South Africa’s automotive industry is set for a major boost after Chinese vehicle manufacturer Jetour confirmed plans to produce some of its models locally from 2027.
The company plans to assemble its T1 and T2 models at the former Nissan plant in Rosslyn, Pretoria. Chery South Africa recently acquired the facility. Jetour is part of the wider Chery Group, although the two brands operate separately in the South African market.
The announcement comes as Africa’s vehicle market is changing rapidly. Some established global brands are reducing operations, restructuring or shifting strategy. At the same time, Chinese automakers are expanding across the continent.
Their growth reflects strong demand for affordable, reliable and practical vehicles. In many African markets, customers want cars that can handle local road conditions, offer fuel efficiency and receive dependable after-sales support.
Jetour has already gained strong traction in South Africa. Since launching locally in October 2025, the T1 and T2 models have sold more than 4,500 units combined. The brand has also moved quickly in the local sales rankings, competing with established names such as Nissan, Kia and Mercedes-Benz.
Jetour president Ke Chuandeng announced the production plans at Auto China 2026 in Beijing. The move signals the company’s intention to grow beyond vehicle imports and build a stronger manufacturing base in South Africa.
The Rosslyn plant will undergo upgrades over the next 12 to 18 months. These changes will prepare the facility to produce different SUV models and powertrains.
By mid-2027, the Chery Group aims to produce up to 50,000 vehicles a year at the plant. The investment could also create more than 3,000 jobs across manufacturing and the supply chain.
The Motor Industry Staff Association has welcomed the announcement. The union had earlier urged the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition to ensure that foreign investment creates real jobs and supports skills development.
Misa’s chief executive of operations, Martlé Keyter, said the decision marked progress for workers and the wider industry.
“Jetour’s decision means jobs, skills and opportunities for our members and their families. We look forward to deeper collaboration with Chinese automakers,” Keyter added.
The investment could also strengthen South Africa’s role as one of Africa’s leading automotive manufacturing hubs. The country already has a strong base in vehicle assembly, components, logistics and exports.
Jetour’s plans come as the global automotive industry shifts towards electric, hybrid and intelligent mobility systems. Auto China 2026 placed a strong focus on these technologies. Jetour has also launched a plug-in hybrid electric version of its T-Series.
Misa said this creates an opportunity for South African workers to gain new technical skills. “Chinese automakers bring advanced expertise in electrification, hybridisation and intelligent mobility systems,” Misa said in a statement.
“South African workers stand to gain immensely from exposure to these technologies, ensuring that the auto industry remains competitive in a rapidly changing global market.”
For Africa, the development carries wider significance. The continent needs better mobility, but affordability and reliability must remain central. New vehicle investments must respond to real conditions, including road quality and maintenance costs, as well as access to parts and service networks.
Chinese automakers have identified a clear opportunity. If they build vehicles suited to African needs, they could reshape the continent’s mobility market. However, long-term success will depend on more than sales. It will require local production, skills transfer, strong service networks and meaningful investment in workers.
Jetour’s move shows that Chinese manufacturers now see Africa as a strategic growth market. The real test will be whether this investment delivers lasting jobs, stronger industrial capacity and vehicles that work for African roads.
