From 317K to 633K: South Africa’s auto industry shows resilient growth over 26 years

South Africa has doubled from 317,000 units in 1999 to approximately 600,000 units in 2024.
Major peaks were recorded in 2006 (588K), 2016 (616K), and 2018 (632K), while noticeable declines occurred in 2009 (374K) and 2020 (447K), reflecting global economic shocks.
South Africa remains one of the leading vehicle producers in Africa, manufacturing a wide mix of passenger cars, light commercial vehicles (LCVs), trucks, and buses/coaches.
The industry plays a critical role in exports, employment, and industrial development, making South Africa an automotive hub on the continent.

South Africa’s vehicle production has shown remarkable resilience and growth over the past 25 years. Starting at just over 317,000 units in 1999, production steadily expanded, surpassing the 600,000 mark by 2018 and maintaining strong output levels despite global downturns such as the 2009 financial crisis and the 2020 pandemic dip.

By 2024, production stood at 600,000 units, approximately, effectively doubling the country’s automotive output since 1999. In this data, South Africa’s automotive sector covers passenger cars, light commercial vehicles (LVC), trucks, and buses/coaches, reinforcing its position as one of Africa’s most productive and diversified vehicle manufacturing hubs.

The country’s ability to sustain growth and recover from shocks underscores its strategic importance to Africa’s industrial landscape, with strong links to both domestic markets and international exports.

Source:

Source: International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers

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Period:

1999-2024

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