units. 

The folks at Isuzu SA finished second in the medium commercial fold with 153 units, while Mercedes-Benz SA slotted in the third position with 104 sales last month.

In October, the automobile industry as a whole witnessed a dynamic sales performance, with the Toyota Group taking the lead, selling a total of 11 891 vehicles from all segments. 

Not far behind, the VW Group made a significant impact with 5 513 vehicles sold. 

Suzuki also made its mark, selling 4 368 vehicles. Meanwhile, Ford SA and Nissan ended the month with 2 910 and 2 779 vehicles sold, respectively.

Toyota’s resilience was for the most part driven by the marque’s popular models such as the Hilux bakkie (3 073 units), Corolla Cross (1 766 units), Hiace (1 549 units) and Starlet (1 176 units).

Last month’s aggregate export sales continued in line with general industry expectations and increased by 25.5% to 41 660 units, compared to the 33 207 that were reported in November last year. 

Light commercial vehicle exports, which increased by an impressive 72% to 16 066 units, supported the export market growth.

Each of these manufacturers is making great strides in their sales efforts, contributing to some optimism in the market.

After a number of attempts, Diesel succeeded and called his invention a “compression-ignition engine”. It could use almost anything as fuel and his prototypes ran on peanut or vegetable oil. Strange, but true.

However, by 1897, he had refined his invention and produced a commercially successful diesel engine, which was initially intended to replace the stationary steam engines that powered factories and mills. 

They were more efficient, and had higher torque ratings, than steam engines, which made them suitable for the purpose.

In 1908, a utility truck became the first wheel-driven vehicle to employ a diesel engine and the Citroen Company produced the first diesel car, dubbed the Rosalie, in 1933. 

However, it didn’t reach the production stage due to restrictions imposed on the diesel power plant and it was only used for testing and racing purposes. 

A few years later, in 1936, Mercedes-Benz produced the 260D, regarded as the first passenger car to sport a diesel engine.

Over the past 87 years, the evolution of diesel has been nothing but remarkable, with manufacturers from all four corners of the globe working hard to harness and refine the fuel to make it a robust and efficient powerhouse, despite criticism over its environmental impact.

The truth of the matter is that the journey of diesel technology doesn’t end here — it’s still being developed. 

We take a look at the three grades of diesel available in South Africa —  10ppm, 50ppm and 500ppm. 

But before we outline the differences, it’s best to understand what “ppm” means. It’s the acronym for “parts per million”, which is the unit used to measure the sulphur in diesel fuel. 

For instance, diesel with emissions of 50ppm is considered cleaner than that with 500ppm, and since most diesel engines are sensitive to sulphur, measuring it is essential.  

Now you wonder why it’s such an important aspect of diesel production. Well, the adverse effects of sulphur emissions include sulphur dioxide release, acid rain, less-than-ideal air quality and visibility, as well as respiratory illnesses.

10ppm diesel

As its name suggests, 10ppm diesel contains 10 parts per million of sulphur. It’s regarded as cleaner than other diesel fuels simply because there are fewer traces of sulphur, meaning lower emissions, which is better for the environment.

It is normally priced slightly higher than the other types of diesel fuel, due to a more advanced refining process and lower sulphur content.

The 10ppm is generally better for vehicles as it prevents the accumulation of sulphur deposits in the engine, and the exhaust after-treatment system, for cleaner and more efficient combustion.

Other benefits include improved efficiency and increased longevity of engine components. 

It’s recommended to always check with the vehicle manufacturer about which grade of diesel is suitable for your vehicle. 

However, most modern diesel engines have been designed to run efficiently on ultra-low-sulphur diesel (ULSD), while the classics might require additives or modifications to prevent compatibility issues.

50ppm diesel  

While it is not as clean as its 10ppm counterpart, 50ppm is the most commonly used grade in South Africa for cars and trucks and accounts for most local diesel consumption. 

This grade has allowed the introduction of emissions control technologies in vehicles, such as particulate filters and selective catalytic converters, to reduce emissions.

The 50ppm diesel is often cheaper than 10ppm and slightly more expensive than 500ppm.

It can be used in most modern vehicles but a few older diesel engines might require adjustments or modifications to run on ULSD.

500ppm diesel  

Unlike the 10ppm and 50ppm grades of diesel, 500ppm isn’t regarded as low-sulphur because it contains 500 parts per million. 

The 500ppm is, however, recommended for most heavy utility vehicles, such as trucks, and machinery. Their engines can function on less refined diesel and are designed to handle the higher sulphur content as well as the lower combustion quality of 500ppm diesel.

The benefits of using 500ppm diesel are mainly related to its lower price and wider availability. 

However, its drawbacks, such as lower fuel efficiency, poorer performance, higher emissions and higher maintenance costs, outweigh these advantages.

