South African Motor Industry – Proud and Consistent
Despite fewer selling days in April 2025 compared to April 2024 with all the public holidays, and a brief return of load-shedding, the new vehicle sales performance encouragingly continued the upward momentum of the first quarter into the second quarter of 2025.
Inflation also fell to 2,7% year-on-year in March 2025, marking it the lowest level since June 2020.
Globally the new vehicle market showed signs of numbers of escalating economic uncertainty, but the South Africa’s automotive sector continued to show determined flexibility with export capabilities, and ability to operate within a shifting global economy.
Naamsa Sales Statistics for April 2025
Total domestic new vehicle sales at 42,401 units, reflected an increase of 11,9% from the 37,899 vehicles sold in April 2024.
Export sales decreased by 6,6% to 31,822 units in April 2025 compared to the 34,088 vehicles exported in April 2024. Year to date export sales are still 6,3% ahead comparing to the same period last year!
Medium and heavy truck sales yet again reflected a mixed performance with 629 mediums units and 1,710 heavies. These numbers recorded an increase of 58 units from the 571 units sold in April 2024 in the case of medium commercial vehicles, but in the case of heavy trucks and buses there were a decrease of 213 vehicles sold compared to the 1,923 units in the corresponding month last year.
VAT hike officially suspended in South Africa
The increase in VAT by half a percentage point was announced in the 2025 National Budget speech in March. The DA brought the case against parliament and the Western Cape High Court officially suspended the increase pending the passing of legislation regulating the VAT rate.
Dangerous hijacking tactic making a comeback in South Africa
The “blue light’ hijacking tactic has increased again in South Africa, with hijackers impersonating police officers in 2025, specifically in Gauteng.
These criminals are locally known as “blue-light gangs” who confront drivers by setting up roadblocks or instructing them to pull over while claiming to be members of the Police Service or municipal police.
The hijackers drive vehicles marked with police signage or use flashing blue lights. They also wear police uniforms or display fake police appointment cards to deceive their victims. Safety tip – never stop if you suspect foul play, instead slow down, activate hazard lights and drive to the nearest police station or public place with CCTV cameras.
For years, Toyota, Volkswagen, and Ford cars have been the most targeted vehicles, and still are! However, the increase of Chinese automakers in the South African market has introduced new targets.
These vehicles join the list of favourites among hijackers, which includes:
• VW Polo
• Toyota Hilux
• Ford Ranger
• Toyota Corolla Cross
• Toyota Fortuner
• Haval Jolion
• Chery Tiggo 4 Pro
In closing once again thanks to Naamsa for accurate and on time reporting as well as Businesstech for useful and informative news.
We at CLC Trucks wish you all a fruitful May month with less public holiday interferences!
– Cobus Lourens –
