As the Eastern Cape province continues to drive economic growth and development, the Automotive Industry Development Centre Eastern Cape (AIDC-EC) remains at the forefront of promoting the growth of the automotive sector. The Eastern Cape Premier's vision for the sector's future in this region, outlined at the South African Auto Week in October 2024, is already gaining momentum.
On Friday, 21 February 2025, Premier Oscar Mabuyane, during his State of the Province Address (SOPA) highlighted the province's focus on manufacturing, particularly in the automotive sector. As the AIDC-EC, we are encouraged by the recognition that our efforts have served as catalysts for driving this remarkable growth, propelling the Eastern Cape's automotive sector forward.
In tackling investment attraction and job creation in this region, the Premier's address announced significant investments in the automotive sector, including R11.4 billion for 29 new off-grid electric vehicle charging stations and R4 billion for manufacturing electric mini-buses. These investments are expected to create 1,500 jobs, marking a monumental step towards contributing to the province's economic growth and development. Our organisation has been central to these developments as we facilitated crucial engagements, attracting these investments and promoting the growth of the automotive sector.
We continue to catapult sustainable mobility and eco-friendly initiatives: the 21 February 2025 SOPA emphasised the importance of sustainable mobility, and we are encouraged by the knowledge that our efforts align with this vision. Our showcase of electric vehicles during the SOPA event demonstrated our commitment to promoting eco-friendly initiatives and reducing our carbon footprint.
The AIDC-EC team made a statement with an Eco-friendly Electric Vehicle Convoy from Gqeberha to Bisho and gave members of legislature an eco-friendly vehicle ride experience. The Eco-friendly Electric Vehicle Convoy was powered by the following OEMs:
· CHERY-OMODA-JAECOO SA
· Volkswagen Group Africa,
· BMW Group SA, and
· Mercedes Benz South Africa
Our partnerships with stakeholders, including the provincial government, have been pivotal in driving growth and investment in the automotive sector. This AIDC-EC believes that collaboration and partnerships are key to unlocking the full potential of the Eastern Cape and works tirelessly to promote the growth of the automotive sector.
With unshakeable resolve, the AIDC-EC will continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in the Eastern Cape - propelling the province to unprecedented heights.
There is a clear plan in place to ensure sustainable empowerment of autobody repairers, and as the AIDC-EC we are confident that our province will continue to thrive as a leader in the automotive sector. This year, we look forward to hosting the National Association of Automotive Component and Allied Manufacturers (NAACAM) Show 2025 in Gqeberha, and we invite all component suppliers to take advantage of this platform and join us in shaping the future of the automotive sector.
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