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Before we dive into this vehicular adventure, let’s acknowledge that we’ve got a bit of a road problem. According to Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula, our roads are like that old pair of jeans you just can’t let go of – 40% of the provincial network is past its prime and a whopping 80% of the national road network is older than your uncle’s stories about the good old days.

But hey, it’s not just the roads, we’ve got a real issue with access to safe transport options. Limited access to safe and affordable transport makes people get creative with their commutes and not always in a good way. Vulnerable road users like pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists are having a tough time out there. And then, you get taxis, affordable and convenient, sure, but they’ve got a bit of a reputation for turning the road into a real-life game of bumper cars.

Also read: ‘Optimistic’ outlook of 1 451 road fatalities over festive season

Now, let’s address the issue of regulations – or more accurately, the lack of them. Enforcing traffic laws is akin to trying to gather a bunch of rowdy individuals – it’s a challenging task with uncertain outcomes. It is important to establish significant penalties for those who have a heavy foot, disregard seat belt rules and neglect to use indicators.

Last year, the government made an announcement that caught our attention – they were in the works for new smart licenses, and were set to be released in October 2023. It’s a move that seems like a step in the right direction. Plus, here’s a little bonus, these new licenses will have a longer shelf life, going from five years to a solid eight.

Keletso Mpisane, the head honcho over at digitally-based motor insurer MiWay Blink, gave it a thumbs-up and mentioned how the beefed-up security features on these new driver’s license cards, like biometric data, holograms, and watermarks, will help put the brakes on those fake licenses and in turn, make our roads safer.

Related: Taxi Strike Recently Brought Cape Town Traffic to a Halt – But Why?

Let’s be honest with ourselves, It’s not just about new licenses and better roads. It’s about us, the drivers. Some of us have a bit of a superhero complex on the road, thinking we’re invincible. But it’s time to embrace the idea that following the rules isn’t just for fun, it’s for everyone’s safety. Keletso Mpisane from MiWay Blink reminds us that being responsible on the road isn’t just a personal thing, it’s a community effort. So, let’s all take a collective deep breath, use those indicators, and remember that the road isn’t a racetrack, it’s a shared space.

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This initiative represents a pioneering move in South Africa and is part of Cape Town’s R860 million investment in safety technology over the next three years.

The introduction of these cameras aims to improve crime-fighting efforts by providing evidence-based policing. Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis and Mayoral Committee Member JP Smith unveiled this technology, emphasizing that advanced technology is essential for ensuring Cape Town’s safety.

The body-worn cameras and dashboard cameras are expected to enhance situational awareness, strengthen the quality of evidence collection, and increase trust and accountability in the law enforcement division. All interactions with the public will now be recorded, contributing to transparency.

The dashboard cameras will feature number plate recognition technology, assisting officers in identifying wanted vehicles and individuals with outstanding arrest warrants. Cape Town’s comprehensive safety technology investment includes CCTV, aerial surveillance, drones, gunshot location technology, license plate recognition, digital coordination systems, radio and communication upgrades, and IT enhancements.

The rollout of in-vehicle camera solutions will enable officers to record incidents as they occur and stream live video to control rooms, improving situational awareness during critical events.

Related: Taxi Strike Recently Brought Cape Town Traffic to a Halt – But Why?

This technology promises to have a significant impact on the legal process. With additional video evidence, courts can make quicker and more informed decisions, ultimately enhancing the prosecution process and increasing the conviction rate. This tech-driven approach is expected to make Cape Town safer by leveraging modern tools to fight crime and improve law enforcement efficiency.

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Image: Toyota

Although Ford’s Ranger Raptor is the largest local offering from the Blue Oval, the F-150 Raptor R variant makes it look like a toy by comparison. The same can be said for Toyota’s Hilux and its US-only Tundra, which not only features a larger powerplant, but larger everything!

The chassis of the Tundra is composed of high-strength steel to aid in rigidity, whereas the bits of aluminium are introduced to help reduce overall weight. As a step up from its predecessor, the cross members have doubled in size to improve rigidity and add some reinforcements. Additionally, the Tundra also utilises a front cross member for steering, which the firm claims improves steering input and handling dynamics. The Tundra’s bed is formed from a sheet-moulded compound construction accompanied by aluminium cross members.

Related: Toyota Trademarks Land Hopper Name as a Potential Compact Cruiser

Image: Toyota

Toyota has done away with the leaf spring suspension system that underpinned the previous Tundra generation. In its place is a double-wishbone front suspension system and a multi-link rear suspension system. The Tundra is also offered with a TRD Off-Road package that imbues the suspension system with Bilstein monotube shocks, while the TRD Pro variant uses 2,5-inch FOX internal bypass shocks resulting in a 1,1-inch front lift.

