Johannesburg – As Transport Month draws to a close, Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) has capped off the period with a remarkable achievement: five major honours at the 2025 naamsa Accelerator Awards. The recognition reinforces Toyota’s enduring commitment to product excellence, sustainable transformation and meaningful economic contribution within South Africa’s automotive landscape.
Hosted during SA Auto Week at the Coega Vulindlela Conference Centre, the naamsa Accelerator Awards celebrate standout performance and innovation across the mobility sector. Toyota emerged as a dominant force, securing accolades in the following categories: Light Commercial Vehicle of the Year for the Toyota Hilux; Other Commercial Vehicle Achiever of the Year for the Toyota Quantum; New Energy Traditional Hybrid Vehicle of the Year for the Corolla Cross Hybrid; Job Creators – Local Manufacturing OEM; and Youth Empowering – Local Manufacturing OEM.
These achievements underscore Toyota’s deep-rooted dedication to engineering vehicles that match the unique demands of South African consumers while supporting inclusive, long-term socio-economic growth.
The iconic Toyota Hilux, long celebrated as the country’s top-selling bakkie, once again proved its leadership in the light commercial category. Its reputation for durability, versatility and unwavering reliability continues to resonate with drivers from urban commuters to rural workforces, solidifying its place as an essential part of South Africa’s automotive identity.
Equally influential is the Toyota Quantum, awarded for its impact in the commercial sector. A fixture in South Africa’s transport ecosystem, the Quantum remains indispensable to fleet operators, logistics companies and public transport providers thanks to its robust engineering and spacious, practical design.
Toyota’s forward momentum in new energy solutions was also recognised through the Corolla Cross Hybrid’s triumph in the New Energy Vehicle category. As one of the country’s most accessible hybrid options, it offers exceptional fuel efficiency and a practical stepping stone toward cleaner mobility—aligning with both consumer needs and South Africa’s environmental objectives.
Beyond its vehicle lineup, Toyota’s victories in the Job Creators and Youth Empowering categories shine a spotlight on its commitment to national development. The company’s role in addressing youth unemployment continues to be significant, particularly through its participation in the Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative. To date, TSAM has created more than 4,000 work opportunities for young South Africans, providing critical training, workplace exposure and future career pathways.
Reflecting on the recognitions, Andrew Kirby, President and CEO of Toyota South Africa Motors, said, “We are deeply honoured by the recognition received at the 2025 naamsa Accelerator Awards. These accolades are a tribute to the dedication of our employees, dealer network and partners who continue to drive our mission forward. At Toyota South Africa Motors, we believe in building more than just cars – we build communities, careers and a sustainable future for South Africa. As we close Transport Month, we reaffirm our commitment to transformation, innovation and local empowerment.”
With a commanding 24.7% share of new vehicle sales and consistently strong export volumes, Toyota remains a pillar of South Africa’s automotive economy. Its Durban manufacturing facility continues to serve as a vital engine of innovation, employment and industrial capability, supplying both local and global markets with vehicles designed around the evolving needs of customers.
As the industry accelerates toward new energy solutions and inclusive growth, Toyota stands firmly at the forefront—delivering vehicles trusted by millions while investing in the people and communities who move the nation forward.
