Chinese brand BAIC has unveiled a bigger and more luxurious SUV model. Here’s all you need to know about the new BAIC BJ60.
The BAIC brand has been present for some time and there’s even a factory here in SA, churning out compact products, but you don’t see many of them on the roads nor do you see a growing dealership footprint. It’s odd, considering the rampant success of fellow countrymen Haval and Chery. Our only taste of BAIC locally was the launch of the B40 Plus, an interestingly styled and capable SUV offering.
What you see here is BAIC’s latest offering, a 7-seater offroad-ready SUV. The front is very Jeep-like, strapped to a body-on-frame chassis. At over 5 metres long and with a wheelbase of 2.8 metres, this is no compact offering and we reckon its about the same sort of size as the current Toyota Land Cruiser LC300. The model shown here features large 20-inch alloy wheels.
The cabin of the BJ60 looks upmarket, with an abundance of features, with white leather. The dashboard features a digital instrument setup and there’s a 12-inch infotainment touchscreen dominating the central column. Other noteworthy luxury features include a heads-up display, quality audio system, panoramic sunroof, and heated seats.
Now this is where it gets interesting, as there’s very little detail on the engine and transmission. It’s said the BAIC BJ60 is powered by a hybrid powertrain that has a total range of 1000 km and capable of hitting 100 kph in 6 seconds. We’re guessing there’s either a 4- or 6-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine under the hood, paired to an electric motor located on one of the axles. Some have said the new BAIC BJ60 will feature all-wheel drive and have offroad features like diff locks and 4×4 modes.
We’ll update this article if we hear anything from BAIC South Africa in terms of availability. We do recall at the presentation of the smaller B40 Plus that the brand is keen to expand its portfolio and given the success of products like the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro and Haval H6, this could prove a solid offering.
Mercedes-Benz is due to unveil an all-new GLC compact SUV on June 1 2022 and the German firm has released a teaser image showing its rear design.
The GLC has proven to be hugely successful for Mercedes-Benz and with an all-new model on the verge of reveal, the Stuttgart-based firm will look to build on the success of its predecessors.
The single teaser image you see above shows the shadowy rear end of the new GLC showcasing a sleek rear taillight design and rounded body surfaces. With some minor digital manipulation, the image reveals the GLC’s rear-end more clearly.
As part of this latest teaser campaign, Mercedes-Benz states that the new GLC “combines an expressive, sporty design with a luxurious interior” while also offering “excellent off-road properties thanks to the standard-fit 4MATIC all-wheel drive and special driving programmes”.
Importantly though, the new GLC range will also feature plug-in hybrid (PHEV) technology with an electric driving range exceeding 100 kilometres.
As the GLC is based on the new C-Class, which is built right here in East London, South Africa, it’s expected to share its powertrains which will include both mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid options. The AMG-fettled GLC derivatives are expected to follow after the reveal of the new GLC range.
The new GLC is also expected to be physically larger than the outgoing model and this should bode well for improved interior space for both passengers and load carrying ability.
We will update this article as soon as official details for the new GLC are revealed, so stay tuned!
BMW X2 M35i Edition GoldPlay (2022): Price & Specs
Prefer your BMW X2 M35i with not-so-subtle Galvanic Gold highlights and a smattering of extra kit? Step this way to meet the X2 Edition GoldPlay, which is now available to order in South Africa…
BMW South Africa has quietly added a new special-edition version of the X2 to its local configurator, with the Edition GoldPlay package exclusively available in M35i guise.
According to the Munich-based firm’s local website, the X2 M35i Edition GoldPlay commands a R20 000 premium over the derivative on which it’s based, which takes the starting price to R960 481 (though the configurator currently forces the selection of the otherwise optional Navigation Plus and Remote Services – likely related to the semiconductor shortage – thus pushing the total to R986 937).
So, what do you get for the extra R20 000? Well, the most obvious addition is the Galvanic Gold foil wrapping along the X2’s flanks, which BMW promises will attract “maximum attention on any road”. This vivid hue is repeated on the kidney grille surround and side-mirror caps, as well as on sections of the likewise-included 20-inch M aerodynamic wheels.
In South Africa, these highlights can be combined with a choice of seven exterior paint colours, including two extra-cost options. If you’re a local rugby fan, we wouldn’t blame you for selecting Sanremo Green metallic – a hue reserved for this special edition – as you’d end up with an X2 effectively sporting Springbok colours, as pictured above.
