The Reserve Bank (SARB) has announced a 25-basis-point cut to the repo rate, reducing it to 7%. As a result, the prime lending rate for commercial banks will drop to 10.50%.
“The National Automobile Dealers’ Association (NADA) welcomes this decision, which offers meaningful relief to consumers and businesses alike in a persistently challenging economic climate. Lower interest rates enhance vehicle affordability and will help energise demand in both the new and pre-owned vehicle markets, particularly in cost-sensitive segments,” says Brandon Cohen, Chairperson of NADA.
The rate cut comes amid heightened global uncertainty, with South Africa facing the prospect of export tariffs as high as 30% following an impending trade deadline set by the United States. While broader economic challenges remain, SARB’s decision sends a positive signal and may help strengthen domestic resilience.
Brandon notes that although this may be the final window for monetary easing in the near term, with inflation having remained within SARB’s 3% to 6% target range for nine consecutive months, the cut is a step in the right direction. “The automotive retail sector remains resilient, and dealers continue to support customers through tailored finance solutions and value-driven offerings,” he adds.
Dunlop Tyres South Africa has completed a R1.7 billion investment programme at its uMnambithi (Ladysmith) manufacturing facility, introducing new manufacturing technology and expanding production capabilities at the plant.
Mahindra & Mahindra has unveiled the Scorpio Lifestyler, a midsize lifestyle bakkie derived from the Global Pik Up concept first shown in Cape Town in 2023.
The South African automotive industry has gained some breathing space following the latest move by the United States Senate to extend the African Growth and Opportunity Act, or AGOA, to the end of 2028.
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Cars are the ultimate symbol of freedom, independence and individualism. They offer the freedom to ‘go anywhere,’ whenever it suits and with whom one chooses.
Sarah Redshaw
Dunlop Tyres South Africa has completed a R1.7 billion investment programme at its uMnambithi (Ladysmith) manufacturing facility, introducing new manufacturing technology and expanding production capabilities at the plant.
The South African automotive industry has gained some breathing space following the latest move by the United States Senate to extend the African Growth and Opportunity Act, or AGOA, to the end of 2028.
General Motors (GM) has renewed its joint venture with China's SAIC Motor Corp for another 20 years, enabling the United States (US) automaker to use China as an export hub amid rising competition from Chinese brands in and outside their home market.
