Namibia’s automotive landscape continues to undergo a dramatic transformation as Chinese brands have taken up to 16% market share in Namibia and this figure is rising. The increased share is driven by award-winning products, advanced technology and competitive pricing that are reshaping consumer preferences. This momentum received a major boost after the South African Car of the Year 2026 last week crowned the Jetour T2 as the overall winner, while the OMODA C7 secured top honours in the fiercely contested family category.
These accolades underscore the rapid rise of these brands across Southern Africa, with Namibia increasingly becoming a key battleground as motorists seek vehicles that offer premium features without premium price tags.
According to Nathalie Schroeder, Sales Manager at Jetour Novel Namibia, changing consumer priorities are driving the shift.
“Consumers are looking for value-for-money vehicles that combine exceptional design with advanced technology,” said Schroeder. This formula appears to be resonating strongly with Namibian buyers.
Jetour’s growing range spans from the urban-focused Jetour Dashing and Jetour X70 to the more rugged all-wheel-drive Jetour T1 and Jetour T2. The brand recently introduced its i-DM hybrid technology in the T1 and T2, offering a combination of performance and fuel efficiency that is becoming increasingly attractive amid persistent fuel price pressures.
The hybrid system delivers a combined output of 250kW and 530Nm of torque while being backed by an eight-year battery warranty, positioning the vehicles as practical alternatives for motorists seeking lower running costs without sacrificing capability.
The success of the T2 in South Africa is expected to further strengthen Jetour’s standing in Namibia, where SUV demand continues to grow across both urban and rural markets.
At the same time, OMODA is rapidly building its own following.
The award-winning OMODA C7 has emerged as one of the brand’s standout performers, with nearly 600 units sold in South Africa within approximately six months of launch. Industry observers say the achievement reflects growing confidence among consumers in Chinese-built vehicles that increasingly rival established global brands in design, safety and technology.
Hans Greyling, General Manager of OMODA & JAECOO South Africa, described the Family category victory as a significant endorsement of the vehicle’s appeal. “The C7 was developed to offer style, technology, safety and value in a package that suits local families,” he said.
The C7 range includes both petrol and plug-in hybrid variants, with the hybrid version capable of travelling up to 105 kilometres on electric power alone and delivering a combined driving range of approximately 1 200 kilometres.
The broader OMODA and JAECOO portfolio, which includes the OMODA C5, OMODA C9, JAECOO J5 and JAECOO J7, offers buyers a mix of conventional and hybrid powertrains aimed at consumers seeking affordable luxury and modern styling. To support this growth, Novel Motor Group partnered with WesBank to launch a green special on all hybrid vehicles.
Meanwhile, Chinese commercial vehicle manufacturer Foton is also strengthening its foothold in Namibia’s transport and logistics sectors.
The company continues to expand its range of light and medium commercial vehicles, including the Foton Truck Mate and Foton Miler, while also targeting lifestyle and business users with the double-cab Foton V7 and Foton V9.
The V7 and V9 feature a 48-volt mild hybrid system designed to improve fuel economy while reducing emissions, reflecting a broader industry shift toward electrification and cleaner mobility solutions.
Novel Motor Company, which represents Jetour, OMODA JAECOO and Foton in Namibia, believes the future of the local market will increasingly be defined by vehicles that blend affordability with electrified technology.
Marketing Coordinator Maria Timoteus explained that all three brands are introducing products capable of charging or incorporating hybrid systems, reflecting rising consumer interest in fuel-efficient and environmentally conscious mobility solutions.
Timoteus also pointed to a planned public test-drive event on Saturday, 6 June 2026, where consumers will have an opportunity to experience the latest models and technologies firsthand.
For decades, Namibia’s vehicle market was dominated by traditional Japanese, European and American brands. However, the latest awards and growing sales figures suggest Chinese manufacturers are no longer competing on price alone.
Instead, they are winning customers through a combination of cutting-edge technology, modern design, long warranty packages and electrified powertrains.
Moreover, as fuel costs remain a concern and buyers increasingly demand more value from their vehicles, Jetour, OMODA JAECOO and Foton appear well positioned to accelerate their growth, signalling a new era for the domestic automotive industry.
[email protected]
