Chinese and Indian automakers race to Africa’s richest nation amid US trade barriers

South Africa has recently witnessed a wave of announcements from carmakers such as Leapmotor, LDV, and Tata Motors, all signaling plans to expand into Africa’s richest nation.

The flurry of activity reflects growing momentum in the continent’s automotive sector, as manufacturers seek to capture new markets amid shifting global trade dynamics.

The development comes against the backdrop of South Africa’s strained relations with the United States, where recent tariff measures have unsettled trade flows. Pretoria has responded by accelerating efforts to diversify its partnerships, turning to Asian and emerging-market players to reduce reliance on Washington.

The moves underscore the country’s growing influence in the African auto sector and its strategic role within BRICS trade dynamics.

Leapmotor, LDV and Tata Motors eye African expansion

Chinese new-energy vehicle (NEV) brand Leapmotor is preparing to enter the South African market in September 2025, marking a significant milestone for the Stellantis-backed company.

The company will debut the C10 extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) at select Stellantis NV dealerships, with additional models expected next year.

Stellantis, Europe’s second-largest automaker, holds a 20% stake in Leapmotor and will provide its established sales infrastructure to support the brand’s regional rollout.

The C10 follows Leapmotor’s successful debut in Mauritius, with the company reporting record-breaking deliveries of 48,006 vehicles in June, marking its second consecutive month of record sales.

With its focus on electric vehicles, Leapmotor will cater to South Africa’s growing demand for sustainable mobility.

Mike Whitfield, managing director of Stellantis South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa noted, “South Africa offers the right combination of infrastructure, consumer demand, and regional connectivity to grow EV adoption,”

Meanwhile, LDV, a sub-brand of China’s SAIC Motor Corporation, is preparing to launch its new Terron 9 bakkie at the Festival of Motoring at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit from August 28 to 31, 2025. The large pickup aims to compete in South Africa’s premium segment alongside models like the Ford Ranger Wildtrak and GWM P500.

Since its South African debut last year, LDV has primarily focused on the T60 midsize bakkie for private households. Bevan Nel, CEO of LDV South Africa, described the Terron 9 as the brand’s flagship vehicle for the market,

“Exciting times are near as we prepare to launch the Terron 9 at the end of August, starting off with an exclusive sneak peek, we are excited to bring this powerhouse to the South African market.” He said.

India’s Tata Motors is also making a strategic return to South Africa’s passenger vehicle market, targeting SUVs, crossovers, and hatchbacks.

According to CarMag, The automaker had stopped exporting cars to the African market in 2017-18, but has now partnered with Motus Holdings Ltd, South Africa’s leading passenger vehicle retailer, to distribute its vehicles.

The company plans a launch event on August 19, 2025, highlighting both sales and local value creation, including employment across service, parts distribution, and technician training.

“South Africa is an important market in our global expansion journey,” Yash Khandelwal, head of International Business at Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles said.

“With our class-leading products and a reputed partner in Motus, we are here to offer our South African customers a choice of vehicles that are safe, stylish, and innovation-driven.” He added.

The convergence of these launches underscores South Africa’s growing role as Africa’s automotive and EV hub, bolstered by BRICS partnerships with China and India.

The country’s established dealership networks, manufacturing capabilities, and consumer base make it a launchpad for new-energy and mass-market vehicles across the continent.

Analysts suggest that South Africa’s influence in automotive trade will only increase as more BRICS-based manufacturers view the country as a gateway to Sub-Saharan markets.

With Leapmotor, LDV, and Tata Motors expanding their footprints, South Africa is positioning itself as the “Silicon Valley of African autos”, setting the stage for increased regional competition, technology transfer, and employment opportunities.

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