These were the five biggest stories in South Africa’s automotive industry this week.
New hijacking trend emerges in South Africa’s biggest province
The Hawks Priority Crime Investigation unit has issued a warning regarding a new hijacking syndicate operating in the Northern Cape.
The criminals are running two main operations, one of which has hijackers pose as hitchhikers only to rob motorists as soon as they stop to offer help.
The second method preys upon hitchhikers themselves, as the criminals will pose as a driver offering a lift only to rob them once the victim enters the vehicle.
New Ford Ranger Tremor – South African specifications announced
Ford has announced the equipment list planned for the upcoming Ranger Tremor, which is expected to launch in the first half of 2024.
The Tremor is a new model in the bakkie line-up based on the mid-range XLT, offering additional features akin to the recently introduced Wildtrak X.
A few of the key upgrades on the 4×4 include special shocks, unique alloy rims with all-terrain tyres, and water-resistant vinyl interior upholstery.
Top Gear hosts first-ever Car Awards for South Africa
Top Gear South Africa recently hosted its first Award Series in South Africa, handing out 24 accolades in the process.
The event included eight new categories unique to the South African context, as well as industry-related awards for various individuals and manufacturers in the business.
There were 17 different awards for cars, including titles like bakkie and hot hatch of the year, and a reader’s choice award decided by public voting.
Return of South Africa’s long-distance trains struck by disaster
The long-awaited return of South Africa’s long-distance trains was met with a disappointing start when the service had to complete one of its first journeys by bus.
Running from Johannesburg to Cape Town, the Shosholoza Meyl train had to stop when it was discovered that the overhead cables between Kaalfontein and Muldersvlei had been stolen.
Passengers were then forced to complete the remaining 70km stretch by bus, and the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) warned that copper wire theft is a pressing challenge that continues to hamper its services.
2 plug-in hybrid Chery SUVs confirmed for South Africa – What you need to know
Chery has confirmed that it has two new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models planned for South Africa in 2024.
The two new vehicles are electrified versions of the Tiggo 7 Pro and Tiggo 8 Pro already on sale locally, which can provide close to 1,000km on a single combined petrol and battery run.
The Chinese carmaker has not provided too many details as of yet, but the Tiggo 8 Pro PHEV that is already on sale in the Philippines suggests motorists here can expect a 1.5-litre, turbo-petrol engine working in tandem with two electric motors and a 19.27kWh battery.
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