At the core of the new Tundra is a twin-turbo V6 that is offered in two configurations, namely, the i-FORCE and i-FORCE MAX. The i-FORCE V6 produces a total output of 290 kW and 649 N.m. The higher-strung i-FORCE MAX is characterised by its use of a hybrid powertrain. The electric motor used in this configuration is responsible for movement below 30 km/h, whereafter the motor will work in tandem with the V6 petrol engine. Power is said to stand at 325 kW and 790 N.m. Mated to the engine is a 10-speed automatic transmission. What makes this performance even more significant is its towing capacity of more than 5 400 kg!

Image: Toyota

Related: 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser Envisioned as Shorteded 2-Door Cabrio

Despite a raving bakkie cult in South Africa, markets like the US are spoiled for choice from mid-size double cabs to truck-like bakkies with ludicrous powerplants.

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Image: Alfa Romeo

As we expected, Alfa Romeo has rebirted the 33 badge for their newcomer supercar. This is in fact what Alfisti have been waiting for although the model will be produced in highly limited numbers like the original with which it shares its name.

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Undeniably sharing its silhouette and styling cues with its late 1960s predecessor, of which only 18 were crafted, the contemporary 33 Stradale still features a mid-engined design. The retro-inspired body will be painstakingly handcrafted by the artisans at Carrozzeria Touring Superleggera – the same coachbuilders that have worked with the brand for years and brought the 8C-based Disco Volante to life. This marks the second instance in recent history where Alfa Romeo has received a completely bespoke coachbuilt body, following last year’s Giulia SWB Zagato.

Related: Alfa Romeo Rumoured to Rebirth ’33’ Badge with 6C Supercar on 30 August

In contrast to its ancestor, the modern-day 33 Stradale is somewhat less exclusive, as Alfa Romeo plans to produce 33 of these vehicles. All of which have already been reserved after a private viewing event on the 11th of September last year. Each car will be a “unique and unrepeatable work of art,” meticulously crafted by a dedicated team, offering an array of customization options.

Image: Alfa Romeo

Owners can choose their own custom VIN number, comprising eight hand-selected digits, which will also be prominently displayed on the centre tunnel. Featuring butterfly doors, this high-end Alfa Romeo boasts a carbon fibre monocoque, an aluminium H-frame, and a roof fashioned from a combination of these materials. Even the window frames are constructed from carbon fiber, with the rear glass being substituted with polycarbonate.

Image: Alfa Romeo

Jumping inside, and the 33 Stradale boasts two distinct themes: Tributo and Alfa Corse. While the former pays homage to the classic car, the latter exudes a sportier character. The cockpit-style interior incorporates leather, carbon fibre, aluminium, and Alcantara materials while faithfully preserving the essence of its 1960s predecessor.

Image: Alfa Romeo

In terms of powertrain, this is where things get interesting. Many expected this to be a re-bodied Maserati MC20, sharing the same underpinnings with the Italian sibling however the twin-turbocharged 3,0-litre V6 engine is rumoured to be an evolution of Alfa Romeo’s own potent 2,9-litre V6 which features in the Giulia and Stelvio Quadrifoglio models. Power comes in at 462 kW while torque figures have not been listed but are expected around 600 N.m (if the Quadrifoglio, Giulia GTA/GTAm, and the previously mentioned Giulia SWB Zagato are anything to go by). Shifting is handled by an eight-speed dual-clutch DCT which is channelled to the rear wheels via a limited-slip differential

Even more interesting, buyers can also opt for the sultry supercar to be motivated by a 560 kW electrified powertrain with 1 350 N.m. Range for the model is similar to the Maserati GranTurismo Folgore at 450 km on a WLTP cycle. It is suspected that it features the same EV powertrain from its Trident-badged counterpart but this is not confirmed.

Both V6 and EV models are poised to sprint to 100 km/h from a standstill in under three seconds and onwards to the top speed of 333 km/h. We know which flavour we’d have ours in, what about you?

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Image: Volvo

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Previously, the Volvo Versatility Finance scheme was available only for the Swedish firm’s combustion-engined vehicles, but in response to growing local demand for electric vehicles (EVs), the company has added the XC40 Twin Motor Recharge AWD Ultimate to the list of eligible cars, while also further refining its GFV offering.

