Chinese car manufacturers are taking the South African auto industry by storm, growing their market share significantly over the last few years. Once seen as fringe players, these brands are now standing toe-to-toe with long-established global automakers, offering competitive pricing, cutting-edge features, and wide-ranging vehicle options. Their rapid rise signals a shift in consumer preferences and a growing appetite for affordable yet stylish and tech-rich vehicles.
Rapid Rise in Market Share
In 2019, Chinese-made vehicles accounted for a modest 2% of South Africa’s light vehicle sales. Fast forward to mid-2024, and that number has soared to around 9%, with no signs of slowing down. What’s even more notable is that vehicles manufactured in China by non-Chinese brands now account for an additional 10% of the local market. This means that nearly one in every five cars sold in South Africa is coming from a Chinese factory.
This significant jump highlights the growing trust South African buyers are placing in Chinese automotive technology and build quality. Local dealerships have also embraced these brands, expanding showroom floors and stock levels to meet growing demand.
Dominant Chinese Brands in South Africa
Among the Chinese players, Chery has quickly emerged as a household name. The Chery Tiggo 4 Pro is one of the best-selling Chinese models and is widely praised for its mix of affordability, modern styling, and extensive tech features. Chery’s sales in South Africa have surged to over 5,000 units per quarter in 2025, putting it in direct competition with popular non-Chinese brands.
Great Wall Motors (GWM) and its Haval sub-brand have also cemented their place in the top tier of automakers operating in South Africa. GWM regularly features among the top ten best-selling car brands in the country, with the Haval Jolion and H6 leading the charge. These models are praised for their sleek design and value for money.
Newcomers like Jetour, another Chery-owned brand, have made impressive strides since entering the market in late 2024. Within just a few months, Jetour managed to sell more than 1,500 vehicles—a clear indication of South Africa’s openness to new and affordable car options.
Chinese Brands and the Electric Future
Chinese manufacturers are also pushing the electric vehicle (EV) revolution in South Africa. Brands like BYD (Build Your Dreams) are aggressively expanding their dealership networks, product lines, and marketing efforts. BYD, which entered the market in 2023 with the ATTO 3, has since launched a number of electric and hybrid models, including SUVs and pickups aimed at mainstream consumers.
Plans are already in motion for Chinese automakers to scale up operations, with BYD aiming to expand its dealership network to over 30 locations by 2026. These efforts align with South Africa’s broader goals of encouraging the adoption of cleaner, greener vehicles and reducing dependency on fossil fuels.
What Makes Them So Appealing?
The appeal of Chinese vehicles lies primarily in their cost-to-value ratio. Many South African consumers are becoming increasingly budget-conscious amid rising living costs and high interest rates. Chinese cars meet these needs perfectly, delivering a premium experience—think touchscreen infotainment systems, advanced driver-assist technologies, and stylish interiors—at a much lower price point than competitors from Europe, Japan, or the U.S.
Moreover, the improved quality and reliability of modern Chinese vehicles have helped shed earlier stereotypes of subpar craftsmanship. Warranties are now competitive, parts availability is improving, and service networks are expanding.
Finance Trends Support the Growth
Banks and financial institutions have taken note of this trend. Vehicle financing data shows a growing portion of approved loans going toward Chinese-branded vehicles. One of South Africa’s leading banks reported that the share of Chinese cars in its financed vehicle portfolio rose from around 6% in 2022 to more than 7% in early 2024.
While overall vehicle sales in South Africa have declined slightly due to economic pressures, Chinese brands have managed to grow, bucking the broader trend and positioning themselves as resilient alternatives.
The Road Ahead
The future looks bright for Chinese automotive brands in South Africa. Their ability to combine affordability, innovation, and fast-paced rollout of new models gives them a strong advantage. As more South Africans seek practical, modern vehicles without breaking the bank, Chinese manufacturers are likely to continue winning over buyers.
Additionally, as South Africa moves slowly but surely toward electric mobility, Chinese carmakers are poised to lead that transition. With strategic investments, local partnerships, and consumer education, they are well-positioned to expand even further in the coming years.
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