logo
BMW grabs 40% share of South Africa's luxury car market in Q1

BMW grabs 40% share of South Africa's luxury car market in Q1

Zawya30-04-2025
Statistics from the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa) reveal BMW achieved a 40.6% share of the luxury segment during Q1 2025, outperforming traditional competitors.
This success is amplified by Mini achieving a 6.2% market share, and BMW Motorrad attaining a 43.9% overall market share. Mini's product lineup was aided by the recent introduction of the new Mini Aceman and the Mini John Cooper Works.
Enhanced production capacity to meet global demand
BMW said part of its success in 2025 Q1 is due to the enthusiastic market reception of the new BMW X3.
A key driver of this success is the enthusiastic market reception of the new BMW X3. Fuelled by global demand and its pivotal role in the BMW Group's electrification strategy, production of the fourth-generation BMW X3 began in October 2024 at BMW Group Plant Rosslyn. Before its market introduction, the new BMW X3 achieved a high volume of pre-orders, indicating strong customer resonance.
The production of the new BMW X3 has been supported by the reimplementation of the third shift at BMW Group Plant Rosslyn. This three-shift operation is projected to produce an average of 110 units per shift. This long-term commitment to electrification is evidenced by the BMW Group's global delivery of over two million electrified vehicles by 2024, including over one million battery electric vehicles (BEVs).
Peter van Binsbergen, CEO of BMW Group South Africa, commented:
'We are grateful for the continued trust and enthusiasm our South African customers and global partners have shown in the BMW Group, supported by our retailer network's firm commitment.
'Our strong Q1 results, marked by clear segment leadership for BMW and positive momentum across Mini and BMW Motorrad, reflect the compelling appeal of our diverse product range and the passion of our team.
'We are inspired by these achievements and remain focused on delivering quality and contributing to a thriving automotive future in South Africa and beyond.'
Syndigate.info).
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Best photos of August 8: Bristol balloon fiesta to Nagasaki anniversary
Best photos of August 8: Bristol balloon fiesta to Nagasaki anniversary

The National

time3 days ago

  • The National

Best photos of August 8: Bristol balloon fiesta to Nagasaki anniversary

If 2008 was the year that rocked Detroit, 2019 will be when Motor City gives its annual car extravaganza a revamp that aims to move with the times. A major change is that this week's North American International Auto Show will be the last to be held in January, after which the event will switch to June. The new date, organisers said, will allow exhibitors to move vehicles and activities outside the Cobo Center's halls and into other city venues, unencumbered by cold January weather, exemplified this week by snow and ice. In a market in which trends can easily be outpaced beyond one event, the need to do so was probably exacerbated by the decision of Germany's big three carmakers – BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Audi – to skip the auto show this year. The show has long allowed car enthusiasts to sit behind the wheel of the latest models at the start of the calendar year but a more fluid car market in an online world has made sales less seasonal. Similarly, everyday technology seems to be catching up on those whose job it is to get behind microphones and try and tempt the visiting public into making a purchase. Although sparkly announcers clasp iPads and outline the technical gadgetry hidden beneath bonnets, people's obsession with their own smartphones often appeared to offer a more tempting distraction. 'It's maddening,' said one such worker at Nissan's stand. The absence of some pizzazz, as well as top marques, was also noted by patrons. 'It looks like there are a few less cars this year,' one annual attendee said of this year's exhibitors. 'I can't help but think it's easier to stay at home than to brave the snow and come here.'

