Stellantis South Africa managing director Mike Whitfield has welcomed the growing wave of Chinese automotive brands entering the local market, but says newcomers must match their ambition with real investment in the country if they hope to compete on equal terms.
Speaking during an interview in Cars.co.za’s purpose-built podcast studio at Naamsa’s South African Auto Week 2025 in Gqeberha, Whitfield said the arrival of new global players should be viewed as a positive step for consumers and the broader industry—provided all brands contribute to South Africa’s automotive development goals.
“There’s no question that Chinese manufacturers build excellent vehicles,” Whitfield said. “They absolutely have the right to enter this market. But like every other global brand operating here, they must invest in the country. That’s the only way we create a sustainable and competitive automotive sector.”
His comments come as Stellantis officially rolls out Leapmotor, the China-founded EV and smart mobility brand, in South Africa. Whitfield said the partnership illustrates how established automotive groups and Chinese innovators can collaborate while still supporting local industry growth.
Whitfield emphasised that encouraging Chinese brands to invest—whether through local assembly, supplier development, or skills transfer—is not about protectionism but about ensuring a level playing field. South Africa’s automotive masterplan places strong emphasis on local manufacturing capacity and job retention, areas that risk being undermined if the market becomes dominated by import-only models.
“We’re not opposed to competition. Competition is healthy,” Whitfield said. “But it has to be fair. Every participant in this market should be contributing to South Africa’s long-term automotive vision.”
The rapid expansion of Chinese brands—particularly in the affordable ICE and EV segments—has reshaped the local landscape, offering more choice to buyers while putting pressure on long-established manufacturers. Industry leaders increasingly argue that supporting industrialisation, rather than simply selling high-volume imports, is essential to maintaining stability and protecting local employment.
For Whitfield, the message is clear: South Africa is open for business, but expects partnership, investment, and commitment from those who want to be part of its automotive future.