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
Stellantis South Africa has announced the appointment of Alex Shahini as Brand Communications Manager for Alfa Romeo, Jeep and Leapmotor.
Alex will lead media strategy, content development and engagement for these brands, supporting Stellantis’s growth ambitions in the region.
This appointment comes as Stellantis strengthens its presence in South Africa following the introduction of Leapmotor and continued expansion of its premium and electrified portfolio. Alex will work closely with Janus Janse van Rensburg, Head of Product & Marketing, to drive brand visibility and ensure consistent messaging across all channels.
With extensive experience in automotive media and digital communications, Shahini brings a strong understanding of the local market and global trends.
His background includes editorial leadership roles and motorsport involvement, equipping him to deliver impactful storytelling and brand positioning.
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.