These were the five biggest stories in South Africa’s transport industry this week.
Major car tracking company in hot water in South Africa
Car tracking company Cartrack billed roughly 500 of its customers in South Africa twice over the Easter weekend.
The issue was highlighted by disgruntled customers complaining about the double debit online, with one individual paying R539 twice in three days.
Cartrack said it is in the process of contacting affected customers and training employees on what to do if the scenario happens again in the future.
South Africa getting new driver’s licence cards this April
Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga has confirmed that her department has nearly procured the new driver’s licence printing machine needed for the country’s new licence cards.
The first new cards are scheduled to be produced before the end of April – roughly a month after they were expected to be introduced.
However, it may be difficult for motorists to get their hands on an upgraded licence as the government is currently facing a critical shortage of the forms needed to issue these documents.
Tender document showing South Africa’s new licence card
E-tolls are officially dead – What happens now
Gauteng’s infamous e-tolls have finally come to an end, having been shut down at midnight on April 11, 2024.
The main issue going forward will be repaying the R43-billion debt accumulated by the failed project, which taxpayers will be on the hook for.
E-tag users can continue to pay for conventional tolls with their tags, but new users should be aware that the account they open may be used to pay for any outstanding e-toll fees.
First units of new Ford Territory officially land in South Africa
The first units of the new Ford Territory have arrived in South Africa and should appear in dealerships before the end of the month.
The Territory is the brand’s new midsize SUV and will retail for a minimum of R576,000.
It is available in three specifications, all of which use the same 1.8-litre turbo engine.
China’s BYD looking to launch 2 new cars in South Africa
Chinese carmaker Build Your Dreams (BYD) is planning to expand its line-up in South Africa with two new models.
Two recent trademark filings suggest the company wants to introduce the King and Shark in our market, though this is yet to be confirmed.
The King is a hybrid sedan, while the Shark is an electric double-cab bakkie.
Join the discussion