Chery names its first bakkie Grootman
Chery has named its first bakkie for South Africa Grootman, a name chosen by South Africans. The model is planned to make its local debut in the first quarter of 2027.
- Product News
- 2 October 2026
JLR South Africa announced the appointment of Izak Louw (photo) to the position of Communications Manager for the South Africa and sub-Sahara Africa (SSA) markets.
A seasoned professional with extensive experience in marketing, public relations and product management within the automotive industry, Louw will head up PR and Communications for JLR South Africa.
A true automotive enthusiast, some of his career highlights include managing the SA Land Speed Record project in 2015 as well as curating some of the most memorable market-specific limited edition JLR models, including bespoke Range Rovers and Jaguars.
Carmen Slade, Communications and Client Experience Director, JLR South Africa and sub-Sahara Africa: “Izak’s appointment not only strengthens the PR and Communications function, but it also brings continuity, leveraging his 13-year tenure at JLR, with a strong track record of delivering successful product launches and managing comprehensive PR strategies.
“Izak will work closely with his colleagues and external stakeholders to advance JLR’s position as a leading global luxury brand.”
His appointment to his new position is effective immediately.
Netcare Diagnostics (a Netcare Group business) is introducing its first fully electric vehicles to its transport fleet, starting with shorter urban routes for collecting patient pathology specimens.
South Africa’s new vehicle market recorded aggregate domestic sales of 61 645 units in September 2026, an increase of 12.7% compared with the 54 706 units sold during September 2025.
SA Auto Week 2026 is scheduled to take place in eThekwini, KwaZulu-Natal, from 13 to 16 October, with the event marking five years of SA Auto Week.