These were the five biggest stories in South Africa’s transport industry this week.
Bad news for petrol prices in South Africa
South African have been warned that petrol prices could spike in the near future owing to the conflict in the Middle East.
The recent escalation of tensions between Israel and Iran has raised concerns that the entire region could soon be enveloped in conflict, greatly affecting global oil production.
Experts are concerned that a barrel of oil could double in price, leading to much steeper costs at the pump.
South Africa is getting a new budget airline
South Africa is getting a new budget airline that will provide cheaper direct flights to the UK.
Norse Atlantic Airways is opening a route between Cape Town International Airport and London Gatwick Airport, with flights occurring three times a week.
The air service offers two ticket classes – Economy and Premium – which have three tiers each with different benefits.
New Kia hatchback and bakkie for South Africa
Kia has launched the updated Picanto in South Africa at a starting price of R260,995.
The Korean carmaker has also released new information about the Tasman bakkie, which is all but confirmed for a local release.
The first official images have been revealed, showing the double-cab’s body with a colourful press camouflage.
New Chinese cars coming to South Africa
South Africa is getting several new Chinese cars, starting with three models from GAC Motor.
LDV also confirmed that it will be bringing another three vehicles here in addition to the T60 bakkie arriving in May.
Foton then announced its intention to re-launch locally with a new double cab and a selection of commercial vehicles.
Warning over imported tyres in South Africa
South Africans have been warned about the use of cheap imported tyres, which may not provide the same level of safety and after-sale support as local ones.
More than 50% of the tyres in local circulation are now foreign-made, usually from China, and this figure is expected to reach 70% in the next five years.
Imported tyres are not tailored for our road conditions resulting in lower mileages, and customers often do not have a company representative to contact when these tyres are damaged or have factory defects.
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