Innovation

Yet another Chinese carmaker is entering South Africa. This time it’s Geely, returning after a decade long absence, with a lineup that includes battery electric vehicles, hybrids and petrol models. The first importer of Geely cars in 2009 went into liquidation within two years of setting up shop in South Africa.

Its re-entry is part of a broader wave of Chinese brands expanding into the country, like BYD, Changan, Deepal, Dongfeng, and Chery Group’s new sub-brand Lepas. Chinese brands offer more value to budget-conscious buyers; their cars are also cheaper, and high-tech features come as standard, compared to what German carmakers are offering. It’s not just about filling showrooms; new entrants are reshaping the country’s motoring landscape, with aggressively priced ICE cars and a strong push into new energy vehicles (NEVs).