Africa Automotive - 2024 Growth of Africa's Automotive Sector

In 2024, Africa's automotive sector witnessed notable progress, primarily spurred by increased local production and advantageous trade policies. The continent is attracting a variety of automakers, both international and local, who recognise the potential within the region. This interest has led to a rise in automotive manufacturing plants across multiple African countries, reflecting a deliberate move towards regional production. The industry is also seeing a diversification of vehicle models being produced, catering to both local market demands and export opportunities.

Efforts to bolster the automotive industry are evident in the investments being made in infrastructure and technology. Countries such as South Africa, Nigeria, and Morocco are key players, offering a blend of skilled labour and favourable business environments. This development is creating job opportunities and fostering skills transfer, contributing to broader economic growth.

Another critical factor in this growth is the increasing collaboration between governments and industry stakeholders to create supportive policies and initiatives. These include tax incentives for manufacturers, streamlined customs procedures, and efforts to harmonise vehicle standards across the continent. Such measures are aimed at making Africa an attractive destination for automotive investment.

Furthermore, the push towards sustainability is also shaping the sector, with an increased focus on electric vehicles and green manufacturing practices. This trend is aligning with global shifts towards environmentally friendly motoring solutions, positioning Africa as a forward-thinking player in the global automotive arena.

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Impact of the African Free Trade Agreement

The African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) has the potential to transform the automotive industry across the continent. By connecting more than1,3-billion people into a single market, the AfCFTA provides significant opportunities for automakers to expand their reach and streamline operations. Additionally, a World Economic Forum report anticipates that global business under this agreement could boost the African automotive industry by $12-billion by 2027. These developments promise a more integrated market, reducing tariffs and improving trade efficiencies among African nations.

The removal of trade barriers under the AfCFTA is expected to ease the movement of automotive components and finished vehicles across borders. This will likely result in lower costs for manufacturers and consumers alike, fostering a more competitive market environment. Additionally, the agreement encourages regional value chains, allowing different African countries to specialise in various stages of vehicle production. This approach can lead to increased efficiency and higher-quality outputs.

Moreover, the harmonisation of regulations and standards across member states will simplify compliance for automakers, making it easier for them to operate in multiple countries. This is particularly beneficial for small and medium-sized enterprises looking to enter the automotive market. The AfCFTA's emphasis on economic integration and industrialisation aligns with the broader goal of sustainable development, positioning Africa as an increasingly attractive destination for automotive investment.

Indicators of Growth in the Automotive Industry

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The positive trajectory of Africa's automotive sector can be seen through various indicators. Afreximbank, in collaboration with the African Association of Automotive Manufacturers, is actively supporting industry growth. By harmonising automotive standards, developing training programmes, and providing financing, they aim to facilitate industry growth, with Afreximbank committing $1 billion to these efforts.

Vehicle production and sales figures are on the rise, reflecting increased consumer demand and manufacturing capacity. The establishment of new manufacturing plants in various African nations demonstrates robust confidence from both international and local investors. These investments are not only boosting production but also generating employment opportunities and enhancing skill development.

Furthermore, the automotive sector is benefiting from a rise in partnerships and joint ventures aimed at leveraging local expertise and global technology. This collaborative approach is leading to improved production processes and the introduction of innovative vehicle models tailored to the African market.

Another crucial indicator is the development of supply chain networks that are becoming more sophisticated, ensuring the efficient movement of automotive components and finished vehicles. These advancements are essential for meeting the growing demand for cars and motoring solutions across the continent.

In summary, these indicators highlight the increasing dynamism within Africa's automotive industry, showcasing a sector poised for sustained growth and development.

Industry Challenges

The African automotive industry, despite its promising growth, faces a range of challenges that could impede its progress. One of the most pressing issues is the inadequacy of infrastructure. In many regions, road networks and port facilities are not sufficiently developed to support efficient supply chain operations. This situation creates bottlenecks that can delay the movement of automotive components and finished vehicles, thereby increasing costs and affecting competitiveness.

Economic instability in some African nations also poses significant risks to the industry's growth. Fluctuations in currency values and inflation rates can create an unpredictable business environment, making it difficult for automakers to plan long-term investments. Additionally, political instability in certain areas can deter potential investors and disrupt existing operations.

Another challenge lies in the regulatory landscape, which can vary significantly from one country to another. This lack of uniformity complicates compliance for automakers, particularly those looking to operate across multiple African nations. While efforts are being made to harmonise vehicle standards under initiatives like the AfCFTA, achieving comprehensive regulatory alignment remains a work in progress.

