There are not many announcements that create genuine excitement across the South African motor industry, but Toyota South Africa’s commitment of R10.4 billion towards the production of the all-new Hilux certainly does. In an environment where global manufacturers carefully evaluate every investment decision, Toyota has once again demonstrated its confidence in South Africa, its people and its manufacturing capabilities. It is one of the largest investments ever made in the local automotive industry and sends a strong message that South Africa remains an important player in the global automotive industry.
While the spotlight falls on the next-generation Hilux, the real significance of this investment extends far beyond a new model. It represents thousands of jobs being protected, new opportunities for local component manufacturers, and a stronger future for the entire automotive value chain. Every rand invested has a ripple effect—benefiting suppliers, transport companies, dealerships, service providers and ultimately the broader South African economy.
For those of us who are in the commercial vehicle industry, this is exactly the kind of news we like to see. It reinforces the importance of localisation, skills development and world-class manufacturing. It also reminds us that despite the many economic challenges our country faces, South Africa continues to produce vehicles that meet the highest international standards and are exported to markets around the world.
Toyota’s investment is therefore more than a commitment to a new Hilux—it is a vote of confidence in our country’s future.
Domestic vehicle sales remains positive
South Africa’s new vehicle market entered the second half of 2026 on a strong note, supported by fuel price reductions in July that provided relief to motorists and businesses. The lower fuel helped household and operating budgets and contributed to a more supportive environment for vehicle demand.
Total domestic new vehicle sales in July 2026 reached 57 708 units, representing an increase of 11,9% or 6 150 units, compared to July 2025.
The July 2026 new passenger car market at 40 912 units, reflected the best monthly passenger sales since September 2014, with an increase of 4,558 units, or 12,5%, compared to July 2025.
Sales in the medium and heavy commercial vehicle segments performed well during July 2026 with 843 medium commercial vehicles sold in July 2026 compared to the 706 units sold in July 2025, the strongest month of Medium Commercial sales since March 2023.
Heavy trucks and buses at 2 243 units in July 2026 also reflected an increase of 146 units, or 7,0% compared to the 2,097 units sold in July 2025.
In contrast to the above statistics, export volumes reached 32 801 units, a decrease of 11,6% versus the 37 114 units shipped in July 2025.
Here is the official petrol price for August
The Department of Petroleum and Mineral Resources has published the official fuel price adjustments that will take effect today, Wednesday, 5 August 2026.
July saw a wild swing in global oil prices after the United States reignited attacks on Iran halfway through the month, causing the Strait of Hormuz to shut once again.
This is how the price changes will reflect at the pumps for Inland:
93 Petrol 25.42
95 Petrol. 25.58
Diesel 0.05 (wholesale) 26.17
Diesel 0.005 (wholesale) 26.90
As we wrap up this month’s edition, our sincere thanks go to NAAMSA for their consistent and accurate reporting, which helps keep the industry informed and up to date.
From all of us at CLC Trucks, we wish you a productive, profitable, and successful month ahead.