However, opt for Frozen Pure Grey metallic (adding R33 400 to the bill, we should point out) and those bold decals and Galvanic Gold accents for the grille and mirror caps are automatically deleted. The grille surround is instead finished in black and the side-mirror housings gain a body colour finish, making for a far subtler package.
Choose Frozen Pure Grey metallic paint and many of the gold highlights are deleted. Far subtler, right?
Inside, you’ll find M sport seats trimmed in Dakota leather. The black leather surfaces of the driver and front passenger seat are perforated through the centre section of the backrests, while contrast stitching and piping in Giallo Oro add a splash of colour. The M sport seats furthermore feature a high-gloss black border for the cut-out below the head restraints and an M logo on the backrest piping.
Other additions include gold-coloured contrast stitching for the instrument panel and centre console, as well as door-sill strips featuring “Edition” lettering in Galvanic Gold. Dark Graphite matte trim strips, meanwhile, are added to the dashboard on the passenger side.
The powertrain is untouched, of course, which means the turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine still offers 225 kW and 450 Nm to all four corners via an 8-speed automatic transmission. The 0-100 kph sprint takes a claimed 4.9 seconds, with top speed pegged at 250 kph.
How much does the BMW X2 M35i Edition GoldPlay cost in SA?
BMW X2 M35i Edition GoldPlay – R960 481
The BMW X2 M35i Edition GoldPlay ships with a 2-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.
Further Fuel Price Pain for June 2022
Data from the Central Energy Fund has suggested that motorists are going to suffer further fuel price increases for the month of June 2022.
Motorists have to tighten their belts yet again as the Central Energy Fund (CEF) is predicting further petrol and diesel price increases for the month of June 2022.
As it stands, petrol is expected to increase by between R1.93 and R1.97 a litre, diesel is expected to increase by between R1.60 and R1.62 a litre, and illuminating paraffin is expected to climb by a whopping R2.14 a litre.
Despite the government’s R1.50 relaxation of the GFL (General Fuel Levy) to try take the sting out of increases, this has not really helped and this relief ends this month.
“In late March government reduced the GFL by R1.50 for April and May which brought temporary relief to consumers. The big question now is how government plans to deal with rising fuel costs from June onwards, especially given that baseline prices are forecast to move significantly upwards in June. Based on current, unaudited data from the CEF petrol,” notes the AA.
“The two main factors which influence local fuel prices are the R/US dollar exchange rate and international oil prices. The Rand is currently trading weaker against the dollar and oil prices are also still high. Given this, the outlook for June’s fuel prices does not look positive,” says the AA.
2022 Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 ePerformance Announced
The Porsche 718 GT4 ePerformance gives us a taste of the all-electric Cayman production model which is due in 2025.
What you see here is not one of the many flat-6 petrol-powered Porsche race machines, but rather a dual-motor electric-powered all-wheel drive racing prototype. This vehicle is a testbed for a potential future one-make racing series as well as the eventual all-electric Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman production road cars that are due in a few years.
Remember the striking Porsche Mission R concept? This builds on that and the performance numbers are staggering. There’s 1073 hp / 800 kW, but power is detuned to 735 kW for qualifying, while actual race pace is rated at 450 kW. Porsche claims its new electrified GT4 offers similar lap times to that of the petrol-powered 911 GT3 Cup car.
Electric performance tends to result in vehicles needing to be charged quickly, but Porsche says its newcomer has 900 volt charging capability, meaning you can get from 5% to 80% in just 15 minutes. There’s no word on how the battery capacity or how long it will last in longevity, but its a fascinating look at the future of performance electric motoring.
Under the skin, its essentially based on the standard GT4 Clubsport, but features plenty of parts which have been designed specifically for this ePerformance version. The bodywork has been made from natural fibre composite materials and the trick Michelin racing tyres are made from recycled rubber.
Porsche is going on a big marketing tour with this vehicle that will go from Europe, US and ends in Asia in 2024. It will also feature in public events like the Good Festival of Speed in June 2022. By the time it is retired, the all-electric Cayman and Boxster should be revealed.
BMW’s all-new 2 Series Coupe recently arrived in South Africa and while much praise has been heaped on the 3.0-litre inline-6-engined M240i xDrive, we tasked Gero Lilleike to weigh up the pros and cons of the range-topper’s more accessible 4-cylinder 220i sibling. Does it offer enough driver engagement – let’s call it “fizz” – to justify its price tag? Let’s take a closer look!
