South Africa’s Vehicle Sales Climb 18%

Automakers sold 54,100 vehicles last month in South Africa compared with 45,700 units a year earlier, according to the National Assn. of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa.

The group credits the gains to higher sales to car rental companies and stronger consumer demand sparked by low interest rates and more affordable pricing.

Passenger car sales jumped 18% year over year to 37,800 units in July. Volume for light- and heavy-duty commercial vehicles climbed 21% to 13,800 units and 9% to 1,600 units, respectively.

Vehicle exports increased 12% to 27,600 units last month, NAMSA reports.