Diesel has come a long way to where it is today, evolving and diversifying to power a wide range of vehicles and machinery across many industries.

South African vehicle owners can choose among the three grades of diesel, each with its own characteristics and environmental effects. 

At the end of the day, it’s important to understand what your vehicle is compatible with and what its ppm designation means in order to make an informed decision.

The truth of the matter, though, is that diesel isn’t the cleanest fuel and its heart beats strongest in the commercial fold, where it powers the trucks that transport goods throughout the world. 

But times are changing as electrification gains traction.

Until electric commercial propulsion becomes widely accessible, diesel stands firm and continues to play a powerful role in the commercial sector.

The Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF), launched in 2018, is a biennial event that serves as a conduit for exchanging trade, investment and market information. This fair is a prime example of platforms that enable buyers, vendors, investors and country representatives to meet, discuss and conclude business agreements.  

This year, the IATF took place in the Egyptian capital Cairo, where a wide range of participants, from state officials, continental players in multiple sectors and business exhibitors to entrepreneurs, investors, buyers, trade visitors and the media were in attendance 

With more than 35 000 visitors, the fair attracted 75 African countries and 1 600 business exhibitors from across the continent. 

Sessions were held over a seven-day programme, including the automotive forum where subjects such as the powertrain evolution in Africa; the automotive sector under the AfCFTA (African Continental Free Trade Area); driving demand; and used and grey vehicle imports were discussed.  

Speaking of the powertrain evolution in Africa, the entire world is going electric as vehicle manufacturers push towards the common goal  of zero emissions and one issue  that came up time and again during the forum was the readiness of the continent for electric vehicles. 

The truth of the matter is that African countries need to overcome a host of problems before they can move to electric vehicles

For South Africa, at least, hybrids are a better option for now, due to their ability to run on combustion engines and electric motors. 

Experts in the automotive industry discussed the issue of electric vehicles at the forum and some recommendations were made. According to Volkswagen SA managing director and African Association of Automotive Manufacturers(AAAM) president, Martina Biene, battery electric vehicles are not a silver bullet, and each segment needs to be evaluated separately. 

Biene said that they are a great fit for passenger cars and bikes, even though they may not be suitable for commercial vehicles. 

She emphasised the importance of support for accelerating the transition to electric vehicles, including financing, local production and incentives for widespread adoption.

Another issue regarding electric vehicles in Africa is how the continent is way behind Europe when it comes to emission levels. 

For example, many African countries are still operating under standards equivalent to the Euro 2 standard or lower, which means these cars contribute more to air pollution and climate change compared to those that are made according to more modern and stringent standards in other parts of the world. 

The South African car market is still operating on the Euro 2 standard, which makes it difficult for manufacturers such as Volkswagen to introduce hybrid vehicles because the system isn’t designed to run on contaminated fuel.

About 80% of our energy comes from coal and that means we contribute almost 20% towards an emission-free future, so the transition towards a sustainable future must be exercised soon by keeping pace with what we have such as hydro, wind, solar and nuclear power. 

By 2027, the African automotive industry is expected to grow by almost 40% to reach $42.06 billion under the AfCFTA agreement. To support this growth, extensive consultations have been held between the AfCFTA secretariat, Afreximbank and the African Association of Automotive Manufacturers (AAAM) to strategise the manufacturing of vehicles in Africa. 

Afreximbank has committed a $1 billion facility to support the initiative and funding is available for any investor that seeks to pursue local content development in the automotive value chain. 

The panellists discussed a multi-faceted approach to driving demand in Africa, including investing in renewable sources of energy. 

This investment could stimulate the use of electric vehicles while stabilising inconsistent power systems.

Another factor pushing towards electric vehicle adoption is the possibility of government subsidies. 

In South Africa, the GWM Ora is considered the most affordable electric car, with a price tag of R686 950.

African countries can also look at initiating climate programmes, local production of electric cars and emission reduction targets which will speed up the phasing out of internal-combustion engine powered cars. 

The Egyptian government has plans to start building electric vehicles in the country in the coming years, which should help to bring down the price on the continent. 

At the same time, African countries can reduce traffic congestion and lower pollution by implementing ride-sharing platforms. 

While used and grey imports might  offer affordability, they present a challenge to local automotive sectors as they may not adhere to the same safety and emissions standards that govern domestic production. 

Grey imports can also result in financial losses for governments due to the underpayment of import-related taxes and VAT. 

Therefore, the AAAM is urging public regulators to step in and protect African markets from the surge of illegally imported used vehicles, which, in turn, will help safeguard the environment and road users.

The AfCFTA expects to attract investors from around the world and boost trade by allowing goods to flow freely through African countries, providing better jobs, and reducing poverty. 

The IATF was humming with deals and partnerships being formed and we believe this dream is becoming a reality.