Despite the prospect of easing fuel prices, the unprecedented pressure felt by South Africans at the pumps has triggered a significant shift in car buying patterns locally, with motorists actively seeking options that future-proof their mobility choice. This is reflected in data from naamsa | The Automotive Business Council, which reports that battery-electric vehicle (BEV) sales nearly doubled in the first quarter of 2026 compared to last year, while plug-in hybrid (PHEV) sales surged by a staggering 430% – an encouraging sign of organic growth, spurred by consumer choice despite the absence of government incentives.
As demand intensifies, many local dealerships are working around the clock to secure stock and keep up with a sudden influx of highly motivated buyers. Yet, behind this boom lies what might seem to be a paradox. It’s no secret that the traditional automotive retail model has relied on the service department to augment sales revenue. However, New Energy Vehicles (NEVs)…
