Which country has the largest car manufacturer in Africa – Why you should buy Home made Cars

You might probably be interested to know that Africa is home to some of the biggest car manufacturing companies in the world. Starting with Birkin Cars, a South African-based car manufacturing company, which is the biggest in the industry, having started in 1982, making South Africa the largest car manufacturer in Africa.

South Africa is traditionally the leader in Africa of the automotive industry and now produces more than half a million automobiles annually of all types. While domestic development of trucks and military vehicles exists, cars built under the license of foreign brands are the mainstay.

The South African vehicle manufacturing is definitely one that’s worth watching. They host different major automakers and have a well-advanced automotive industry. Companies such as Toyota, Volkswagen, and Ford have valuable manufacturing operations there. 

Not only does South Africa serve as a hub for vehicle manufacturing and distribution to a major part of the African continent, but Africa is also home to seven of the world’s 10 fastest-growing economies. According to David Macrae, Business Development manager at WW Solutions South Africa, there’s now a movement towards South African-based OEMs becoming the ‘mother plants’ for the entire African continent.

South Africa holds that title, with a more established automotive industry. However, Morocco has been rapidly growing its automotive sector and has attracted several major manufacturers, making it a significant player in the continent’s automotive market.

The South African automotive industry incorporates the manufacture, distribution, servicing, and maintenance of motor vehicles and components. Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), official dealers, and repair specialists work closely together to provide maintenance and repair services.  They cooperate to ensure warranty service, driver safety, environmental protection, spare parts availability, and information about technical improvements.  

Frankly speaking, one can say that Africa has finally caught up with the rest of the world in terms of the quality of locally made cars. The market for locally manufactured cars has grown to compete with foreign imported brands, which is a huge step for Africa’s emerging economy.

Why you should buy Home made car

1. Economic Support: Buying home made cars helps increase the national economy by supporting  jobs and local businesses 
2. Innovation and Development: Purchasing home made serves as a means of support to encourage innovations and investment in technology, as well as skills within the country.
3. Resale Value: Home made cars will probably retain good resale value due to brand recognition and support network.
4. Adaptations to Local Needs: The fact that it is homemade, the manufacturers will carefully produce suitable vehicles for the different road conditions.
5. Government Incentives: Some countries render incentives for purchasing locally, including tax breaks or subsidies.

Cars Made In Africa by African Manufacturers:

1. Laraki (Morocco)

Laraki was established in 1999 by Abdesslam Laraki, a Moroccan designer and entrepreneur who became wealthy by importing cars in Morocco in 1973.

Larakis are strictly concept cars, custom-built for each customer, and gained recognition as some of the world’s most expensive cars in 2015. In 2002, it produced the first car; Laraki Fulgura. Its 2013 Laraki Epitome Concept which has a V8 engine, 1100 Horsepower (RPM), and a top speed that is estimated at 175 mph, is sold for $2,000,000.

2. Birkin Cars (South Africa)

Established in 1982, this South African-based automobile company stands as one of the industry’s oldest players. With a global presence spanning the United States, Japan, and Europe, Birkin Cars has built a reputation for crafting high-quality classic reproductions. Among their standout offerings are the SS3 Street Series and the CS3 Clubman Series.

3. Wallys Automobile (Tunisia)

Wallys Automobile, based in Tunisia, was founded by brothers Zied and Omar Guiga in 2006. It proudly stands as the first local manufacturer in Africa and the Arab world to export its vehicles to Europe. The company has experienced a growing presence in several countries, with its vehicles gaining popularity in markets such as Panama, Morocco, Spain, and Qatar.

4. Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing (Nigeria)

Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company is a prominent Nigerian automobile manufacturer based in Umudim, Nnewi. Founded in 2007 by Nigerian-born entrepreneur, Innocent Chukwuma, it produces a wide range of vehicles, including cars, buses, and trucks. Innoson is a significant player in Nigeria’s automotive industry and has gained recognition for its efforts to promote local manufacturing.

5. Kiira Motors Corporation (Uganda)

Founded in 2014, Kiira Motors Corporation (KMC) is an Automotive Manufacturing Company incorporated by the Government of Uganda and Makerere University to champion value addition in the country’s auto industry. KMC’s vehicle lineup includes the innovative Kayyoola Solar Bus, the efficient Kiira EV Smack, and the Kiira EV POC, equipped with a substantial battery bank boasting a capacity of 40AH and 207V.

6. Mobius Motors (Kenya)

Established in 2010, Mobius Motors specializes in designing, manufacturing, and selling vehicles tailored for the African mass market. The company uses simplified design concepts to produce efficient and cheap vehicles that can compete with imported vehicles that dominate the East African automotive market.

7. Kantanka Automobile (Ghana)

Kantanka Automobile is a Ghanaian-based automotive company that designs, manufactures, assembles and sells luxury cars. The company initially specialized in manufacturing car components but shifted its focus to producing complete vehicles in 1998. They offer a diverse range of models, including Mehsah, K71, Onantefo, Omama Pickup, Omama Hard Body, and Amoanimaah.

8. SNVI (Algeria)

Established in 1967, SNVI is an Algerian firm specializing in the manufacturing of trucks, buses, and semi-trailers. The company exports its products to several nations, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Iraq, Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, and Libya. SNVI aspires to return to its 1980s production capacity of 6,000 vehicles annually.

Purchasing home made cars not only support the economy but protects a more sustainable and capable automotive industry.