VW halts production at local factory, Audi indicates dealer closures, and a South African-made bakkie sets a new world record

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

VW stops production at South African factory

VW has announced that it is halting production at its Kariega factory from 14 April until 12 May to install new facilities.

The plant, located in the Eastern Cape, is responsible for the creation of the Polo and Polo Vivo hatchbacks, and a third model is set to join this list over the next few years.

The factory upgrades are being completed in preparation for a new compact SUV that will enter production in 2027.

The yet-to-be-named new VW will compete in South Africa’s entry-level market.

Audi indicates dealer closures for South Africa

Audi recently published a press statement announcing changes to its business model in response to “market challenges.”

Among a host of vague statements, the automaker said that “in cases where adjustments have been or will be made to specific areas within the retail network, customers will be advised proactively and provided suitable alternatives.”

“All Audi customers affected by the current changes have been contacted and informed of their alternatives as all warranty, service, and maintenance policies remain fully intact.”

TopAuto reached out to Audi to ask whether this referred to potential dealership closures, which the company neither confirmed nor denied.

South African-made bakkie sets a new world record

Nissan had set a new world record with its latest bakkie – the Navara Warrior.

The Navara, which is built at the company’s factory in Pretoria, recently set out to complete the world’s longest continuous off-road journey with a small convoy of four vehicles.

The completed trek was 1,480km long and has been officially certified by the Guinness Book of World Records.

Car theft warning for this group of people in South Africa

The Insurance Crime Bureau (ICB) has warned of a drastic spike in vehicle thefts targeting elderly female shoppers.

The suspects typically operate in groups comprised of both men and women, who attempt to distract their chosen victim while another steals their keys from their exposed handbags.

The ICB has urged the public to raise awareness on the matter by informing elderly relatives or acquaintances of the new tactic.

New South African car brand launched – Details

South Africa has a new local car brand known as EVerione.

EVerione is a joint venture between Megamillion Group and JSW MG Motor India focused on importing, assembling, and distributing select electric vehicles (EV) in Sub-Saharan Africa.

The company plans to create a battery factory in South Africa, taking advantage of local tax deductions to produce EVs that are far more affordable than imported ones.