China’s Carmakers Target South Africa with New EVs and Pickups in Rivalry with Global Giants
Synopsis
Changan, Dongfeng and BAIC unveiled new electric and hybrid models at Johannesburg’s WesBank Festival of Motoring, while Geely and Chery entered the pickup market with electric and conventional-fuel models, taking on established players Toyota, Ford and Isuzu.
Chinese automakers unveiled a wave of electric, hybrid and range-extended vehicles at South Africa’s biggest auto show, intensifying competition in a market where established manufacturers have long dominated and demand for electrified vehicles is gaining momentum.
Changan and its South African partner Jameel Motors introduced the Deepal S05 range-extended electric vehicle and the Changan Uni-S hybrid SUV.
Dongfeng distributor E Auto Motor launched the Forthing Friday range-extended crossover and battery-electric model while also introducing Chinese brand Kaiyi.
BAIC showcased its premium new-energy brand ARCFOX, with the T1 compact electric SUV scheduled to launch in October. Meanwhile, Geely displayed its all-electric Riddara pickup while Chery entered a segment traditionally dominated by Toyota, Ford and Isuzu.
Chinese Brands Gain Ground
The new launches underline the rapid expansion of Chinese automakers in South Africa where competitive pricing and increasingly diverse model ranges have helped them gain market share.
WesBank CEO Robert Gwerengwe said Chinese vehicles accounted for about 40% of new vehicles financed by the lender last month, compared with just 0.01% in 2016.
Electric vehicles still represent a relatively small portion of South African vehicle sales but manufacturers are increasingly targeting consumers with more affordable electrified options alongside premium models.
Dongfeng South Africa said it plans to expand its local portfolio significantly. E Auto Motor National Sales Manager JP Geldenhuys said the company aims to offer approximately 14 vehicle models by the first quarter of 2027, up from three currently.
New-Energy Push Accelerates
Other Chinese brands are also preparing for a broader shift toward electrification. Chery-owned LEPAS plans to add battery-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles to its range while Omoda & Jaecoo is targeting a 40% new-energy vehicle mix by the end of 2027, compared with 19% currently.
The push extends beyond passenger cars. LDV and Jiangling Motors expanded their pickup ranges with conventional fuel models while Geely’s Riddara is bringing an all-electric option to a segment where Toyota, Ford and Isuzu remain major players.
BAIC also plans to expand its new-energy vehicle range beyond ARCFOX and eventually enter South Africa’s pickup market.
The growing number of launches suggests Chinese manufacturers are positioning themselves not only as affordable alternatives but as increasingly significant players in South Africa’s transition toward electrified transport.
Source: Reuters
Vishal is an experienced Editor at Inspirepreneur Magazine with key interests in artificial intelligence, eCommerce, entrepreneurship, lifestyle and startup sector. Prior to joining Inspirepreneur, he was a Content Writer cum Correspondent at Siliconindia Magazine, where he worked on Company Profiles, Cover Stories, Executive Profiles, Feature Articles and Thought Leadership content.
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