South Africa’s New Vehicle Market Remained Positive in May 2026
Total new vehicle sales for May 2026 was 51 071 units, – the best May since 2013, representing an increase of 12,8% or 5 784 units, compared to the 45 287 vehicles sold in May 2025.
The May 2026 new passenger car sales at 36 871 units recorded an increase of 5 170 units, or 16,3%, compared to the new cars sold in May 2025.
Medium and heavy commercial vehicle sales also delivered a positive performance during May 2026. Medium commercial vehicle sales at 718 units recorded a 13,6% increase compared to the 632 units sold in May 2025, while heavy trucks and buses, at 2 231 units, reflected a 12,9% increase compared to the 1 976 units sold in May 2025.
Exports remained under pressure in May 2026, with 29 392 units sold compared to the 30 859 units exported in the corresponding month last year.
Official Petrol Price Increases for June Announced
The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources has announced the official fuel price adjustments for June 2026.
Both grades of petrol will increase by R1.43 per litre.
Had it not been for the reinstatement of the Fuel levy,- petrol users would have experienced a marginal reduction of 7c per litre.
Things are much better for diesel motorists and truck operators as prices are dropping by between R2.62 per litre and R3.25 per litre.
Below indicates how the official fuel price adjustments for June will reflect at the pump.
Fuel type
Petrol 93 R27.95
Petrol 95 R28.06
Diesel 0.05% (Wholesale) R27.92
Diesel 0.005% (Wholesale) R29.26
Some Recognition to Our Drivers
Truckers keep economies moving, but their daily reality is far from the romantic image of freedom on the open road. Their story is one of long hours, danger, and sacrifice.
Truckers often work long shifts, driving through fatigue to deliver products in time. The roads are dangerous and poorly maintained. Unpredictable weather, and heavy loads increase the risk of accidents. In industries like mining, drivers sometimes sleep on-site because parking along the roadside exposes them to hijacking or violence.
Most truckers sleep in their vehicles, in cramped bunks behind the driver’s seat. Sleeping on the roadside is unsafe, so truck stops or company compounds become their only refuge. This constant lack of proper rest adds to exhaustion and stress.
Some drivers are also weeks or months away from home missing daily family life. The strain on relationships is immense, often leading to broken marriages and emotional isolation.
Truckers are the backbone of supply chains, yet their sacrifices often go unnoticed.
Next time you see a truck driver on the road, look beyond the vehicle and see the dedication, challenges, and hard work behind the wheel!
In closing, we at CLC Trucks wish you all a rewarding and not too cold June!!