Furthermore, access to financing is a critical hurdle for many local enterprises looking to enter the automotive sector. High interest rates and limited availability of credit can stifle innovation and restrict the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises that are essential for a vibrant automotive ecosystem.

Labour issues, such as the availability of skilled workers, also present obstacles. While some countries are investing in training programmes, the overall skill level of the workforce needs to be elevated to meet the demands of advanced automotive manufacturing.

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Technological Progress and Innovation

Technological advancements are playing a pivotal role in Africa's automotive evolution. There is a noticeable rise in electric vehicle production and adoption, driven by the continent's commitment to sustainable development. Pilot projects for sustainable vehicles are already underway in Rwanda, Egypt, and South Africa, with e-mobility startups emerging across the continent. The introduction of smart technologies in vehicles, such as advanced driver-assistance systems and connectivity features, highlights Africa's readiness to embrace innovation and align with global automotive trends.

Market Potential and Consumer Preferences

Africa's automotive market is burgeoning, spurred by emerging economies and an expanding middle class. These factors are significantly reshaping consumer preferences across the continent. There's a noticeable shift towards vehicles that prioritise sustainability, reflecting broader global trends towards environmentally conscious motoring. This change in preference offers automakers a valuable opportunity to introduce eco-friendly models that align with the increasing environmental awareness among African consumers.

In addition to the demand for sustainable vehicles, there's a growing appetite for advanced features and technologies in cars. African consumers are becoming more discerning, seeking vehicles equipped with the latest in safety, connectivity, and comfort. This trend is pushing automakers to innovate and adapt their offerings to meet these evolving expectations.

Moreover, the rise in disposable income among the middle class is leading to a higher demand for a diverse range of vehicles, from economical models to luxury cars. This diversity in consumer demand is encouraging manufacturers to broaden their portfolios to cater to different segments of the market. The interest in luxury and premium vehicles, in particular, is indicative of a market that is maturing and becoming more sophisticated.

The burgeoning interest in electric vehicles is another critical aspect of the changing market dynamics. Governments and private entities alike are increasingly promoting electric mobility as a sustainable alternative to traditional combustion engines. This is not only in line with global sustainability goals but also addresses local issues such as urban air pollution and fuel dependency.

Overall, the evolving market potential and consumer preferences in Africa present a promising landscape for the automotive industry. By responding to these trends, automakers can tap into a market that is both growing and increasingly sophisticated in its demands.

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Future Outlook and Opportunities

Looking ahead, Africa's automotive sector is poised for further advancement, driven by a combination of strategic investments, policy reforms, and technological innovation. The region's commitment to enhancing infrastructure and reducing trade barriers sets the stage for a more integrated and efficient automotive industry. Continued collaboration between governments and industry stakeholders will be crucial in creating an environment conducive to growth and innovation.

One of the most promising opportunities lies in the development of electric vehicles, with several countries already pioneering initiatives in this space. The shift towards sustainable motoring not only aligns with global trends but also addresses local challenges such as air quality and fuel dependency. This focus on green technology could position Africa as a leader in the adoption of environmentally friendly automotive solutions.

Additionally, the rising middle class and increasing urbanisation are expected to drive demand for a diverse range of vehicles, from budget-friendly models to premium cars. This expanding market offers a lucrative opportunity for automakers willing to tailor their offerings to meet the specific needs and preferences of African consumers.

Partnerships and joint ventures between local firms and global automakers are likely to enhance the transfer of knowledge and technology, fostering innovation and boosting production capabilities. As these collaborations flourish, they will contribute to the overall competitiveness of Africa's automotive sector on the global stage.

In summary, the future of Africa's automotive industry holds significant promise, with numerous opportunities for growth and development as the continent continues to embrace modernisation and innovation.

Originally published on CHANGECARS

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Africa Automotive: Doing it for ourselves

CAIRO: The African automotive sector is surging ahead with new projects and new plans for both assembly and the manufacture of parts to feed what is hoped will become a voracious beast – provided even more cooperation and support can be gained from governments across the continent.

Steady progress towards realising an African Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) is being made with countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Morocco and Egypt fully committed to making it work while, simultaneously, energising their own auto programmes.

The President of the African Association of Automotive Manufacturers (AAAM) and Managing Director of Volkswagen South Africa, Martina Biene, said at the opening of the Africa Automotive Show in Cairo: “There are multiple opportunities for everyone in Africa to be a part of the combined value chain.