We like: Dynamic handling ability, kerb appeal, robust interior
We don’t like: It would benefit from the 230i’s extra poke, pricey
The new 2 Series Coupe retains its rear-wheel-drive layout, but has a larger overall footprint than its predecessor.
Like its predecessor, the 2 Series Coupe appeals greatly to BMW enthusiasts because it incorporates many of the ingredients that made the Bavarian brand’s two-door 3 Series variants from the Eighties and Nineties so popular and revered: stout styling, a road-hugging stance, a rear-wheel-drive configuration and engaging dynamics. As such, the BMW 2 Series has been an attractive package for buyers looking for a capable driver’s car with a whack of style to keep the ol’ ego fluffed. It’s a recipe that worked for the 1 Series Coupe and previous-gen 2 Series and it’s no surprise that the Bavarian brand has followed the recipe for the latest iteration of the 2 Series Coupe, albeit with some notable improvements.
These key attributes of the 2 Series Coupe reach their zenith in the range’s high-performance derivatives, such as the much-lauded M2 Coupe (a new M2 Coupe is in development) and to a lesser degree, the current range-topping M240i xDrive, on which all-wheel drive made its debut in the compact sportscar range.
However, what if your budget can’t stretch beyond R1-million for the M240i xDrive? Is it worth considering the 220i, which comes standard with the M Sport package? Does it offer enough performance to justify its purchase price of R772 590, before options? This review aims to provide some answers to these questions and will, hopefully, help you make an informed buying decision.
How the BMW 2 Series Coupe performs in terms of…
Kerb Appeal
The front 3-quarter view of the G42-generation 2 Series Coupe is its most pleasing aspect, most onlookers say.
Let’s be honest, as a prospective purchase, the 2 Series Coupe is a heart-over-head kind of car… Suffice to say, kerb appeal will play a pivotal role in a potential buyer’s decision, especially if they’re considering a sportscar. Styling is subjective and, considering the recent spate of controversial exterior designs BMW has foisted on us, the 220i drew a mix of positive and negative feedback. However, the test team mostly liked the coupe’s looks; BMW’s design team was perhaps wise to leave the firm’s oversize kidney grille in the pantry for the G42-generation model. Note that the “conventional” kidney grille features active slats that open and close depending on the engine’s cooling requirements.
While the front-end certainly looks purposeful (handsome, even), the rear-end styling proves more divisive. The combination of the new taillight design and oddly-angled rear bumper and diffuser may take some time to get used to. We like that the door handles now sit flush with the bodywork – they make the flanks look sleeker. Despite all the criticism lobbed at BMW, we think the German firm has done enough to bring fresh design appeal to the 2 Series Coupe. Do you agree?
This test unit that was dispatched to our office wore Brooklyn Grey metallic paintwork. Courtesy of its M Sport package, the Bimmer looks decisively purposeful with its 19-inch double-spoke, light-alloy wheels (shod with low profile rubber) that fill the wheel arches nicely, while the subtle M fender badges, M Aerodynamic kit and BMW Individual High-Gloss Shadow Line add further visual appeal to the overall package.
Interior execution and features
The interior is enhanced with M-themed door cards that add colourful character to the cabin.
Inside, you are met with a familiar BMW cabin environment that’s enhanced with some M Sport detailing such as a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel and Aluminium Tetragon trim finishers, but the major visual interior highlight is the M-coloured door cards that look especially impressive at night. Not only do they lift the cabin ambience appreciably, but they also add an element of razzmatazz to an otherwise dark-themed cabin.
The sports seats are well-bolstered and specced in a combination of Alcantara and black Sensatec (synthetic leather) with blue contrast stitching. As far as onboard tech is concerned, the large digital instrument cluster can be configured using the mounted steering-wheel controls, while the easily-legible infotainment touchscreen offers not only Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capability, but integrated navigation, Bluetooth telephony and access to the vehicle’s system settings.
Apart from the iDrive controller knob, the centre console houses an array of soft-touch buttons (located to the right of the stubby transmission lever) with which to toggle between drive modes; they include Sport (for dynamic driving situations), Comfort (for general driving, it prioritises ride- and steering comfort) and Eco Pro (to maximise efficiency).
Rear passenger legroom is tight, but the seats can fold down to create extra loading space.
