South Africans under the age of 35 are playing a smaller role in the country's vehicle market than they did a decade ago.
South Africans under the age of 35 are playing a smaller role in the country's vehicle market than they did a decade ago, as economic pressures continue to make car ownership less attainable.
New research released by Lightstone shows that stagnant incomes, persistently high youth unemployment and the rising cost of living have reduced the purchasing power of younger consumers.
Higher fuel prices, insurance premiums and maintenance costs have added further pressure, while access to public transport has reduced the urgency of owning a vehicle for some buyers.
The study found that buyers younger than 35 accounted for 31% of all new light vehicle purchases in 2025, down from 37% in 2015.