Martina Biene

“A comprehensive automotive policy creates the framework for trade and will build new car demand but remains dependent on economies of scale and any policy framework must serve to increase that demand.”

Presenting the results of a ‘roadmap’ study done in Egypt on powertrain evolution, Dylan Jessup, Automotive Sector Incentives Manager at EY South Africa, said battery electric vehicles (BEV) was “not the panacea” and that each segment in the possible alternative power source options needed to be evaluated separately and specifically for each country to “determine economic, environmental and social benefits”.

“South Africa’s auto industry is very built on a trade based policy but we need to look at regional integration and establish a healthy supply chain (that could involve beneficiating the raw materials mined in various countries rather than sending them away only to be re-imported).

“Each country needs to look at it strengths and work on those and the actual implementation of the AfCFTA will then make trade easier.”

Of the issues demanding urgent attention is the one on fuel quality with much of Africa still running Euro II specification whereas Europe is moving to Euro VII.

Rynhardt Rall, Regional Product Manager for Nissan pointed out the automaker had two plants in Africa – South Africa and Egypt – saying: “It is very expensive to run internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles on Euro VII fuel but Africa does not need to go head-to-head or play catchup.

“Africa is rich in natural resources so it makes good sense to utilise that,” he says.

Biene concurred and added the low level fuel meant Volkswagen could not introduce some of its latest generation hybrid vehicles that simply could not run on Euro II fuel.

“The South African government has to become more pro-active on this issue.”

The Intra Africa Trade Fair (IATF) is a massive multi-cultural event covering many aspects of trade and industry and, while a large and very significant element, the Auto Show is just a part of an entity where deals worth billions of Dollars are being done by Africans for Africans.

In a keynote speech read on his behalf, Morocco’s King Mohammed VI said: “Africa needs now more than ever bold, innovative initiatives to encourage private entrepreneurship and unleash the full potential of our continent.

“Over the past two decades, Morocco has made infrastructure development a priority in all economic sectors and is pushing toward its goal of deriving more than 52% of its national electricity mix from renewable energy by 2030.”

The King also stressed African countries should enhance “coordination and cooperation mechanisms to drive regional integration”,  citing the Morocco-Nigeria Gas Pipeline Project he says will “enable all countries along the pipeline route to have access to reliable energy supplies and to be more resilient to exogenous energy price shocks”.

There is a slender thread that links all of the different activities and interests at IATF and literary superstar Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Narrative Landscape Press announced the launch of The CANEX Prize for Publishing in Africa.

Why does this matter?

“Stories can give us the confidence to own our aspirations,” says the writer. “CANEX is about hope – the hope of many more African stories. We need more African countries. Stories matter. Stories can take away dignity, but they can also restore dignity. Stories shape politics and perceptions.”

And that is the thread – reshaping politics and perception to benefit all Africans – and in his keynote address, Dr Akinwumi A Adesina, President of the African Development Bank Group, highlighted Africa’s prospects as a prime investment destination.

“The continent is not as risky as perceived, is growing and showing resilience despite global challenges. As investors, put your monies where the future is — the future is Africa.”

Part of the South Africa Pavilion at IATF

The President of Comoros, Azali Assoumani, pointed out manufactured African exports account for just 1% of world exports.

“We export them to developed countries and these countries re-export them to us processed and sell them back to us at ten times the price. Despite the obstacles, there are enormous opportunities for the development of value chains in Africa.”

Alec Erwin, former Minister of Trade and Industry now a driving force in the efforts of AAAM remarked the early 90’s in South Africa brought new challenges and the realisation the economy had to grow.

“Simply put, South Africa’s auto industry could not survive the way it was and that led to it changing to a volume production scenario which it managed very successfully. For Africa a similar system is needed that will let us all grow and, while there may be some policy differences, it will all be based on trade – and that is why AfCFTA is so vitally important.”

In a video address Anand Pather, Vice President Customer Services at Toyota South Africa, said: “Africa needs a comprehensive safety policy across the auto industry, something like the South African Bureau of Standards that will oversee all of the parts supply chain to ensure equal and high standards are maintained.”

If some of what AAAM and various African governments are talking about seems a bit ‘pie-in-the-sky’, think on this – the Start/Stop button so common in cars today started life as an Egyptian patent.