The 2 Series Coupe is a compact 2-door car, so while the front occupants are seated in comfort, rear passengers will find leg- and headroom decidedly tight. To gain access to the rear bench (technically a pair of single seats), you need to pull a lever atop a front seat and slide its backrest forward. BMW claims a boot capacity of 390 litres, which is fairly useable, plus the rear seats can also be folded down (in a 60:40 split configuration) should you need to load longer items.
The 220i’s standard safety specification includes, but is not limited to, 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, brake assist and Electronic Stability Control with traction control.
Overall, the BMW’s interior fit-and-finish is good, with a level of perceived quality that you would expect from a premium product in this price range, but, even so, how does the 220i fare as a driver’s car?
Performance and Efficiency
The 220i’s powerplant will leave enthusiasts wanting more, but it should satisfy most buyers.
Beneath the 220i’s shapely bonnet lies BMW’s 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbopetrol engine that produces 135 kW and 300 Nm of torque; the motor drives the rear wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Look, those headline numbers aren’t going to result in urgent performance (by contemporary standards) – not in a car with a kerb weight of 1.5 tonnes, anyway – but that’s not really what the 220i’s all about. This li’l coupe likes to gather momentum in a smooth, refined manner – the transmission is particularly well-calibrated with the engine’s characteristics. So while the derivative might not offer enough grunt to excite hot- or hyper hatchback enthusiasts, it may suit those who have grown weary of such “hard-edged” machinery. BMW claims a zero-to-100 kph sprint time of 7.5 seconds for the 220i and while there is some discernable turbo lag (as one would expect), it doesn’t ruin the overall driving experience.
With the Sport drive mode engaged, the 220i feels more responsive to throttle inputs and its transmission shifts with greater verve, but even so, it all happens without much drama; the dual exhaust tips’ soundtrack is nothing special either.
The 2 Series Coupe’s rear styling is divisive but its rear-wheel-drive prowess remains.
Still, you can access greater driver engagement by using the BMW’s steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles to actuate manual shifts; the transmission is quite capable of extracting maximum poke from the engine, but the 8-speed ZF ‘box will shift obediently if you need it to. We drove the 220i M Sport on some twisty Cape roads and it served up a fair amount of driving enjoyment thanks to its sorted chassis and sharp steering, but more about the “ride and handling” later…
For those who’ll use the 220i on the daily commute (the majority of buyers), the powertrain delivers relatively strong acceleration from about 70-120kph, which, of course, is useful for executing quick overtaking manoeuvres on the freeway.
As for efficiency, BMW claims an average consumption of 6.3 L/100 km. During our test period, the test unit returned figures of around 7.8 L/100 km, which was not disappointing – considering most of us treated the 220i as a sportscar.
Handling Ability and Ride Quality
The 2 Series Coupe delivers sharp and engaging dynamic handling ability.
Perhaps the most impressive aspect of the new-generation 2 Series Coupe is its dynamic ability; yes, even in base 220i M Sport guise. Unlike the 2 Series Gran Coupe, the newcomer shares its (CLAR) underpinnings with its larger 3 Series sedan sibling – not only is it larger than its predecessor, with wider front (+55mm) and rear (+31 mm) tracks, as well as a longer wheelbase (+51 mm), it also sits some 28 mm lower to the road.
Those seemingly incremental changes have made a considerable difference to the 2 Series Coupe’s dynamism, however. The steering response is prompt and sharp, which means the 220i can be utilised to slice and dice corners with utter confidence. Directional changes are near-effortless with minimal body roll. The “G42” feels taut and composed, yet quite wieldy when required. There is also something to be said for not having to urgently rein in your machine at every turn…
Meanwhile, the new 2 Series Coupe is flattered by its M Sports Suspension, which forms part of the (to reiterate, standard) M Sport package. This non-adaptive suspension setup has a moderately higher spring constant and harder stabilisers, but although the ride quality is on the firm side, it’s not so hard as to compromise everyday driving comfort. In fact, the 220i strikes a near-perfect ride/handling balance by blending heightened handling dynamics and with easy daily usability.
Price and after-sales support
The BMW 220i M Sport is priced from R772 590 and is sold with a 2-year/unlimited km warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.
The 2 Series chassis delivers fine driving pleasure, but this 220i lacks the engine punch to realise its full potential.
