Volkswagen Group Africa’s Kariega plant has achieved a significant manufacturing milestone with the production of its three-millionth vehicle, a Polo Vivo destined for the South African market.
This accomplishment underscores the strength of Volkswagen’s local operations and its far-reaching impact on the country’s automotive repair and service ecosystem.
The Kariega facility’s legacy dates back to 1948 when it began producing Studebaker and Austin models under the South African Motor Assemblers and Distributors name. Since then, it has built a diverse range of vehicles that have shaped the local market and sustained an extensive repair and maintenance network.
From the Beetle and Type 2 Kombi to the Citi Golf and Polo range, each generation has supported thousands of workshops and parts suppliers across the country.
Today, the plant continues to build the Polo for both local and export markets and the Polo Vivo, which remains South Africa’s best-selling passenger car. These models ensure the continued availability of skills, tools and components that keep independent repairers and authorised service centres busy.
Production Director Ulrich Schwabe said Volkswagen’s achievement confirms its long-standing commitment to South Africa’s automotive industry.
With the new Tengo set for local manufacture in 2027, the brand is not only building vehicles but also supporting the repair and parts sector that keeps them running for years beyond the showroom.