Colin Windell – proudly CHANGECARS

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Africa Automotive - All go for Cairo

As Egypt and, more specifically, Cairo gears up to host the Africa Automotive Show as part of the week-long Intra Africa Trade Fair, the country is also celebrating being ranked 28th in a global e-mobility index regarding the preparedness of the country is to transition to electric vehicles (EVs), and was categorized as a starter market after scoring 32 points out of 100.

Out of 35 countries studied in the new Global Electric Mobility Readiness Index (GEMRIX) 2023 by US consulting firm Arthur D Little, 13 countries from the MENA region were included, with Egypt ranked 10th in the Middle East.

“Despite the relatively low presence of EVs, the Egyptian government has been expressing strong ambitions to push for the promotion of EVs. A key reason for this ambition is the government’s commitment to achieving its sustainable development goals, which are elaborated in Egypt Vision 2030,” said the report – and this as South Africa still awaits clarity of the ANV Government as what it plans for the future.

According to the report, a starter market is one with a strong potential for new start-up-style entrants and early infrastructure development in a “blue ocean environment.”

It also noted that many of these markets would have some progress in establishing local EV manufacturers and an EV ecosystem.

In much the same time frame the Africa Association of Automotive Manufacturers (AAAM) announced Volkswagen’s Martina Biene is taking over the role of President from newly-named head of Stellantis South Africa, Mike Whitfield.

Martina Biene

Her goal – to play a “key role through AAAM to grow the automotive manufacturing industry from the 1,1-million vehicles a year today to 3,5-million or even 5-million by the year 2035”.

The AAAM was founded in November 2015 and is the only African entity with a focus on both widening and deepening the automotive industry across the continent by working with governments to develop investor-friendly policies as well as seeking to align a global stakeholder network, to free up Africa’s economic potential, via the automotive sector.

As the large South African of delegates and exhibitors heads for Cairo, it is with the hope the electric vehicle strategy for the country will have been outlined and, as Billy Tom, naamsa President and CEO of Isuzu Motors South Africa said recently: “As an industry reliant on exports to markets such as Europe, which has shifted away from ICE vehicles, we have to be able to adapt and meet these stringent demands to continue delivering vehicles there and to other similar markets.”

Colin Windell – proudly CHANGECARS

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Africa Automotive - The clock is ticking

As the clock counts down to the Intra Africa Trade Fair (IATF) taking place in Cairo, Egypt in November, the pace of African automotive development is picking up pace. . .rapidly.  

In new recent developments, Chinese automaker BYD – which recently launched in South Africa – announced its launch plans in Morocco in an alliance with Auto Nejma, a key player in automobile distribution in Morocco.  

Still in Morocco – The Minister of Industry and Trade, Ryad Mezzour, and Frank Huber, Forvia Group’s Executive Vice-President of Seating, recently launched the construction of the group’s new production facility in Sale near Rabat.  

The new industrial plant, which will expand the Group's industrial activity in Morocco, will specialise in the cutting and production of textile and leather covers for automotiveseats, to meet the demand of numerous European automakers.  

The equipment manufacturer will invest $15,4-million in this industrial initiative, which will generate 1 400 new jobs.   

“This fourth Faurecia plant reinforces our positioning as a destination of choice for investment in the automotive sector. It is a clear sign of the confidence of renowned players in our industrial potential and assets,” Mezzour says, adding, “this project will bring an added value to the Rabat-Sale-Kenitra region, reinforcing its position as a benchmark industrial hub in the automotive industry.” 

“We've been present in Morocco for nearly fifteen years, and we're delighted to open a new chapter in this country, where we already employ nearly 4 000 people, by expanding our plant in Sale,” Hubert stated.   “Morocco has seen significant growth in the automotive sector in recent years. We are delighted to be strengthening our position in this ecosystem today, and would also like to thank the local authorities for their support from the outset of this project,” he added.  

Since 2008, Faurecia, a Forvia Group company and the world's 7th largest automotive technology company has had three production facilities in Morocco: two in Kenitra and one in Sale.  

Algerian Trade and Export Promotion Minister, Tayeb Zitouni, recently announced China has agreed to build an automobile factory in Algeria and Yazaki, a Japanese car parts supplier, has signed an agreement with the Governor of Fayoum in Egypt to allocate land for a new factory that will be constructed by the company's local subsidiary using $33,27-million in investments. 

Although South Africa remains the largest automobile manufacturing country in Africa, the gap is narrowing and particularly in the establishment of investment in the supply chain sector.  