Related: Review: Volvo XC60 Beast 2.0

According to Volvo, customers will now have the flexibility to choose between a 36- and a 48-month GFV contract period, with a mileage cap of 20 000 km per annum in each case. Moreover, consumers will have the option of putting down a 10% deposit to make the monthly instalment. Based on a variety of factors such as the chosen term and deposit, consumers can expect to benefit from a GFV of approximately 60% – 61% depending on the chosen contract period.

Image: Volvo

The automaker says the scheme guarantees buyback at a competitive predetermined value – provided the stipulated mileage parameters are not exceeded and the “wear and tear” conditions are met – after the agreed-upon contract term. The customer will then have the flexibility of either buying the vehicle outright, refinancing the vehicle, trading it in on a new model or simply returning it, with nothing further to pay.

“Local demand for EVs continues to gain momentum. The extension of our guaranteed future value offering gives more South Africans the opportunity to get behind the wheel of an electric SUV,” says Greg Maruszewski, Volvo Car South Africa Managing Director.

Volvo’s latest GFV offer runs until the end of September 2023.

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Image: Haval

Over the past several years, Chinese automotive brands have demonstrated consistent progress in their annual sales figures, showcasing the industry’s dynamic evolution. Let’s delve into a year-on-year comparison of sales growth for these brands during this period.

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This specific analysis zeroes in on Chery Auto South Africa and Haval Motors SA’s annual sales performance in the LCV and passenger segments. Both brands have risen to prominence, earning spots on the monthly best-sellers list. Notably, Chery Auto South Africa’s reentry into the market proved strategic after their shortlived first foray a few years prior but the brand has worked to alter that perception into a more positive one with their new fleet. Insights from their performance shed light on evolving automotive trends and consumer preferences.

Related: Who is Winning the Chinese Sales Race in South Africa?

Dr. Norman Lamprecht, the executive manager at Naamsa, provided some insights into this phenomenon. Notably, Chery Auto South Africa began reporting new vehicle sales at the end of 2021 once they had returned with a new lineup of models. As a result, although the Naamsa document shows zero sales from 2018 to 2021, Chery models have been experiencing significant demand after their return.

Want to know how well they are doing against other industry stalwarts? Read here: Chinese Manufacturers vs. Market Leaders in the Local Passenger Vehicle Segment

Turning our attention to Haval Motors SA, a brand that has consistently reported to Naamsa over this five-year period, it is evident that there has been a rise in popularity with their new lineup of models. The Chinese collection of automakers had already laid a solid foundation, setting the stage for subsequent growth. Specifically, in 2018, their sales amounted to a total of 2 554 vehicles. This comprised 109 units of the GWM H5, 551 units of the GWM M4, and the standout performer, the GWM P-Series Steed, with a notable 1 894 units sold.

Image: GWM

In the following year, 2019, Haval Motors SA experienced a considerable surge in sales. Their sales figures grew nearly fivefold compared to the previous year, reaching a total of 10 650 units sold. This remarkable growth in sales demonstrated the Group’s growing popularity and market presence. With the introduction of new models, it is expected that their ageing lineup would drop in sales. Despite the solid foundation laid, there were noticeable shifts in sales for specific models. The veteran GWM H5 and M4 experienced a substantial decline in sales, with only 10 and 124 units sold respectively. This marked a significant contrast from their previous annual sales performance.

Related: All Chinese Imported Vehicles Sold in South Africa

Breaking down the model-specific sales, the Haval H1 garnered notable attention, securing sales of 2 916 units, and the H2 recorded sales of 4 403 units, showcasing a strong market presence. However, the Haval H6 experienced a dip in sales, with only 383 units sold, while its counterpart, the H6 C, garnered better traction with 699 units sold. The Haval H9 saw more modest demand, selling 98 units, while the Haval Jolion and the GWM P-Series did not register any sales in 2019, the P-Series Steed managed to secure 2 017 sales.

Shifting focus to 2020, it’s crucial to acknowledge the impact of Covid-19 on new vehicle sales during the year. As expected, there was a noticeable drop in sales figures during this period, reflecting the industry-wide challenges posed by the pandemic. Notably, the GWM H5 saw no sales during this period, signalling its exit from the market, while the GWM M4 experienced a sharp decline, selling just 3 units.

On the Haval front, the H1, though still in demand, witnessed a drop in sales, with 2 185 units sold in 2020. In contrast, the Haval H2 gained traction, recording sales of 4 460 units. The Haval H6 SUV and its counterpart, the H6 C, recorded sales figures of 320 and 496 units, respectively. Meanwhile, the Haval H9 had a more modest showing, selling 71 units in 2020. It’s important to note that the Haval Jolion was yet to be introduced, and thus, there were no recorded sales for this model.

