Carmakers cash in as new-vehicle sales reach 13-year high

South Africa’s new vehicle sales hit highest May level since 2013 despite rate and fuel pressures

South Africa's auto market hit May-2013 highs with 51,071 units sold (+12.8% YoY), signaling strong fleet renewal and commercial demand. Rising interest rates (prime 10.50%) and fuel costs are eroding consumer affordability, constraining sustained growth through H2 2026.