This is a free preview of the upcoming Africa EVs Weekly Digest, part of the new CGSP Intelligence service launching in Summer 2025.
Recent activity by Chinese automakers in South Africa shows growing momentum in the country’s vehicle sector as manufacturers seek new markets with shifting global trade dynamics.
South Africa is also a launchpad into the rest of Sub-Saharan Africa, meaning the trends there will likely extend to these countries.
Toyota, an established brand in the country, is planning to bring new electric vehicle (EV) models into South Africa. It seems that the Chinese players will face competition as more manufacturers, including Indian ones, target Africa’s most lucrative vehicle market.
This week on EVs in Africa:
Toyota to Debut Three EV models in South Africa
Toyota will introduce three fully electric models in South Africa in 2026. In this country, the nascent EV market has Chinese automakers competing against each other and European car makers.
The Japanese automaker leads the hybrid vehicles segment in South Africa, outpacing competitors by 67% as of 2024.
This move is based on the belief that one powertrain will not dominate mobility in the future.
Why This Matters: While South Africa’s activity promises to liberalize the EV market, the country remains an outlier in the Sub-Saharan Africa region since it has a higher spending power than most, if not all, the other countries in the area. This means replicating the model in different African countries will depend on local dynamics.
BYD Shark Arrives in Kenya
The BYD Shark is finally in Kenya. It offers a comprehensive cruising range of 670 km, including 100 km on pure electric power.
The truck, sold by Loxea, a dealer under CFAO Mobility, has not officially launched, but it comes at a time when transportation costs are rising in Kenya, driven by fuel prices.
Why This Matters: Wider adoption of trucks such as the BYD Shark could play a pivotal role in lowering the cost of goods and services, many of which are directly influenced by transportation expenses.
LDV to Unveil New eTERRON 9 Pickup in South Africa
LDV, a subsidiary of China’s SAIC Motor Corporation, is set to unveil its new all-electric eTERRON 9 pickup at the Festival of Motoring at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit this August. The full-size bakkie (a light truck or pickup truck) is aimed at South Africa’s premium market, where it will compete with established models such as the Ford Ranger Wildtrak and the GWM P500.
Why This Matters: LDV is pushing for a larger share of South Africa’s truck market, challenging long-established brands. The heightened competition could trigger price cuts as rivals move to defend their market share, potentially making vehicles in this segment more affordable for consumers.
In Context
South Africa will continue attracting electric vehicle brands, as its market already sees heightened competition. Driven by its spending power and manufacturing infrastructure, the country is an example for other African countries interested in growing their vehicle markets.
The takeaway: Job creation remains a challenge for many countries, including South Africa. How the market dynamics play out could become a playbook for other countries on how to liberalize their vehicle markets, which could translate into more jobs for their citizens.
