Time is running out for one of South Africa’s biggest employers, with 113,000 jobs at risk

• South Africa risks losing future vehicle production to Asian rivals as global automakers decide where to build the next generation of electric vehicles, despite a new government tax incentive aimed at attracting investment, executives say.
• The automotive industry is a cornerstone of South Africa’s economy, contributing 23.8% of manufacturing output in 2025, directly employing about 113,000 people and supporting a further 498,000 jobs.
• Industry leaders warn the country risks losing future model allocations and investment unless it secures a place in global EV supply chains.