You might not know this, but the automotive sector is one of the country’s largest economic sectors. Not only is this industry the fifth largest export sector, accounting for 18,1% of total exports, but it contributes 4,3% to the country’s GDP and employs over 110 000 people. 

This industry is also teetering on the edge of a technological revolution, with dynamic innovations transforming the way we interact with our vehicles. From electric vehicles to advanced driver-assistance systems, the latest advancements are poised to radically alter the path of the automotive industry.  

Let’s explore the latest in car tech innovations and what they mean for South African motorists. 

Electric Vehicles: The Future Of Transportation 

Electric vehicles (EVs) offer numerous benefits, including reduced emissions, lower operating costs, and improved performance. Most South Africans can only dream of this type of vehicle, and we do currently have a reputation for a slow-moving EV market. That said, there are predictions indicating that this market is projected to grow at a rate of 16.3% annually until 2028, with a projected value of R615 million by 2024.  

As the industry shifts towards EVs, our take is that automakers must prioritise instilling public confidence in these advancements. 

Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) 

ADAS is another area of significant innovation, with major advancements in key areas, including lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. These innovations have a double benefit in that they enhance safety on the road while also improving the overall driving experience for motorists.  

Essentially, the rise of ADAS is changing how we drive. By seamlessly integrating these systems with traditional features, South Africa motorists are assured of a cohesive and user-friendly experience. More than this, it encourages us to drive better, so overall, it ups the safety factor for everyone that hits the road. 

Cloud-Based Digital Twins 

Maybe you haven’t heard of cloud-based digital twins, which is perfectly understandable, seeing as it mostly applies to the manufacturing side. This particular innovation is transforming automotive development by enabling early detection of integration issues and broader developer participation in the design process before hardware is available.  

To put it more simply, automotive companies can simulate and test new vehicle designs and manufacturing processes in a virtual environment. This means that companies can identify potential issues early in development, reducing the time and costs related to physical testing. 

Secure And Reliable Systems 

The evolution of automotive IoT is poised to transform vehicle functionalities, with secure and reliable systems facilitating seamless upgrades. This includes features such as personalised in-car entertainment, tyre wear monitoring, and contactless fuel payments.  

Our take is that these innovations will completely alter the way we interact with our vehicles, making driving safer, more personalised, and exciting. 

Audio Innovations 

This might not seem all that important, but audio innovations are no less exciting – or impactful. With these developments, software-defined vehicles can enable exceptional in-vehicle sound experiences, including everything from basic functionalities like hands-free calling and noise cancellation to advanced infotainment and safety features. There’s also the possibility for vehicle owners to upgrade to premium, branded audio services which could lead to taking up new value-adding features, fostering exciting collaborations that appeal to and excite motorists. 

Feeling Informed? 

As the South African automotive industry continues to evolve, it’s essential to stay informed about the latest innovations and how they can benefit your driving experience. 

Remember, the AA Inform team is here to provide you with reliable and helpful information. That’s why we have developed a variety of tools, from our Fuel Consumption Calculator and Car Affordability Calculator to our Car Finance Calculator and featured articles.