Saudi Arabia’s Jameel Motors Expands into South African Market

Jameel Motors of Saudi Arabia and Changan Automobile of China have signed a distribution agreement in South Africa for sports utility vehicles (SUVs), sedans, pickup trucks, and new energy vehicles (NEVs).

Jameel Motors has made a new market entry. Being Africa's largest automobile market, with new car sales predicted to surpass 500,000 in 2024 and growing demand for affordable cars with cutting-edge technology, the South African market offers a substantial long-term investment opportunity.

Year-over-year sales of new passenger cars increased by 18.3% in January 2025. As part of its commitment, Jameel Motors plans to build local dealerships and create jobs, both of which will boost the nation's economy.

"We are excited to announce Jameel Motors' market entry into South Africa, especially as we do so with Changan Automobile, a forward-thinking automotive player with exceptional products," said Jasmmine Wong, CEO of Mobility for Abdul Latif Jameel. "We look forward to driving long-term market growth and providing drivers across South Africa with more and better personal mobility options."

Changan Automobile Middle East and Africa Business Unit General Manager XIAO Feng said, "This is a new milestone for our business in South Africa. One of the top Chinese automakers, Changan Automobile, is committed to building a top-tier automotive brand. We are confident that through our strategic partnership with Jameel Motors, we will become a key player in the South African market."

Jameel Motors will initially distribute CHANGAN and DEEPAL products. CHANGAN sells sedans, SUVs, and pickup combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, whereas DEEPAL focuses on NEVs.

The varied topography and road conditions of South Africa are ideal for DEEPAL and CHANGAN vehicles. Building on its history of success, Jameel Motors is in a good position to satisfy local clients' demands. It is anticipated that the cars will go on sale in the fourth quarter of 2025.

"I am honored to join a company that is building on 70 years of automotive excellence by introducing CHANGAN and DEEPAL vehicles to South Africa. "I believe we can effectively meet the diverse automotive demands of South African drivers and deliver a positive market experience by leveraging Jameel Motors' extensive experience and Changan Automobile's renowned focus on safety, quality, and technology," said Marinus Venter, Country Manager, Jameel Motors South Africa.