Leslie Ramsoomar
China’s GAC Motor has appointed Salvador Caetano Auto as the distributor and retailer of GAC vehicles, spare parts and related services in South Africa (SA).
GAC Motor is a subsidiary of the State-owned GAC Group, and was founded in 1997. The brand joins a rapidly growing number of Chinese vehicles on sale in South Africa.
Founded in 1946, Salvador Caetano Group is an international automotive group present in Europe, South America and Africa, in more than 41 countries.
“This agreement settles the beginning of an important milestone for Salvador Caetano Auto, starting with our presence in South Africa, with the possibility to enlarge this partnership to other markets in the future,” says Salvador Caetano Auto global automotive distribution CEO Sérgio Ribeiro.
“This strategic partnership marks the beginning of a significant investment that will enable us to rapidly establish GAC Motor as a relevant automotive player in South Africa.”
Salvador Caetano SA will be led by MD Leslie Ramsoomar, former Stellantis SA boss.
Salvador Caetano SA says this “signals a strategic move to accelerate innovation and growth in the automotive sector”.
“I am delighted at the opportunity to head up this exciting new project with Salvador Caetano Group and GAC Motor,” says Ramsoomar.
“This project gives us an opportunity to bring high-quality products that meet the evolving needs of our customers, while contributing significantly to the South African economy and job market.”