South African New Vehicle Sales Rise 10.4% in October as Exports Recover

what happened

According to Reuters, citing Naamsa, new vehicle sales in South Africa climbed 10.4% year on year in October 2026 to 61,890 units. Domestic sales added 5,839 units compared with October 2025, while exports rose 6.3% to 38,117 units. Exports had been declining since February and were still 8.3% lower over the first ten months of the year.

Passenger cars drove most of the domestic gain, with sales up 13.6% to 45,084 units. Light commercial vehicles rose 2.2% to 13,689 units, and heavy trucks and buses increased 8.1% to 2,347 units. New energy vehicles reached 22,389 units in the first nine months of 2026, 34% above the full-year 2025 total.

The gains come against higher fuel costs. Inland 95-octane petrol reached R30.25 a litre in October. A temporary fuel levy cut took effect on 4 November, but it does not fully offset the earlier price increases. Naamsa said sustained growth depends on purchasing power, predictable policy and better charging infrastructure.

why it matters

For markets, the data offers a read on consumer demand in South Africa under high transport costs. Strong sales despite expensive fuel suggest demand is holding up, while pressure on households and fleet operators remains, a factor for investors in South African assets and the rand.

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