ROBIN MEYERS
It’s been another busy few weeks in the South African motoring industry, with manufacturers introducing everything from affordable electric vehicles and powerful hybrid bakkies to limited-edition performance cars.
Here’s a look at some of the latest developments making headlines.
Chery Q brings electric motoring with a twist
Chery has officially launched its new Q electric vehicle in South Africa, and the manufacturer chose an unusual way to demonstrate its capabilities.
Instead of a conventional vehicle demonstration, guests participated in a cooking challenge in KwaZulu-Natal, using electricity supplied directly by the cars to power appliances including air fryers, microwaves and blenders.
The compact electric vehicle features a 42.7kWh battery, a 90kW electric motor and a claimed driving range of up to 400km under the NEDC testing cycle.
Its Vehicle-to-Load technology can supply up to 6.6kW of external power, making it useful for camping, outdoor activities and potentially emergency household power.
The Chery Q is available in two derivatives, with the Comfort starting at R349,900 and the Elite at R389,900.
GWM introduces electrified P300 bakkie
South African bakkie buyers now have another electrified option following the introduction of GWM’s P300 plug-in hybrid.
The new P300 2.0T Hi4-T PHEV combines a turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined 310kW and 750Nm of torque.
A 33.1kWh battery provides a claimed electric-only driving range of up to 115km, allowing many daily journeys to be completed without using petrol, provided the battery is charged.
The system also retains four-wheel-drive capability, making it suitable for buyers who want electric driving during the week without giving up the off-road abilities associated with a traditional bakkie.
The P300 also features fast-charging capability and the ability to power external electrical equipment.
Ford Mustang GT gets the Nite Pony treatment
For those who still prefer the sound of a V8 engine, Ford South Africa has introduced the limited-edition Mustang GT Nite Pony pack.
Powered by the familiar naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V8 engine producing 328kW and 540Nm, the Nite Pony retains the Mustang GT’s performance while introducing a more distinctive appearance.
Black wheels, badges, mirrors, grille details and a rear spoiler give the vehicle a darker, more aggressive look.
The Mustang GT Nite Pony is available in six exterior colours, with a recommended retail price of R1,375,000.
Toyota Hilux receives armoured protection option
South African vehicle-armouring specialist SVI Engineering has developed a B6 discreet armouring package for the latest-generation Toyota Hilux double cab.
The conversion provides protection against selected rifle threats while maintaining an exterior appearance close to that of a standard Hilux.
The company says the vehicle’s 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine, producing 150kW and 500Nm, is capable of handling the additional weight of the protective components.
The B6 package starts at R945,239 excluding VAT and the cost of the vehicle itself.
SVI also offers lower levels of protection for customers with different security requirements.
JAC Motors invests R500 million in South African expansion
JAC Motors South Africa has announced an investment of more than R500 million in new premises within the Lanseria Smart City development.
The investment forms part of the manufacturer’s plans to expand its local operations as it approaches ten years in the South African market.
The development will accommodate a new head office and parts warehouse, with further plans including retail facilities and an off-road track.
According to JAC Motors, the project is expected to create more than 500 jobs.
The company has grown its dealer network to more than 60 outlets across Southern Africa and continues to expand its range of passenger vehicles, bakkies and commercial trucks.
An evolving motoring market
From the increasing availability of electric and hybrid vehicles to continued investment in traditional performance cars and commercial transport, the latest announcements reflect the changing needs of South African motorists.
While electrification continues to gain momentum, manufacturers are also recognising that affordability, practicality, performance and after-sales support remain important considerations for local buyers.
And with more models and technologies entering the market, motorists have an increasingly diverse range of vehicles to choose from.
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