By Aurelia Mbokazi-Kashe
There was a quiet sense of urgency in the air as Volkswagen Group Africa opened its 2026 Indaba, an emotional, forward-looking gathering that reflected both the realities of a shifting automotive industry and the determination of the people steering it into a new era.
From the outset, it was clear this was not just another product showcase. Conversations moved between sombre reflections on South Africa’s industrial future, inspiring innovation stories from the Kariega plant, and the unwavering commitment of VW’s workforce to ensure that every vehicle bearing a VW badge is tested to the maximum for driver, passenger, and pedestrian safety alike.
GIBS professor Adrian Saville delivered one of the day’s most sobering moments, drawing a direct line between industrialisation and economic growth. His message was clear: without strong industrial development, South Africa’s economic outlook remains bleak.
Volkswagen Group Africa Chairperson and Managing Director Martina Biene followed, sharing insights into the group’s Africa pivot strategy, South Africa’s crossroads, and the transition from internal combustion engines to New Energy Vehicles, among the realities that keep her awake at night.
Yet there was also hope. At the community level, Volkswagen is partnering with LEAP Schools to open a maths and science school in KwaNobuhle township. The aim is to provide quality STEM education within the very community that feeds into VW’s workforce, helping nurture future professionals and leaders.
Motorsport
Motorsport added excitement to the programme, with confirmation that South African racing star Jonathan Mogotsi will compete in the legendary Nürburgring 24-Hour. The 2024 SupaCup champion, who began his journey through the 2016 Volkswagen Driver Search, will race in May 2026 after qualifying in two NLS events.
It’s a significant milestone in Mogotsi’s ten-year Volkswagen journey, and one the local motorsport community will be watching closely.
Celebrations
There was plenty to celebrate too. 2026 marks 75 years since the first VW Beetle arrived in South Africa and 30 years of the beloved Polo, milestones the brand plans to honour in style.
Audi joined the platform, outlining its local strategy and reaffirming its commitment to performance leadership and product momentum. New arrivals this year include the all- new Audi Q3 and Q5, with the RS 5 strengthening the performance portfolio. Audi also highlighted its global Formula One entry from 2026.
Ducati brought two-wheel energy to the stage, announcing major expansion plans with new dealerships opening in Johannesburg, Umhlanga, Gqeberha, George, Bloemfontein and Windhoek, building a growing community around its championship- winning legacy.
Then came what every motoring journalist waits for: the product reveals.
New products
Volkswagen unveiled the striking new T-Roc, arriving later this year, followed by the sophisticated T7 Caravelle, a modern reimagining of the people’s bus. The Caravelle launches as a plug-in hybrid, starting in electric mode when charged, signalling VW’s intent to balance everyday usability with cleaner mobility.
For small businesses, the locally built Vivo Xpress returns in February 2026, targeting South Africa’s growing light delivery vehicle segment. Priced at R279,990, it comes with a 3-year/120,000km warranty and six-year anti-corrosion cover.
As the day wrapped up, what lingered wasn’t just new metal or milestones, it was the sense that Volkswagen Group Africa is navigating change with purpose, people and progress firmly at the centre.
