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.

First look at Gauteng’s new number plates

Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has given the public a preview of what Gauteng’s new number plates could look like.

The new plates are intended to be tamper-proof to prevent cloning as part of an ongoing effort to reduce fraudulent plate circulation.

The prototypes will be fitted to provincial government vehicles as part of a trial phase that is expected to last for six months, after which they will be rolled out to the public.

Shell in hot water in South Africa

Shell Downstream South Africa has been caught operating multiple service stations that were built or expanded without mandatory environmental impact assessments.

The petrol company has subsequently been hit with three separate fines of R250,000 for these forecourts.

Shell has pleaded for leniency, stating that the fines are too high.

Renault confirms South African launch date of next-generation Duster

Renault has confirmed that the new Duster will arrive in South Africa in March 2025.

The crossover was initially expected to be released in the second half of 2024 but was subsequently delayed to the new year.

The Duster’s appearance and spec sheet has seen a complete overhaul and its 4×4 credentials like its off-road angles and ground clearance have been substantially improved.

Next-generation Mitsubishi Triton officially launched in South Africa

The next-gen Mitsubishi Triton has finally gone on sale in South Africa at a starting price of R479,990.

The bakkie is available as both a single- and double cab with 11 different models to choose from.

This includes three different special-edition trim levels tailored specifically for our market.

Major upgrade for South Africa’s biggest airport

Government plans to spend at least R21.7 billion on upgrades to South Africa’s airports.

This includes a project to overhaul the cargo and logistics area at O.R. Tambo International Airport.

The upgrades are intended to prepare the country’s infrastructure for the expected increase in passenger and commercial travel over the coming years.