Record sales signal shift from Western to Chinese cars

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On demand, Jaecoo J7

by SAVIOUS KWINIKA
JOHANNESBURG, (CAJ News) – OMODA & JAECOO South Africa recorded exceptional sales growth in 2025, underlining both the rapid rise of the brand and the broader transformation taking place within the South African motor industry, where Chinese manufacturers are increasingly displacing traditionally dominant European and American marques.

The brand’s total annual sales surged by 147 per cent year-on-year, rising from 5,097 units in 2024 to 12,597 vehicles in 2025.

The performance reflects accelerating consumer acceptance of Chinese-built vehicles, which are gaining ground across all major segments of the local market.

“This growth reflects rising brand awareness, strong consumer confidence, and sustained demand across both the OMODA and JAECOO ranges,” said Hans Greyling, General Manager for OMODA & JAECOO South Africa.

“The addition of new models such as the J5 and C7 has further strengthened our offering, while the introduction of hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants has significantly broadened our appeal.”

Sales momentum built steadily throughout the period, with monthly volumes increasing from 222 vehicles in January 2024 to 1,317 units by December 2025.

This upward trajectory was driven by an expanding SUV portfolio, competitive pricing and features that resonate strongly with South African motorists seeking value, technology and modern design.

The OMODA C5 emerged as the brand’s flagship performer, recording sales growth of 157.7 per cent and achieving total sales of 11,738 units across 2024 and 2025.

The model has firmly established itself as the cornerstone of the brand’s local success. Other models also posted strong gains, with OMODA C9 sales surging by 229.1 per cent, while JAECOO J7 volumes grew by 32.6 per cent over the same period.

New entrants delivered impressive early results. The JAECOO J5, launched in August, recorded 1,062 sales in 2025, signalling strong appetite for compact crossovers that blend premium styling with affordability.

Monthly sales data further illustrated the brand’s strength, with November emerging as the strongest sales month in both 2024 and 2025.

“This performance reflects the strength of our product strategy and our commitment to offering vehicles that resonate with a wide variety of customers,” Greyling said.

“From our stylish urban SUVs such as the C5 and J5, to advanced plug-in hybrid options like the C9 SHS, our line-up is designed to meet the needs of today’s drivers, and the sales results clearly speak for themselves.”

The rise of OMODA & JAECOO mirrors a broader shift in South Africa’s automotive landscape.

Chinese manufacturers are increasingly preferred due to their competitive pricing, generous specifications, advanced infotainment systems and growing focus on hybrid and electrified powertrains.

Unlike many traditional European and American brands, Chinese automakers have also demonstrated agility in adapting vehicles to emerging-market conditions.

With more models and hybrid variants planned, including upcoming C5 and J5 hybrids, OMODA & JAECOO are well positioned to sustain growth.

As Chinese brands continue to expand their footprint, South Africa’s motor industry is entering a new era, marked by intensified competition and rapidly changing consumer preferences.

– CAJ News

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