5 important things that happened in South Africa’s car industry this week

These were the five biggest stories in South Africa’s automotive industry this week.

Big roadworks projects for South Africa

South Africa’s roads will see a lot of activity in the coming months as major improvement projects have recently been started.

The Johannesburg Roads Agency has recommissioned the city’s asphalt plant after more than a year of no production, which will now put out up to 1,520 tonnes of tar per day to facilitate the speedier maintenance and upgrades of roads under its jurisdiction.

The major N2 corridor will also see work being done for the next year in the Eastern Cape, with blasting operations taking place once a week.

Why petrol is going up in September

Fuel prices are expected to see a big increase in September, owing to the rise of international oil prices and the US dollar/rand exchange rate.

The first point is the result of Saudi Arabia cutting oil production by one million barrels per day, leading to a huge drop in shipments around the globe.

The second factor is attributed to South Africa’s deteriorating infrastructure and economy, as well as its worsening relationship with the United States.

Two new Suzukis for South Africa

Suzuki made waves in the motoring scene this week with the launch of a new vehicle, and the reveal of another.

The XL6 is now on sale at a starting price of R326,900, offering a more premium experience than the brand’s other MPV, the Ertiga.

The carmaker also revealed the long-awaited five-door Jimny, which will feature at this year’s Festival of Motoring.

Cheaper flights on the cards for South Africa

South Africans can look forward to cheaper flights this holiday season.

This is a result of several airlines recently expanding their fleets, leading to more flights and more seats available in the air.

High inflation is also expected to curb spending this December, and thus demand for tickets, creating another opportunity for those who are still looking to travel before the end of the year.

30 Bajaj Qutes impounded in 5 days

The Gauteng Department of Transport impounded 30 Bajaj Qute cars operating as public transport services in Johannesburg this week.

The vehicles were locked up due to their drivers not being in possession of operator’s licences, which stipulates where and how a public transport vehicle is allowed to function.

The small cars are a relatively new phenomenon in the metro, leading to the matter of how they should be classified, such as a new kind of e-hailing service.