Rand Gains as Gold Prices Rise Amid U.S. Tariff Impact
Rand Gains as Gold Prices Rise Amid U.S. Tariff Impact

Arabian Post

time4 days ago

  • Arabian Post

Rand Gains as Gold Prices Rise Amid U.S. Tariff Impact

The South African rand strengthened in early Thursday trading, buoyed by an uptick in gold prices and a softer US dollar, following the implementation of steep tariffs by the United States. The commodity-linked currency, which often moves in tandem with the price of gold, saw a brief rally as traders sought refuge in the precious metal amidst economic uncertainty. Investors were particularly focused on the U. S.'s latest tariff impositions, which have created ripples in global markets. Gold, regarded as a safe-haven asset during times of geopolitical and economic volatility, gained momentum as the tariffs raised concerns over trade disruptions. The U. S. action—targeting specific sectors in foreign economies—has led to a weakening of the dollar, further providing support for the rand, which is closely tied to the performance of commodities like gold. The price of gold rose steadily as traders adjusted to the implications of the U. S.'s protective measures. With tensions surrounding international trade, many market participants view gold as a shield against the potential erosion of wealth caused by rising costs and trade barriers. As the dollar softened, gold's attractiveness as a store of value became even more apparent, pushing its value higher and, in turn, benefiting the rand. ADVERTISEMENT Analysts noted that while the rand's movement was primarily dictated by external factors, such as global commodity prices, local developments also played a role in shaping market sentiment. South Africa, a major exporter of precious metals, is highly sensitive to shifts in global commodity prices, with the rand often mirroring fluctuations in gold prices. Any surge in gold often results in a corresponding strengthening of the rand, providing temporary relief for a currency that has faced pressure due to internal economic issues. The U. S. tariffs, which predominantly target sectors in China and other key trading partners, have escalated concerns about the ripple effects on the global supply chain. As these tariffs disrupt trade, they amplify fears of inflationary pressures, especially in economies reliant on imports of key goods and services. The situation has led to a greater focus on commodity-backed currencies, like the rand, which gain when the price of raw materials rises. On the back of the tariff-related uncertainty, other emerging market currencies have also been affected, but the rand's performance is a stark contrast to its peers, supported largely by its strong commodity ties. However, the extent of its strength remains under scrutiny, as analysts caution that any prolonged tensions between the U. S. and its trading partners could reverse the favourable effects of higher gold prices. Looking ahead, South Africa's economy remains vulnerable to global economic shifts. The rand's recovery is still fragile, with external risks continuing to overshadow its positive response to gold's performance. The potential for further tariff hikes or trade disruptions could lead to volatility in both the rand and broader emerging market assets.

South African passport renewals now available in Dubai
South African passport renewals now available in Dubai

What's On

time4 days ago

  • What's On

South African passport renewals now available in Dubai

With over 100,000 South Africans currently residing in the United Arab Emirates, a new South African passport renewals service is a welcome convenience for those looking to update their documents without the hassle of international travel. VFS Global has officially launched passport renewal services for South African passport holders at its Visa Application Centre in Wafi Mall, Dubai. As of July 2025, the company is the sole authorised service partner for the South African Department of Home Affairs in the UAE. This new rollout means applicants no longer need to visit the Consulate General in Dubai. Instead, they can book an appointment at the VFS Global centre or opt to visit the Embassy of South Africa in Abu Dhabi. 'We are excited to be offering passport renewal services for South African nationals living in the UAE,' said Monaz Billimoria, Regional Head of UAE, VFS Global. 'We are confident that applicants will enjoy an enhanced customer experience when they visit us at the world's largest centre here in Dubai.' Here's how it works: Visit Select Apply for Consular Services → Passport Book an appointment Prepare the required documents as per the checklist Head to your appointment for biometric enrolment and to pay the fees Passports are processed in South Africa and returned to the VFS Global centre in Dubai, where they can be collected. Applicants can track their application status online using the reference number provided. Important to note: Apply at least 12 months before your passport expires Avoid making any travel plans until your new passport is in hand Processing takes 8 to 10 weeks, according to the Department of Home Affairs Optional add-on services include form-filling assistance, printing, SMS & email status alerts, and even a Premium Lounge experience for a smoother journey. These are charged separately and do not impact processing times. VFS Global currently handles South Africa passport renewals in four countries via eight centers, and provides visa services in 19 countries. Image: Unsplash > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store