Johannesburg, 22 October 2025 – JAC Motors South Africa recently celebrated an important milestone as it welcomed a high-level delegation from JAC Motors International, headquartered in Hefei, Anhui Province, China. The visit highlighted eight years of local trading success and provided an opportunity to discuss the brand’s expanding presence in the South African market, particularly in the new energy vehicle (NEV) sector.
Since its South African debut in 2017, JAC Motors has emerged as the market leader in battery-electric trucks, serving major corporate customers including Eskom, Takealot, DSV, Adcock Ingram, Interwaste, DP World, and Blue Ribbon Bakeries. The company has been instrumental in providing sustainable, green-energy transport solutions across a variety of industries.
In China, JAC Motors continues to innovate alongside battery manufacturer CATL and subsidiary EVOGO. The group recently completed the first integrated battery swap test for commercial vehicles using its new Choco-SEB system, achieving a full battery replacement in under three minutes—a breakthrough that promises rapid energy replenishment and substantial cost savings for fleet operators.
During the South African visit, Mr Oscar Yu, General Manager of JAC Motors International, and Mr Jerry Zhou, GM of Asia-Africa Sales, praised the local subsidiary’s role in advancing the brand’s global right-hand-drive strategy. They underscored how JAC Motors South Africa has leveraged the growth of the NEV market, cementing its significance within the company’s worldwide operations.
“We are proud and excited about JAC Motors South Africa’s remarkable journey over the past eight years,” said Mr Yu. “Starting with a single product and ten dealers, the company now offers a full range of lifestyle bakkies, light- and heavy-duty commercial vehicles, and more than 8,500 units on the road. Today, it leads South Africa’s Electric Commercial Vehicle market.”
2025 has been a record-breaking year for JAC Motors South Africa, with year-to-date sales up more than 50%. The local line-up is set to expand with the introduction of the new T6 single-cab, featuring a fuel-efficient 2.0L turbo-diesel engine, alongside the recently launched T9 Hunter and the upcoming T9 PHEV bakkie.
Looking ahead to 2026, the company will introduce the JS9 seven-seater SUV in 4×2 and 4×4 versions, with the 4×4 model featuring a low-range transfer case. Built on the popular T9 ladder-frame platform, the JS9 blends luxury, space, and a car-like driving experience. Additionally, JAC Motors plans to unveil a next-generation 8-tonne battery-electric truck.
“Our discussions focused on building upon eight years of achievements and preparing our dealer network for the evolving automotive landscape,” said Karl-Heinz Göbel, CEO of JAC Motors South Africa. “In this highly competitive market, customers are indeed spoilt for choice.”
Beyond commercial vehicles, JAC Motors South Africa plans to expand its SUV range in 2026 to include mid-sized SUVs and passenger cars, initially targeting right-hand-drive markets before introducing them locally in 2027.
JAC Motors South Africa operates an extensive dealer network of over 70 outlets across Southern Africa—including Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Lesotho, Eswatini, Malawi, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique—ensuring consistent after-sales service and a positive customer experience throughout the region.
Founded 61 years ago in China, JAC Motors now offers a comprehensive portfolio of passenger cars, pick-ups, and trucks for both left- and right-hand-drive markets. With operations in over 130 countries, the company maintains strategic partnerships across multiple automotive sectors.
“Our growth over the past eight years reflects the dedication of our customers, dealer network, head-office staff, and JAC Motors International,” concludes Göbel. “As we look to the future, we are committed to strengthening relationships and delivering sustainable mobility solutions across Southern Africa.”
For more information, visit www.jacmotors.co.za.
