South Africa’s automotive industry accounts for about 15% of total exports and makes a significant contribution of about 6% towards the country’s GDP. Picture: SuppliedPresident Cyril Ramaphosa used the SA Auto Week in Cape Town to announce that the country wasthat would incentivise the manufacture and sale of electric vehicles.
South Africa’s automotive industry accounts for about 15% of the country’s total exports and makes a significant contribution of about 6% towards the country’s GDP. “As many of our major trading partners rapidly shift towards EVs, it is imperative that we remain part of this global supply chain. This is a major industrialisation opportunity for South Africa and the region, particularly within the context of the African Continental Free Trade Area,” Ramaphosa said during his EV policy announcement on Thursday.
“The local automotive sector needs to position itself to take advantage of the demand for electric vehicles, new energy vehicles and sustainable fuels. The transition to cleaner, more sustainable practices in the automotive industry is a priority for our government. The automotive industry has a critical role to play in achieving South Africa’s climate targets.