Dongfeng, a major Chinese automaker, is launching in South Africa with its electric hatchback, the Box. Learn about the brand’s entry strategy, vehicle specs, and what it means for the local EV market.
New Chinese Car Brands South Africa: Dongfeng Enters the Market
South Africa’s automotive landscape is welcoming another rising star from China. Dongfeng South Africa, one of the country’s largest state-owned automakers, is preparing to launch its first model locally. It joins an expanding list of New Chinese Car Brands South Africa, reshaping competition and consumer choice.
Dongfeng: A Brief Overview
Founded in 1969, Dongfeng (pronounced “Dong Fong”) started as a producer of military and commercial vehicles. Today, it’s a major player in China’s passenger car segment, with a growing emphasis on electric vehicles (EVs).
Dongfeng now joins the ranks of other Chinese brands like FAW, Changan, and SAIC Motor in pursuing South African expansion. The rise of New Chinese Car Brands South Africa is gaining serious momentum.
The Box: Dongfeng’s First South African Model
Dongfeng’s debut model is a compact electric hatchback known locally as the Box (called Nammi 01 in China). It’s scheduled to arrive in early 2025, hinting at a launch within a few months.
- Length: 4,030mm
- Width: 1,180mm
- Height: 1,570mm
- Segment: B-Segment (comparable to VW Polo)
Performance and Range
The Dongfeng Box is powered by:
- Electric Motor Output: 70kW, 160Nm
- Battery: 32.3kWh
- Top Speed: 140km/h
- Claimed Range: Up to 430km
Charging Options:
- AC Charging (6.6kW)
- DC Fast Charging (88kW): 0–80% in 30 minutes (200km range)
These specs position the Box as a practical daily EV, especially for city driving.
Features and Potential Pricing
While South African specs aren’t finalized, international models include:
- Two-tone artificial leather seats (heated)
- Wireless phone charging
- Automatic climate control
- Ambient interior lighting
- 12.8-inch infotainment screen
- Digital instrument cluster
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane-keep assist
- 360-degree camera
Affordable EVs South Africa
Given its compact size and strong features, the Box could emerge as one of the most affordable EVs in South Africa. Competitors include:
- Dayun Yuehu S5
- BYD Dolphin
- BYD Dolphin Mini (rumored to start at ~R350,000)
This wave of affordable electric cars could shake up South Africa’s growing EV market.
Future Plans and Sub-Brands
Dongfeng has confirmed plans to release two additional vehicles in South Africa by the end of 2025. Specific models remain under wraps.
Dongfeng Sub-Brands:
- Voyah – Luxury segment (competing with Chery’s Omoda or Lexus)
- M-Hero – High-performance 4x4s (rivaling GWM Tank)
- Nammi – Compact electric cars
- Aeolus – General-purpose EVs
If Dongfeng sees success locally, these sub-brands may follow, offering broader product variety and new competition for legacy automakers.
Final Thoughts: A New Era for Chinese Cars in SA?
The entry of Dongfeng into South Africa marks another milestone in the Chinese car brand revolution. With more electric and tech-savvy models coming in, South African buyers have greater access to value-driven vehicles.
Which Chinese car brand do you think will dominate the South African market in the next few years? Share your predictions in the comments!
