Jetour, a Chinese car brand that entered the South African market in September 2024, is now outselling several well-known automakers, including Mercedes-Benz, Honda, and Mazda.
Jetour is a sub-brand of Chery Holding Group. It manufactures crossovers and SUVs and focuses heavily on international expansion. By 2021, Jetour became an independent company with full control over its global operations. The brand says its mission is to build vehicles that are safer, more comfortable, more intelligent, and environmentally friendly.
Jetour’s Global Presence and Local Launch
From 2018 to 2024, Jetour sold more than 1.2 million vehicles across five product lines in 60 countries, supported by over 1,200 global partners.
In September 2024, Jetour officially launched in South Africa with a network of 40 dealerships. It also established a major parts warehouse in Kyalami, Johannesburg. The brand is targeting mid- to high-end local buyers looking for comfort, elegance, safety, and reliability.
“We are excited to bring Jetour’s international success to South Africa,” said Jetour SA Managing Director Johnny Fang. “We aim to become the leading choice for travel vehicles among South Africans.”
Fang revealed that Jetour plans to sell 800 vehicles per month during its first year. The company launched locally with two models: the Jetour X70 Plus and the Jetour Dashing.
Focus on Service and Logistics
Fang also emphasized the company’s focus on high-quality service and reliable parts availability. The Kyalami parts warehouse plays a key role in this plan.
Jetour South Africa’s Logistics and Warehouse Manager, Shaun Riley, said the warehouse is designed for speed, cleanliness, and responsiveness. “We built a digital-first system to manage every part of our logistics—from receiving and picking to final dispatch,” Riley explained. “It’s all about ensuring customers get their vehicles back on time, properly serviced, with no issues.”
Jetour’s Strong Sales Performance
According to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa), Jetour sold 620 passenger cars in May 2025. This placed it ahead of several long-established brands, including Mercedes-Benz, Honda, Jaguar Land Rover, Mazda, Mitsubishi, and Volvo.
Naamsa also reported that South Africa’s total new passenger car sales in May 2025 reached 31,741 units. This marked a 30% increase—or 7,322 more vehicles—compared to the 24,419 units sold in May 2024.
Naamsa noted that the South African Reserve Bank’s (SARB) recent decision to lower interest rates played a major role in boosting sales. “Lower credit costs are making cars more affordable for consumers,” the report said.
It added that improving economic conditions, including a stronger rand and declining inflation (now at 2.8%), have created a positive environment for consumer spending and business investment. SARB’s revised oil price forecasts also contributed to lower inflation expectations.
Looking Ahead
As Jetour continues its expansion in South Africa, strong early sales numbers show the brand is gaining ground quickly. With a focus on advanced logistics, reliable after-sales service, and a growing dealership network, Jetour appears well-positioned to challenge established automotive brands in the local market.
