These were the five biggest stories in South Africa’s automotive industry this week.
Official South African petrol price for October
South Africa saw a big jump in fuel prices this week, with diesel experiencing a particularly large spike.
Both types of fuel are now sitting above the R25-a-litre mark, something which has not been seen since prices reached a record high in the middle of 2022.
This trend is expected to continue for the rest of the year, owing to international oil demand and the rand/US dollar exchange rate.
High-speed train between Gauteng and Limpopo in the works
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi announced this week that the province is working on a plan for a new high-speed rail line to Limpopo.
The new line will run from Johannesburg to Polokwane, and is expected to measure 240km upon its completion.
The stated intention is to connect the country’s biggest financial hub to one of its most rural provinces as part of an effort to stimulate economic growth.
The end of e-tolls in South Africa – 1 year later
It has been a year since South Africa’s finance minister announced that Gauteng’s e-tolls would be shut down, yet they continue to toll road users to this day.
The Organization Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) has condemned the lack of progress on the matter, calling it “a broken promise to South African motorists.”
The national and provincial governments have cited several issues as the reason for the delay, including the allocation of outstanding debts and funds, but has not yet given any concrete answer as to when the gantries will be repurposed or shut down.
New Toyota Crown – Official South African pricing revealed
After months of delays, the local pricing for the new Toyota Crown has finally been revealed.
Originally scheduled to go on sale in the first quarter of 2023, the new crossover’s sticker is now confirmed to start at R918,900.
This is the first time the Crown nameplate has appeared in South Africa, boasting a hybrid powertrain and several luxury additions.
Next-generation Suzuki Swift – New design and features revealed
Suzuki has confirmed that its line-up for the 2023 Japan Mobility Show will include the highly-anticipated next-gen Swift.
The Swift is one of the most popular cars in South Africa, regularly selling over 1,000 units per month.
Ahead of its reveal, the automaker confirmed that the hatchback will feature a fresh look and a host of advanced new technology, as shown in the teaser image of the Swift Concept.
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