This new 2 Series Coupe is a significantly more resolved product than its predecessor and, as far as driver engagement is concerned, BMW has hit the nail on the head with the model’s pin-sharp steering and dynamic handling ability. With that said, we know the 220i’s chassis can handle a lot more power/torque, which, apart from the lofty price tag, is the biggest drawback of this particular package. If you love the look of the new BMW 2 Series, but can’t afford the M240i xDrive, then the 220i M Sport offers enough kerb appeal and interior comfort to keep you satisfied with your “luxury compact coupe”; you will enjoy how effortlessly agile-yet-planted it feels to drive, even if it’s a fleet-footed, as opposed to quick, car.
It’s unfortunate that BMW doesn’t offer the 230i locally, because the feistier 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbopetrol engine’s 180 kW or 190 kW (it depends on the market) and 400 Nm will certainly facilitate greater driving thrills. In its absence, buyers have to consider the torquey 220d with its 140 kW/400 Nm 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine, which will deliver more long-legged performance and (probably) better fuel consumption. The 220d is priced from R819 706, before options.
This 220i M Sport is a pricey proposition considering the relatively workmanlike performance its powertrain offers. Its enviable ride/handling balance largely makes up for it – if you just want an eye-catching small coupe, it’s a solid proposition. However, for R100k more, the 228 kW/380 Nm Audi TT S quattro (R876 500) is also worth a closer look, or even better, if you don’t mind going the second-hand route, you’re likely to find more “bang for your buck” in the used car market.
The compact crossover from Lexus has received a mild update for 2022. Here’s what you need to know about the MY23 Lexus UX.
The Lexus UX made its debut back in 2018 and since then, more than 240 000 units have been sold in over 80 markets. In SA, the Lexus UX has been the brand’s best seller.
Now, for 2022, the Lexus UX has been given updates. Under the skin, the the structural rigidity has been improved, with electric power steering and shock absorbers revised. There are new 18-inch run-flat tyres that are said to offer a quieter ride experience. For the F Sport model, performance dampers will be standard.
Lexus has also enhanced its advanced safety system offering, with luxuries like pre-collision braking. There’s a new infotainment system with a larger and higher-res touch screen display. USB-C connectivity, Android Auto, Apple Carplay are fitted as standard. There’s also a new digital key functionality, which allows customers to open the vehicle with their smartphone.
As always, the standard features of the Lexus UX are generous and there are no options and Lexus SA has confirmed what the South Africa-spec models will feature. “We will continue to further the personalised customer experience by updating our multimedia systems through OTA (Over the Air) software updates. In addition, the shapes and switch layout of the instrument panel and console area have been optimised in accordance with the use of the touch-screen display, and two new charging USB connectors (Type-C) have been added to the front of the console for improved usability.”
You’ll be able to spot the new Lexus UX model with its revised front end, tweaked headlights and rear combination lamps. There are new exterior and interior colours.
BMW has released images of the camouflaged XM undergoing final testing, while also revealing the production model’s peak outputs. The bad news is it makes less power and torque than the crazy concept that preceded it … for now, anyway.
Remember the BMW Concept XM revealed late in 2021? Well, the Munich-based firm has announced the production version’s peak power and torque figures, which are interestingly 70 kW and 200 Nm lower than those of the concept.
Yes, while the show car’s electrified V8 boasted a whopping 550 kW and 1 000 Nm, the production model – which will be the M division’s second standalone model after the M1 of the late 1970s – will settle for maximum outputs of 480 kW and 800 Nm. However, there’s always the possibility BMW M will unleash a more powerful version down the line.
Regardless, those are heady peaks (outpunching the new M60i version of the related and updated X7, for example) and will no doubt endow the initial version of the hefty SUV with a supercar-rivalling 0-100 kph time.
As a reminder, drive comes from what BMW describes as a “newly developed” V8 petrol engine, which is assisted by an electric motor. The German company claims the XM will benefit from an all-electric range of “around 80 km” on the WLTP cycle. Power is transferred to the road courtesy of BMW’s first hybrid-specific M xDrive four-wheel-drive system (complete with an electronically controlled differential lock in the rear axle transmission), which the automaker bills as “extremely spontaneous”.
BMW says the XM features “almost perfect” 50:50 axle-load distribution, with adaptive M Professional suspension set to ship standard. The latter furthermore includes an electromechanical roll stabilising system with 48-volt technology, a first for an M product. Expect a model-specific M braking system to be part of the package as well, along with lightweight alloy wheels measuring up to 23 inches in diameter.
