Rising fuel costs make the case for NEVs stronger
Younger South Africans are buying fewer vehicles than a decade ago, with under-35s' share of new vehicle purchases falling from 37% to 31%, and used vehicle purchases from 45% to 37%. Affordability pressures, rising ownership costs and alternative transport options continue to weigh on demand, while Chinese brands now account for more than 10% of purchases by younger buyers. At the same time, New Energy Vehicles are becoming increasingly price competitive as more affordable models enter the market and rising fuel prices encourage consumers to consider alternative powertrains. Explore these stories and more in this edition of Auto Insights.
Younger South Africans buy fewer cars
Younger South Africans are buying fewer vehicles than a decade ago, with under-35s’ share of New vehicle purchases falling from 37% to 31% and Used vehicle purchases from 45% to 37%. Affordability pressures, rising ownership costs and transport alternatives are weighing on demand, while Chinese brands are gaining traction among younger buyers, now accounting for more than 10% of all vehicle purchases by this age group.
Read MoreNew Energy Vehicles are becoming more price competitive
New Energy Vehicles are beginning to shake off their premium-price image as more affordable hybrid, plug-in hybrid and battery electric models enter the South African market. Lightstone’s latest analysis looks at how NEV market share passed 5% for the first time in April 2026 and climbed above 6% in May, supported by rising fuel prices, a wider range of models and a noticeable move into lower price bands.
Read More
New vehicle market hits its strongest start in 13 years
South Africa’s new vehicle market has shifted up a gear, with sales for the first four months of 2026 reaching their highest January-April level since 2013, according to naamsa figures cited in Lightstone’s latest analysis. The report unpacks the growth behind Passenger and Light Commercial sales, the continued growth in Hybrid and Electric vehicles, Crossover/SUV dominance, and Lightstone’s new tracking of the formal Used Light Vehicle market.
Read MoreRising fuel prices cut vehicle sales
Rising fuel prices are putting pressure on South Africa's vehicle market, with diesel ICE sales falling to a 27% share in April 2026 as NEVs passed 5% for the first time. Lightstone Retail's mobility analysis also shows South Africans drove 6% fewer kilometres per week in May than in February, while higher fuel costs continue to add pressure to inflation and household budgets.
Read More
