Chinese automakers launched a raft of electric, hybrid and pickup truck models at South Africa's biggest auto show, betting on growing demand for electrified vehicles and seeking to challenge established rivals in the country's highly competitive pickup market.
China's Changan and its partner Jameel Motors South Africa introduced the Deepal S05 range-extended electric vehicle — which uses a small petrol-powered engine to recharge the vehicle's battery as it runs — and Changan Uni-S hybrid SUV.
Meanwhile Dongfeng distributor E Auto Motor launched the Forthing Friday range-extended crossover and Friday battery-electric vehicle, and introduced Chinese brand Kaiyi.
Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Co (BAIC) also introduced its premium new-energy vehicle brand ARCFOX, starting with the T1 compact electric SUV, which is due to launch in October.
The companies used the annual WesBank Festival of Motoring to showcase electrified vehicles aimed at attracting both price-sensitive and affluent buyers.
