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.

Astron Energy, BP, and Engen announce big plans for South Africa

Three major fuel chains, Astron Energy, BP and Engen, have announced big plans for South Africa.

This comes following the recent announcement that their rival Shell is leaving the country.

One standout initiative in Astron Energy’s pipeline involves a greater emphasis on locally-produced petrol, reducing the nation’s reliance on imported oil.

Red flags for Audi, BMW, and Mercedes in South Africa

Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz have seen a staggering decline in sales in South Africa over the last decade.

While most carmakers have been struggling in the current economic climate, premium brands have been hit the hardest owing to substantial price hikes over the years.

These brands are also seeing increased competition from China with new models coming in at much more affordable prices.

Major South African mall officially opens new taxi rank after decades of chaos

Menlyn Park Shopping Centre in Gauteng has officially opened a new taxi rank on its premises.

The new space is intended to accommodate minibus taxis as well as larger long-distance midi-buses.

The taxi rank was created to address traffic problems in the area that have existed for well over a decade.

South Africa’s favourite car brand wants to make hot SUVs

Toyota recently discussed its upcoming plans for its celebrated Gazoo Racing (GR) division.

The company has ruled out a high-performance Hilux for the time being, but other models are not out of the question.

The high-performance wing said it wants to make a hot SUV to widen the appeal of the brand to new buyers.

Why you can only buy this Chinese hatchback in KwaZulu-Natal

The BYD Dolphin has officially gone on sale in South Africa, but there’s a catch.

The automaker is following an unusual launch strategy by introducing the hatchback in one province at a time.

The Dolphin is the cheapest electric car in the country at the moment with a starting price of R539,900.