At the 9th edition of the Shell Gaborone Motor Show in Gaborone, the Botswanan capital, Chinese auto brands like Haval, Cherry, Tank, and JAC caught the attention of local car enthusiasts. Over the past five years, Chinese-made vehicles have become a part of Botswana’s competitive automotive industry. Brands like Chery, Haval, JAC, and BAIC are becoming popular among Botswanan consumers who appreciate the quality, durability, and reliability of these vehicles.
Bellson Othomile, a sales executive at Motor Holdings Botswana, mentioned that Haval is a well-liked brand in Gaborone and throughout Botswana. The brand offers great value in terms of cost, technology, design, and comfort. Chinese cars are becoming a good alternative to the brands that used to dominate the southern African automotive markets.
Features and Sales
Many people choose to buy Haval cars because of their affordable price and impressive features. Othomile shared that around 23 units are sold each month, with the Haval Jolion being the most popular model. The Jolion is expected to continue the success of previous Haval products like the P series, H1, H6, H9, and the Tank 300.
Other Chinese Brands
Star Motor Group is another company in Botswana that sells Chinese auto brands like JAC and Chery. Peter Kabelo, a sales executive at the group, highlighted Chery’s success in offering a warranty for engines up to 1 million kilometers or 10 years, including the transmission.
Compared to traditional foreign brands, Chinese cars bring advanced technologies and comfort to Botswana customers. Features like voice command, remote start, wireless charging, big screens, and autopilot are becoming more accessible to consumers.
Consumer Perspective
Isaac Pheko, a Botswana motorist journalist, expressed his admiration for Chinese-made cars due to their improved build quality and durability over the past decade. He also noted that Chinese cars are more affordable than German, Japanese, and American-made cars, making them a popular choice among consumers in Botswana.