Of course, BMW is currently celebrating its 50th anniversary, with models such as the M3 Touring and M4 CSL (and possibly even a Hommage version of the latter) also scheduled to be revealed in 2022. Expect to see the production version of the XM towards the end of the year, with the first units set to roll off the assembly line at the firm’s Spartanburg plant in the United States in December.
“With the debut of the BMW XM at the end of our anniversary year, we are looking into the future, where BMW M will continue to break with conventions and push boundaries,” said Franciscus van Meel, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW M GmbH.
“Electrification gives us new opportunities to demonstrate that unmistakable M feeling in a fascinating way and transfer it to the road. Regardless of their drive technology, our performance and high-performance cars will continue to possess an unmistakable and authentic M character in the future.”
Here’s what it’s like to watch Formula E in Monaco – Pit lane visit + grid walk!
We were invited by Nissan to see what a Formula E race is like. Ciro De Siena packed his bags and reports back.
Monaco. A living, breathing postcard; a tiny kingdom nestled between France and Italy and famous for its relaxed attitude to tax, drawing in the rich and famous from around the world.
But for petrolheads, Monaco is famous for one thing: motorsport. Formula E is now in its 8th year, and working with the Monaco Automobile Association, the FIA negotiated to use exactly the same circuit and setup that is built for Formula 1. The incredible transformation from city to racetrack takes two weeks, and then everything is left in place for a month, first hosting the Formula E and then 4 weeks later, the Formula 1.
We were invited by the Nissan Formula E team to experience Monaco in person, and we sent our video guy Ciro De Siena, who packed his vlogging gear and produced this film for us.
Excitingly, Formula E is about to become very real for South Africans, as a street circuit in Cape Town has been confirmed for early 2023.
While on the trip, the top brass at Nissan let Ciro in on a few secrets with regards to what is coming to the SA market from the brand in the near future. While we are sworn to secrecy for now, keep your eyes on Cars.co.za for more developments in the coming months.
Let us know what you think of Formula E in the comments below.
How Fast Are EV and Hybrid Sales Growing in South Africa?
The number of electrified vehicles on the market in South Africa is slowly increasing. So, what impact has this had on sales volumes? Let’s take a closer look at the figures…
Sales of electrified cars in Europe increased a hefty 66% year on year in 2021, accounting for nearly a fifth of all new vehicles sold on the continent. This increase was, of course, driven by a surge in choice in that market (a phenomenon in turn propelled by tightening emissions regulations).
What about South Africa? Though the number of fully electric vehicles (EVs), plug-in hybrids and full hybrids available locally right now remains a relatively modest one (by international standards, at least), there are certainly a few more options than in years gone by.
So, are South Africans buying these so-called “new energy vehicles”? Well, according to Naamsa, sales of electrified vehicles in SA grew to 896 units in 2021, up from 324 units the year before (equating to a heady increase of 176%, though admittedly off a low base thanks in part to contracted overall sales in 2020). Still, that means electrified vehicles accounted for a mere 0.19% of the total new-vehicle market last year.
Predictably, full (i.e., those without a plug) hybrids achieved the highest volume of the three forms of electrified vehicles, accounting for 627 of the 896 units registered in 2021. The late-2021 launch of Toyota’s locally built Corolla Cross range – which includes a pair of hybrid derivatives – as well as the rolling out of hybrid versions of the Corolla Sedan and RAV4 earlier last year likely had much to do with that.
Somewhat surprisingly, EVs (218 units) actually outsold plug-in hybrids (51 units) by more than four to one in 2021, with the former figure up from 92 units in 2020 and the latter figure down from 77 units in 2020, according to Naamsa.
What sort of EV and hybrid growth will we see in 2022?
Still, despite this 137% year-on-year sales growth of EVs in South Africa, there are virtually no affordable battery-powered cars on the market at the moment. While volumes are likely to increase somewhat again in 2022 simply thanks to the presence of more EVs on the market, sales have no chance of surging until there are affordable options. Right now, the least expensive EV is the Cooper SE (R709 400), with every other example stretching well into seven figures.
Hybrid sales, however, should continue to climb strongly this year as a few more options hit the local market and sales of dual-powered Corolla Cross, Corolla Sedan and RAV4 models pick up pace. The final annual figure will, however, likely be tempered by the fact Toyota has had to halt production at its Prospecton facility – where the aforementioned Corolla Cross is built – due to severe damage caused by the KwaZulu-Natal floods.
