As the first days of spring roll into Johannesburg, car enthusiasts from across South Africa are set to converge on the iconic Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit for an automotive spectacle like no other. From August 30th to September 1st, 2024, the Festival of Motoring, powered by WesBank, will transform this legendary track into a vibrant hub of speed, innovation, and automotive culture.
This year’s festival is more than just a display of cars; it’s a fully immersive experience that caters to everyone—from seasoned petrolheads to curious newcomers. Michael Dehn, Managing Director of Messe Frankfurt South Africa, perfectly encapsulates the essence of the event: “The Festival of Motoring is the next level in motor show evolution; it is an immersive experience that engages attendees with the dynamic world of motoring.”
WesBank, a long-standing partner, is amplifying its presence this year with the involvement of FNB and MotoVantage, aiming to make the festival not just a showcase for car aficionados but a cornerstone event for informed car ownership. Lebo Gaoaketse, WesBank’s Head of Marketing and Communication, emphasizes the festival’s broader appeal: “Our aim is to ensure that the Festival caters to more than just enthusiasts with a connoisseur level of interest in motoring, but becomes a key institution in the path towards informed car ownership, from acquisition to maintenance, and eventually settlement and repurchase.”
For the 2024 edition, visitors are in for an unforgettable experience. Top automotive brands, including Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Bentley, BYD, Ford, Lamborghini, Porsche, and Volkswagen, will be showcasing their latest innovations. Volkswagen, one of the festival’s main attractions, will offer attendees the chance to experience their new lineup firsthand with track drives and thrilling rides alongside VW Motorsport drivers Jonathan Mogotsi and Daniel Rowe in a Supa Cup racing Polo.
In addition to the adrenaline-fueled track activities, the festival offers something for everyone. Families can enjoy simulator competitions, kids’ sand art, and explore the Merchandise Shop. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to love at the Volkswagen 4×4 Village, where they can experience Volkswagen’s adventure vehicles in action.
A new and exciting addition to the festival this year is the FoM Experience Centre. For an extra fee, visitors can enjoy heart-pounding hot-lap sessions around the main circuit, courtesy of BMW Motorsport Club, Simola Hill Climb, Samlin Lamborghini, and RDE Supercars. Drift enthusiasts won’t be left out either, with XDrift offering drifting rides at the skidpan.
Highlighting the festival’s commitment to showcasing the pinnacle of automotive excellence, the Lamborghini Revuelto, a marvel of hybrid engineering, will be on display. Bentley will also present its full model range, including the luxurious Bentayga, the exhilarating Continental GT, and the elegant Flying Spur, each representing the zenith of craftsmanship and performance.
Porsche fans are in for a treat as well. The marque will celebrate 50 years of the 911 Turbo, with the latest models, including the Cayenne GTS and Panamera, on display. On-track entertainment will be bolstered by demonstrations from Formula One-type vehicles, the Sunbet ZX10 SuperBikes Masters Cup Challenge, and the eagerly anticipated Shelby Mustang Speed Challenge.
Beyond the cars and track events, the festival fosters a strong sense of community, inviting attendees to enjoy gourmet food offerings at the vibrant food market and participate in complimentary activities on the main circuit, self-handling track, and 4×4 course.
Tickets for this must-attend annual event are available at www.howler.co.za, priced at R275 per adult and R75 for children aged 4 to 12 years. To make the festival experience even more convenient, SANI Car Rental will provide complimentary shuttle services from the Mall of Africa, with internal shuttles operated by Volkswagen, Isuzu, and Haval.
The 2024 Festival of Motoring is not just an event; it’s a celebration of automotive culture, innovation, and the joy of driving. Whether you’re there for the speed, the cars, or the community, Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit is the place to be this spring.