A quick snapshot of some of the activity around Africa shows:  

Ghana: Kantanka Automobile Company: Founded by Kwadwo Safo Kantanka, this indigenous automaker has been producing vehicles since the early 1990s. Kantanka’s production facilities in Ghana assemble a range of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, pickups, and luxury cars. The company focuses on designing and manufacturing vehicles that cater to the specific needs of the African market.

Nigeria: Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing (IVM): Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing (IVM), founded by Innocent Chukwuma, is a leading player in Nigeria’s automotive sector. IVM has established a modern production facility in the city of Nnewi, where it assembles a diverse range of vehicles, including cars, buses, and trucks.

Kenya: Mobius Motors: Mobius Motors, headquartered in Nairobi, is a notable example of Kenya’s commitment to producing vehicles that meet local transportation challenges. The company focuses on creating affordable and rugged vehicles designed for African road conditions and transportation needs. 

The African Automotive Show runs concurrently with IATF2023 from November 9 to November 15 and, based on figures from the last IATF, held in Durban, could generate more than R840-billion in trade deals.  

Besides the 1 600 exhibitors, 79 countries and 35 000 attendees that will be participating at the event, here are another nine reasons you need to register today.  

Automotive companies including commercial (bus and truck) and passenger vehicle manufacturers, assemblers, importers, component manufacturers, dealers, parts & accessories distributors, electric motorcycles and vehicles, infrastructural projects and agencies, other members of the value-chain, including mineral processing, logistic services providers and automotive development agencies will have an opportunity to showcase their products and also interact with potential buyers, suppliers and governments.

The Automotive Forum (conference), spearheaded by the African Association of Automotive Manufacturers (AAAM) addresses the most pertinent issues affecting Africa’s automotive growth. Highlights of the 3-day program include:

- Presentations from global automotive leaders, including multi-national OEMs

- Participation of several Heads of State

- An agenda that seeks to facilitate cooperation and the development of regional auto supply chains (trade between auto hubs) for auto manufacturing on the continent.

- Unprecedented networking with all of Africa’s key role-players and international partners.

A B2B and B2G platform: The platform will provide matchmaking and business exchange opportunities for vehicle manufacturers, vehicle assemblers, OEMs and component suppliers and other automotive industry service providers, leading to the conclusion of business and investment deals across various sectors.

This is supported by a dedicated African Buyers' Programme  Africa (excluding South Africa) currently accounts for only 0,5% of the global automotive market (600 000 units). Its motorisation rate is just 45 vehicles per 1 000 inhabitants - significantly below the global average of 203.   The exhibition will attract continental and global buyers and sellers, including executives and market expansion managers that will engage in business deals in, amongst others:

- Parts Manufacturing, including EV components, batteries and solar

- Raw Materials

- Parts Supply

- Parts Distribution

- Vehicle Manufacturing

- Component Manufacturers

- Vehicle Aftermarket Services

- Logistics Service Providers

- Infrastructural Projects e.g. Special Economic Zones

- Vehicle Accessories:

- Vehicle Electronics

- Vehicle Security

- Vehicle Maintenance

- Electric Vehicle Supply

- Electric Vehicle Accessories

- Vehicle Finance (Including Insurance)

  While challenges exist, the potential impact of a flourishing automotive sector is immense. The growth of the industry can drive economic development, create jobs, facilitate technology transfer and meet the unique transportation needs of African consumers.  

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Africa Automotive - Cairo is a go

The Automotive Expo and Forum is a go for 2023 at the Egypt International Convention Centre in Cairo – this follows a venue change from the original Abidjan site.

As part of the Intra Africa Trade Fair 2023, the Automotive Expo, hosted by the African Association of Automotive Manufacturers (AAAM) gains feature status this year within the fair that runs from November 9 to November 15.

Fully backed by the Department of Trade and Industry in South Africa, many local automakers and assemblers are expected to be visible in Cairo along with a strong showing from assemblers in other African countries such as Morocco.

Indeed, automotive interest and passion at all levels is becoming increasingly evident in the investment plans already in place, or being put into place, in various African countries and, perhaps, is highlighted by the news Kenya will be staging an auto show in September.

This will run from September 15 to September 17 at, the Sarit Centre Expo Hall in Nairobi and aims to attract new partners and players in the automotive and associated industries.

The Motorshow's theme this year is ‘The Connection,’ emphasising the seamless integration of automotive technology with our daily lives and the endless possibilities it brings.