Image: Haval

Shifting the focus to the bakkie segment, the GWM P-Series had limited sales at 42 units, whereas the P-Series Steed continued to perform well, selling 1 675 units. In total, Haval Motors SA recorded 9 252 units sold in 2020.

Moving on to 2021, the Haval H2 maintained a decent presence with 2 325 units sold. The Haval H6, on the other hand, experienced a surge in sales, reaching 1 693 units, surpassing the H6 C, which sold 397 units. The Haval H9 recorded sales of 105 units, and the introduction of the Haval Jolion saw remarkable success, with 5 417 units sold in its debut year. In the bakkie category, the GWM P-Series made a comeback with 4 556 units sold, while the P-Series Steed experienced a decline with 3 105 units sold in 2021.

Fast forward to 2022, Chery South Africa signalled their return to Mzansi. The Chery Tiggo series made a notable debut, with the Tiggo 4 Pro selling 4 622 units, the Tiggo 7 Pro recording 2 084 units sold, and the Tiggo 8 Pro garnering 1 307 units in total. Chery South Africa’s cumulative sales amounted to 8 013 units.

Image: Chery

For Haval Motors SA, 2022 presented a mixed picture. The H1 saw no sales, while the H2 recorded 6 units sold. The Haval H6 hit a peak, selling 4 771 units, whereas the H6 C registered only 2 units sold. The Haval H9 recorded 89 units sold for the year. Notably, the Haval Jolion continued its impressive run, with sales figures reaching 9 068 units. In the bakkie segment, the GWM P-Series achieved 4 182 unit sales, while the P-Series Steed performed well with 4 521 units sold. Haval’s total sales for 2022 amounted to an impressive 22 639 units across the expanding range.

Here is a broad look at the annual sales growth for Chinese Automakers

Haval Motors SA annual sales 2018: 2 554

Haval Motors SA annual sales 2019: 10 650

Haval Motors SA annual sales 2020: 9 252

Haval Motors SA annual sales 2021: 19 062

Haval Motors SA annual sales 2022: 22 639

Chery Auto South Africa annual sales 2022: 8 013

Dr. Normal also shared his thoughts about the recent sales growth, “Given the weak macro-economic environment in the country with high-interest rates, high inflation and pressure on household incomes affordability seems to drive new vehicle sales. Consumers are buying down to smaller vehicles or used vehicles. The Chinese brands are popular and affordable and therefore gaining traction”.

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Mitsubishi SA has confirmed that the Eclipse Cross will be replaced by a new seven-seater model sharing its platform with the Xpander and Outlander Sport. Here is all we know so far.

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In a recent “What’s Up” interview with Managing Director of Mitsubishi Motors South Africa, Thato Magasa, Ian McLaren had the opportunity to take a glimpse into the roadmap of the Japanese automaker on local soil. Part of their plans are to introduce a third model that will share its platform with the Xpander and Outlander Sport as a seven-seater to replace the Eclipse Cross.

Related: Confirmed: ASX Out and Xforce in for Mitsubishi South Africa

While news on the Xforce/ASX replacement badged as an Outlander Sport is chief for the short term in South Africa, the Japanese automaker will also be unveiling the aforementioned 7-seater SUV within the next two years. Once the Indonesian-sourced model arrives, it will replace the current Eclipse Cross package.

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The current Eclipse Cross is soon to earn veteran status, serving on the market since 2017. On offer locally, the Mitsubishi SA replacement will have to match or better its predecessor in terms of specs. Powering the Eclipse Cross is a 1,5-litre turbocharged inline-four which is good for 110 kW and 250 N.m. Power is delivered to the front wheels with a CVT and average fuel consumption is rated at 7,7 L/100 km.

In terms of dimensions, the newcomer is stated to share its underpinnings with the Xpander and Outlander Sport which means it may grow marginally. The current model tips the scales at 1 490 kg and measures in at 4 405 mm in length, 1 685 mm in height and 2 166 mm in width.

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Image: Porsche

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Touted as the most potent model to ever wear the Cayenne badge, this 544 kW offshoot employs electrification as a way to retain the performance pedigree of its Turbo GT sibling while complying with automotive regulations. Read more about it here: The Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid is the Most Powerful Cayenne to Ever Exist

Porsche Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid Pricing

• Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid  – R3 412 000
• Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid Coupé – R3 490 000

The Porsche Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid is offered with a 5-year drive plan. Order books will open soon.

