South Africa’s auto assembly and manufacturing industry is a key pillar of the country’s economy. It is the largest manufacturing sector in South Africa, with a substantial 18.7% of value addition within the domestic manufacturing output derived from vehicle and automotive component manufacturing activity. The auto industry also employs over 100,000 people and contributes around 5% to the gross domestic product (GDP).
In order to further develop the industry, the South African Automotive Masterplan (SAAM) 2021-2035 has been established with the aim of growing South African vehicle production to 1% of global production by 2035, increasing local content in South African manufactured vehicles to 60%, doubling automotive employment in the supply chain, improving automotive industry competitiveness levels to that of leading international competitors, transforming the South African automotive value chain, and deepening value-addition within South African automotive value chains.
To achieve these goals, six industry development pillars have been identified: local market optimization, regional market development, localization, infrastructure development, industry transformation, and the development of industry-required technologies and skills.
In a boost for the South African auto industry, Stellantis has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) and the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) to develop a manufacturing facility in South Africa. The aim is to complete this manufacturing project by 2025. This is an important step in Stellantis’ Dare Forward 2030 strategic plan towards strengthening their leadership in the Middle East and Africa region and becoming a major player in South Africa.
The South African auto industry is set to benefit from this new manufacturing plant, as it will bring more jobs and economic growth to the country. It will also be interesting to see which models Stellantis will produce in South Africa, especially as the world is transitioning to electric vehicles. This new development is a positive step forward for South Africa’s auto industry and will help to further strengthen its position as a key pillar of the country’s economy.
FAQ
Q1. How electric car batteries work?
A1. Electric car batteries are typically lithium-ion batteries that store energy and power the motor. They are recharged by plugging the car into an electric outlet or charging station.
Q2. What electric car has the longest range?
A2. The Tesla Model S has the longest range of any electric car currently on the market, with a range of up to 370 miles on a single charge.
Q3. How electric car chargers work?
A3. Electric car chargers work by connecting the car to an electrical outlet or charging station and transferring electricity from the outlet to the car’s battery. The amount of time it takes to charge the battery depends on the type of charger and the size of the battery.
