Used hybrids drive 73% NEV growth

A 73% jump in new-energy-vehicle sales proves South African drivers are grabbing greener options when the price is right.

Used hybrids running the show

• Second-hand hybrids made up 85% of all new-energy-vehicle sales in 2025.
• Used hybrid transactions hit 4,888 units, a 76% year-over-year climb.
• The locally built Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid was the top seller.
• Volvo EX30 and various Toyota and Lexus models also moved well.

Battery electrics still lagging

• Used BEV sales grew 55%, but from a much tinier base.
• Charging infrastructure gaps keep buyers skeptical about going fully electric.
• Higher upfront costs remain a major turnoff for budget-conscious shoppers.
• Range anxiety is pushing most people toward hybrids instead.

Why hybrids click for South Africans

• Lower fuel bills matter a lot when petrol prices stay elevated.
• Hybrids skip the need for plug-in infrastructure entirely.
• Running costs beat traditional petrol cars without the EV hassle.
• Interest-rate cuts during 2025 made financing easier across the board.

Broader used-car market momentum

• Total used-car sales landed at 383,410 units worth R160.1 billion.
• That marks a 7% bump over the previous year.
• SUVs kept dominating overall volume in the segment.
• Hybrid demand signals a clear pivot toward fuel-efficient choices.

Economic ripple effects

• Small dealers and emerging operators are riding the hybrid wave.
• Mechanics, salespeople, and finance teams all benefit from the growth.
• More used hybrids hitting the market should keep the trend rolling.
• Government incentives and local manufacturing pushes are in the works.