These were the five biggest stories in South Africa’s automotive industry this week.
BYD Atto 3 launched in South Africa
The Chinese carmaker BYD has launched its first model in South Africa – the fully-electric BYD Atto 3.
The crossover is available in two versions at a starting price of R768,000 – makes it one of the cheapest electric cars in the country alongside the recently-announced Volvo EX30.
Diesel price expected to rise
The latest data published by the Central Energy Fund (CEF) suggests that diesel prices will see a significant jump in July.
The predictions are based on a global increase in demand for diesel following a resurgence in economic activity.
Petrol, on the other hand, may receive an appreciable drop in cost, which is partly attributed to an improved dollar/rand exchange rate.
Big changes at WeBuyCars
WeBuyCars, the pre-owned vehicle trading platform, is currently rolling out an expansive sustainability project across its 15 different showrooms around the country.
The project includes the widespread adoption of solar panels and energy-saving technology, which will minimize the company’s operating costs while reducing its carbon footprint.
One of the locations affected is the Dome, which is the single largest used car dealership on the continent.
New Mahindra bakkie coming to South Africa
Mahindra is bringing a new bakkie to South Africa – the Pik Up Karoo Dew.
The Dew is the fourth model in the exclusive Karoo series joining the ranks of the Dawn, Dusk, and Storm which launched last year.
Like the other variants, the Dew will have a unique colour scheme and several extra fitments intended to make it shine offroad.
Most problematic car brands
The J.D. Power Initial Quality Survey recently announced its findings on the most problematic car brands on the road today, based on the number of faults reported by their owners.
The study looked at more than 33 different automakers and compiled the data from users into a graph tracking the number of issues per 100 vehicles.
The results are based on a 223-question survey that focuses on nine vehicle categories – infotainment, features, controls and displays, exterior, driving assistance, interior, powertrain, seats, driving experience, and climate.
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