Volkswagen’s African unit achieved a record high in 2024, exporting 131,485 Polo models to European and Asia-Pacific markets.
This surpasses the previous record of 108,422 units set in 2019.
The company’s manufacturing plant in Kariega, South Africa, now exclusively exports the Polo to 38 countries.
These exports accounted for a significant 88% of all South African vehicle exports last year.
Domestically, the Polo also performed well, securing fourth place in its segment with 12,253 units sold.
The locally-built Polo Vivo maintained its dominance, leading the segment with 25,914 units.
Martina Biene, Chairperson and Managing Director at Volkswagen Group Africa, attributed this success to factors like lower interest rates, improved power supply, and enhanced port and rail infrastructure.
While acknowledging steady progress, Biene emphasized that continued improvements are crucial for sustained growth.