South Africa Aims for Global NEV Hub Status

President Ramaphosa Pushes for Advanced Vehicle Manufacturing

President Cyril Ramaphosa is urging government officials to accelerate efforts as he champions South Africa’s readiness to become a significant global player in the new-energy vehicle (NEV) sector.

Strategic Manufacturing Vision

Speaking at the BMW SA assembly plant in Rosslyn, Tshwane, President Ramaphosa expressed confidence in the nation’s potential. He highlighted South Africa’s advantageous position as the transition towards electric, hybrid, and hydrogen mobility gains international momentum.

“As the transition to battery-electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids and hydrogen mobility gathers momentum, SA is perfectly positioned as a key global manufacturing base for the mobility of the future.”

—President Cyril Ramaphosa

The President’s emphasis comes as the global automotive industry pivots towards sustainable transportation solutions. For instance, the International Energy Agency reported that electric car sales doubled in 2024 compared to the previous year, signaling a massive market shift (IEA 2024).

Building Future Mobility

President Ramaphosa‘s administration is focused on leveraging existing automotive manufacturing capabilities to foster the production of next-generation vehicles and their components. This strategic push aims to position South Africa at the forefront of this evolving industry.