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Image: Mercedes-Benz

The updates include a revised front grille with the brand’s signature star pattern, redesigned rear LED lights, an upgraded infotainment system, and improved driving assistance features. While the visual changes are not drastic, they align the EQB with Mercedes’ growing range of electric vehicles.

The front bumper has been reshaped, and the taillights now have parallel lines instead of rectangular LEDs. Additionally, there are new wheel options, including an 18-inch design, two 19-inch designs, and a 20-inch wheel.

Stepping inside, the EQB boasts a new steering wheel with haptic controls. Mercedes has also introduced two “sound experiences” that mimic engine noise during acceleration and deceleration, but this feature is only available with the Burmester surround-sound system. The infotainment system has been updated with the latest software, offering three visual layouts: “Subtle,” “Sporty,” and “Classic.” The voice assistant has also been improved and the Burmester system now features Dolby Atmos for enhanced spatial audio. The EQB also features new cameras that enhance its driver-assistance systems.

Image: Mercedes-Benz

Related: Mercedes EQB 350 – local specification and pricing

The updated electric SUV is available in three variants: EQB 250+, EQB 300 4Matic, and EQB 350 4Matic, all supporting AC charging at up to 9,6 kilowatts and DC fast charging at up to 100 kW. The EQB 250+ comes with a 70,5 kWh battery, while the EQB 300 and EQB 350 have a 66,4 kWh battery. These batteries provide a range of up to 448 km with the smaller one and up to 536 km (WLTP) with the larger battery.

Image: Mercedes-Benz

The Mercedes EQB also receives additional enhancements, such as a trailer hitch with ESP trailer stabilisation, enabling the electric SUV to tow up to 1 700 kg.

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Image: Porsche

As the name suggests, the new king of the range utilises a hybrid setup, which is composed of an electric motor and the same 4,0-litre twin-turbo V8 that motivates its Turbo GT sibling. That electric motor, which sources its oomph from a 25,0 kWh high voltage battery, exerts a total of 130 kW. According to Porsche, the familiar turbocharged V8 has been “extensively reworked” although they are rather tightlipped about what has changed.

Related: Porsche 914 Restomod Barely Resembles What it is Based On

What has undoubtedly changed is the power output. It’s lower than the all-motor output in the Turbo GT (485 kW). The E-Hyrbid’s V8 produces 441 kW, but the V8 works in tandem with that electric motor to conjure up 544 kW and a tarmac churning 950 N.m! That is more than most of Porsche’s modern offerings, except some of the most power-laden 911 models.

Image: Porsche

Its performance-crazed ability doesn’t end there. Porsche offers a GT Package for the Cayenne Turbo E-Hyrbid, which serves as the pseudo-replacement for the Turbo GT model which has been barred in many markets due to emissions regulations. The GT package denotes a tightening and bolstering of the Cayenne’s systems from air suspension to chassis control. Most notably, a Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid with the GT Package sits 10 mm lower and utilises GT-specific pivot bearings to increase camber on the front axle. Accompanied by wider wheels, this allows for a more dynamic steering response in corners and greater cornering grip, according to Porsche. Options for the GT Package range from 22-inch GT Design wheels, that will house the standard Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes, the PDCC and rear-axle steering system.

Image: Porsche

The new Turbo E-Hyrbid model improves on the range and charging capabilities that were present in the previous iteration. The on-board 11 kW aids in shorter charging times, which allows for a sub-two-and-a-half-hour charging time at a “suitable charger”.

Below the many curves of the Turbo E-Huybrid lives Porsches’ new two-chamber, two-valve air suspension system. This system for greater adjustability of the suspension rebound and compression stages. Accompanying the suspension system is Porsche’s Torque Vectoring Plus system as standard across the Cayenne range.

Image: Porsche

Related: Porsche’s EV Macan Spied with Split Headlights and No Camo

Visual distinguishing features range from larger cooling air intakes, a slightly revised front-end styling, wheel arch trims and an exterior colour rear bump punctuated by a twin-tailpipe exhaust configuration. The cabin stands out by way of its aluminium inlays on the dashboard and door panels alongside its Race-Tex finished roof lining.

Image: Porsche

The Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid is offered at a base price of €176 324 in Germany which translates to roughly R3 524 290 based on current exchange rates. A Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid with the GT Package will be a much higher price of € 208 454 in Germany (R4 166 491 based on current exchange). Porsche South Africa has confirmed that the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid is planned for our market, though timing and official pricing are yet to be finalised.

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