The organisers expect 10 000 attendees and the title sponsor is NCBA Bank whose Group Managing Director, John Gachora, says: "As the leaders in asset financing in Kenya and East Africa, we are dedicated to creating sustainable transport options by providing affordable financing solutions."

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Colin-on-Cars - First Ranger off the line

After months of build-up news, a factory ‘unveiling’ and more than plenty hype, Ford Motor Company’s Silverton Assembly Plant in Pretoria, today became the third plant to commence production of the new Ranger for customers around the world.

The start of the production follows a major investment of US$1,05-billion (R15,8 billion) in Ford’s South African operations and supplier tooling to allow exports to more than 100 markets, including Europe.

Ford Motor Company now has three production hubs in the International Markets Group (IMG) region producing Next-Gen Ranger for global markets, including the Silverton plant in South Africa, and two plants in Thailand. The company also has CKD operations in Vietnam and Cambodia to assemble the Ranger, with plants in the US and Argentina to begin production in 2023.

Commitment

“The start of Ranger production in South Africa highlights our commitment to delivering must-have products for our customers, not just in South Africa but around the world,” says Dianne Craig, president of Ford International Markets Group (IMG).

“South Africa is an important part of our global Ranger manufacturing network, and it is fantastic to witness the investment being utilised to modernise and transform the Silverton Assembly Plant to produce vehicles of the absolute best quality for customers around the world.”

The expanded operations in South Africa contribute to job creation and economic development, with 1 200 new jobs added for a third shift to support the increased production volumes. This takes the workforce at Ford South Africa to 5 500 employees. Ford’s supplier network benefits too, with approximately 10 000 jobs added across the value chain.

Of the total investment, approximately US$686-million (R10,3 billion) has gone into the transformation and modernisation of the Silverton plant with the construction of its first on-site Stamping Plant, a new highly automated Body Shop, and the introduction of the latest vehicle assembly operations on the Trim, Chassis and Final line.

Furthermore, the only Ford-owned and operated Frame Line in the world was built in the new Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ) supplier park adjacent to the Silverton Assembly Plant. Ford’s investment in tooling at its major supplier companies totalled US$365-million (R5,5-billion).

In addition to the Silverton investment, Ford injected US$34-million (R600-million) into its Struandale Engine Plant in Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth), which produces all the engines used in the new Ranger.

The investment in Struandale Engine Plant has helped Ford introduce the new 3,0-litre V6 Diesel engine program, comprising cylinder head machining and engine assembly. Upgrades for the Ranger were also implemented on the existing assembly line for the 2,0-litre Single Turbo and 2,0-litre B-Turbo diesel engines.

“We have put immense effort, resources, and the latest technologies in place to ensure the Ranger is truly world-class, and that the Silverton plant globally equals the very best,” says Andrea Cavallaro, Director Operations, Ford IMG.

“We took several strategic decisions including the decision to bring the stamping operations and the frame manufacturing in-house, to ensure complete control of the production quality. The process put in today guarantees that the components going onto the assembly line for every Next-Gen Ranger are of the highest quality.”

The Stamping Plant at the Silverton Assembly Plant is in a new 10 320 m2 facility and feeds stamped body panels directly to the adjacent and completely new 44 000 m2 Body Shop, which is highly automated with approximately 493 robots.

Technologies

“To meet our volume and quality objectives, we have the world’s only Ford-owned and operated chassis manufacturing plant at the Silverton plant that uses the most advanced technologies currently available,” Cavallaro added.  

In addition, the 100 000 m2 Frame Line in the Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ) supplier park, located next door to the Silverton Assembly Plant, ensures the seamless sequencing of parts directly to the assembly line.

First launched in 2011, the Ranger remained one of the leading contenders in the local market over the ensuing 11 years, earning a long list of accolades in the process.

“The success of the Ranger globally establishes it as one of Ford’s most important nameplates sold in every continent,” said Neale Hill, President, Ford Motor Company Africa. “The Next-Gen Ranger is sure to raise the bar yet again and with the start of production in the Silverton assembly plant, South Africa is proud to play a role in its growth.”

What now remains to be seen is if Ford South Africa will continue to build a range of the older version to service its large corporate market.

To my mind this is a no-brainer, especially considering the final few months of production of the outgoing model were done on the new Ranger line as a kind of tesdt bed production – so there is no reason why both cannot co-exist.

First Ranger off the line: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wD3xnh7cHsE

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