In recent years, Chinese cars have gained significant traction in the South African automotive market. However, this growing popularity has also made these vehicles a prime target for hijackers.

Targeted Brands and Models

Currently, South Africa experiences an alarming rate of approximately 60 car hijackings daily. Certain brands and models, especially popular ones, are more susceptible to these crimes. The most sought-after vehicles align closely with the best-selling models, creating a worrying trend for both consumers and manufacturers.

The high demand for these vehicles not only makes them attractive to thieves but also facilitates their resale on the black market. Criminals often strip stolen cars for parts, especially engines, which are then sold to unscrupulous dealers or chop shops. This situation poses a significant challenge for Chinese car manufacturers, who have recently become major players in the market. Brands like Chery and GWM have entered the top 10 best-selling list, while Omoda and Jaecoo have quickly risen to prominence, showcasing the growing presence of Chinese automotive brands.

Sales Trends and Market Dynamics

In South Africa, the recent sales figures illustrate the strong performance of Chinese manufacturers compared to traditional brands. The following sales numbers highlight this trend:

1. Toyota – 10,890 units
2. VW – 5,885 units
3. Suzuki – 5,032 units
4. Hyundai – 2,841 units
5. Ford – 2,823 units
6. Isuzu – 1,960 units
7. GWM – 1,740 units
8. Chery – 1,614 units
9. Renault – 1,426 units
10. Nissan – 1,425 units
11. Kia – 1,284 units
12. Mahindra – 1,014 units
13. BMW – 961 units
14. Mercedes-Benz – 535 units
15. Omoda & Jaecoo – 506 units

Chinese manufacturers are already outselling several legacy brands despite their relatively recent entry into the market. This trend is expected to continue, with numerous new manufacturers from China, such as BYD and Foton, now available to South African consumers.

Increased Hijacking Incidents

Fidelity Services Group has reported a notable increase in hijackings involving Chinese vehicles since 2020, coinciding with a remarkable 305% growth in sales of these brands. Models like the Chery SUVs and GWM P-Series bakkie are among those frequently targeted, particularly because bakkies and 4×4 SUVs are highly valued across Africa, leading to smuggling operations into neighboring countries.

Moreover, Chinese vehicles often feature powerful engines, making them even more appealing to thieves. Criminal syndicates have previously stolen models like Havals for their engines, which were then repurposed for use in minibuses commonly employed as taxis.

Conclusion

As the popularity of Chinese cars continues to rise in South Africa, the associated risks of theft and hijacking present significant challenges for manufacturers and consumers alike. The need for enhanced security measures and robust support for local law enforcement is more pressing than ever.