5 important things that happened in South Africa’s car industry this week

These were the five biggest stories in South Africa’s transport industry this week.

New VW Amarok put on ice for South Africa

The petrol version of the VW Amarok has been put on hold for South Africa.

The alternate powertrain was initially set to launch in the second half of 2024, however, the automaker has shelved this plan for the time being, saying its current engine selection is sufficient for our market.

Alarm bells over e-toll revenue jumping from R1.1 billion to R11.8 billion overnight

The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse has flagged a sudden and unexpected change in accounting practices by the South African National Roads Agency (Sanral).

Sanral recently changed its financial reporting standards from the International Financial Reporting Standards to the Generally Recognised Accounting Practices.

In doing so, the agency’s reported e-toll revenue for the past two years has gone up more than ten-fold, from R1.1 billion to R11.8 billion.

This 1,400km Chery is coming to South Africa

Chery is expanding its local selection with the new Tiggo 9, which is in the pipeline for a domestic introduction in mid-2025.

The flagship Tiggo features a plug-in hybrid powertrain that claims to have a range of over 1,400km.

Chery is also looking to introduce a brand-new double cab bakkie that will take on the industry’s favourites.

New Porsche 911 GT3 – South African pricing unveiled

Porsche has announced the South African pricing for the new 911 GT3, which will be made available to order before the end of the year.

The sports car will start at R4,709,000 and is available in both standard and Touring guise.

The updated 911 has been made even lighter at just 1,420kg, further enhancing its sporty characteristics.

South Africa hosting major international race for the first time in 2025

The World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC) is coming to South Africa for the very first time in May 2025.

This is the first time that the W2RC will take place in two African countries, as Morocco is set to host the finale in October.

The race calendar also includes Saudi Arabia, Abu Dhabi, and Portugal.