Cars

Electric vehicles (EVs) are at the forefront of automotive innovation, pushing the boundaries of what is possible with vehicle design and functionalities. The evolution of the technology has attracted the biggest market in a record time compared to the hybrid and the reasons are informed by a multitude of benefits such as lower running costs, reduced environmental impact, reduced taxes and a more enjoyable driving experience.  This growing demand for EVs has led to an increasing number of EV producers to a record 300 companies currently as a direct response to a sharp rising market demand. The world’s largest EV producer is Tesla from USA. Within China BYD is the market leader and other major Chinese EV companies include XPeng, Nio, and Li Auto. Chinese automobile state-owned enterprises (SOEs) that previously specialised in traditional cars, such as SAIC, GAC, and BAIC, as well as private car manufacturers like Geely and Great Wall (Changcheng), have also entered the EV market.  Even non-automobile companies have decided to ride the EV wave.  Huawei and Xiaomi, two of China’s largest smartphone companies, now have their own EV brands. The disgraced real estate giant Evergrande also had ambitious EV plans before the company collapsed into chaos. Besides these large brands, many lesser-known EV companies still manage to capture customers. The recent tarrifs war involving the USA, the European Union and China has brought new challenges to the Chinese EV manufacturers. The tariffs halted the exports of these EVs to those specific markets resulting in China becoming overstocked of these cars that has exposed its production overcapacity. But it is important to mention that the boom is the manufacturing of these EVs in China was not only for the export market but also for the domestic market. In China the equivalent of Uber is called Didi and apparently most of the drivers have switched from gasoline cars to EVs. Many of these drivers explain that EVs allow them to save several hundred yuan per month, as electricity is much cheaper than gasoline. But with oversupply of the EVs currently has created an unhealthy domestic “price war” between the Chinese EV producers. This story creates a big impression of all things going bad for the EVs business. But l look at it differently.  I see an opportunity for the EV manufacturers to create partnerships with dealerships in Africa where the market for EVs is still untapped. The recent success by some Chinese EV companies to enter the South African market such as BYD, Cherry Auto and Great Wall Motor (GWM) is a true testimony of what l am talking about. But perhaps instead of jumping into the sales strategy l think the potential partners need  to invest into solar powered charging points first because electricity supply is not as consistent in majority of the African countries. Moreover, China’s local governments have a strong interest in ensuring the survival and success of local car factories – regardless of market conditions.  I, therefore, see strong government to government collaborations particularly on charging infrastructure setup in different counties or provinces within Africa. Tapping from the Chinese local government’s strong interest it could make the joint ventures (JVs) get quick approvals if the African governments also approach China from their county or provincial government departments instead of the central governments. One notable example is Hefei, the capital of Anhui province, which became the site of BYD’s super factory in 2021. The Hefei government made tremendous efforts to support and facilitate BYD’s investment. The negotiation between BYD and the Hefei government took only 23 days, an unprecedented speed for any local Chinese government.  When BYD claimed that the factory location was not flat enough for construction, the Hefei government mobilised over 1,000 trucks to move dirt and create a flat surface overnight.   The BYD factory became the anchor of Hefei’s EV industry, attracting BYD’s suppliers and leading to the emergence of a complete EV supply chain. Following BYD’s success, other car producers followed suit. Currently, there are more than six EV manufacturers and over 500 EV parts suppliers operating in Hefei. As a result, Hefei earned the reputation as China’s “EV capital”. In 2023, the Wuhan Economic Development District adopted an action plan aimed at significantly enhancing the quality of Wuhan’s EV industry within two years.  The goal of this plan is to establish Wuhan’s EV sector as a national leader. A “major leader” from the district heads the EV Development Leadership Small Group (LSG), which coordinates the implementation of the action plan.  The LSG includes notable agencies such as the district’s Development and Reform Committee, Economic and Information Bureau, Investment Attraction Bureau, traffic police, and other organisations related to the auto industry.  The LSG has established its office within the Economic and Information Bureau, which is tasked with overseeing the daily implementation of the plan. This arrangement grants the Economic and Information Bureau – traditionally a weaker agency with limited policy enforcement tools – the authority to drive the action plan’s execution. Under the action plan, SOEs such as Dongfeng serve as the “dragon head” of EV development. In practice, this means that the plan aims to transfer technology to Dongfeng and its current suppliers. The ultimate goal is to bolster Wuhan’s local car manufacturers and make them nationally and internationally competitive.  This goes to confirm the big opportunity for us here in Africa to structure partnerships that attracts the confidence in buying the EVs by the local market and tap into the benefits that is triggering the rapid expansion of this industry. Besides creating employment to many Africans this opportunity has the best capacity to increase the average number of cars to person currently at 44 vehicles per 1,000 people compared to the global average of 180 and 800 in the United States. In Zimbabwe there are 11 cars for every 100 people and, therefore, we really have a need to increase the number of cars. So the overcapacity of the EVs manufacturing in China is indeed a blessing in disguise

The Nissan AD van is among the current cheapest cars in Japan, which is slowly gaining popularity in Zimbabwe. This Nissan is a station wagon car that has an impressive design and is generous on its boot space offering spacious interior and functionalities that connects with an African motorist or family. It comes with a choice of four engines that include 1.2-litreCR12DE, 1.5-litre HR15DE, 1.6-litre HR16DE, and 1.8-litre MR18DE petrol engines.    It has an angular body with an extended face; its sporty design provides comfort and a magical driving experience. This five-seater is pretty competitive due to its class-leading features and functionalities that are outstanding in every way.  Its engine is linked to either 3- or 4-speed automatic transmission with fewer human interventions allowing you to enjoy stress-free driving. The interior is impressively built of high-quality upholstery that lasts long. It is very spacious, with both the front and back seats offering ample legroom and headroom even for tall passengers.  The Nissan AD van has adequate luggage capacity and can be customised by folding the back seats to create more room.  This allows the car to be multifunctional to the Zimabwean motorist in which one can use it to transport goods as a business while accommodating up to seven passengers for a large family. In this country where the public transport system is not yet well structured many have started using it for mushika-shika kind of transport business. When compared with the option to use a Toyota Wish one finds it better because of a lower purchase price and lower fuel consumption. Its standard features include power steering, power lock doors, air conditioning, stereo speaker.  It is also packed with high-end GX variant features that include satellite navigation, keyless entry, power windows, and climate control.   This vehicle’s updated engine technologies enable it to be fuel-efficient with minimum carbon footprints.   Its average fuel consumption is 13.00km/L, which is relatively lower than most cars within its range making it idle for business to make better profits.  This Nissan AD van is a direct competitor with the Toyota Succeed and Toyota Probox. These cars have several similarities, but one significant difference is the fuel economy of the AD is lower than the rest. It is related to the famous Nissan Sunny that has similar ease of drive and adequate space.  Overall, this car’s excellent performance and spacious interior give other brands a run for their money. But must say the seats are hard and tend to be uncomfortable for long journeys. The Nissan AD van FOB price from Japan is ranging from $1,500 to $3,500 depending with the grade, mileage and engine type. The cheapest route to import the vehicle into Zimbabwe is via Dar es Salaam port with the cost, insurance and freight (CIF) being between $3,500 to $4,800 also depending with the specific condition of each car. The total landing price to Harare including all other costs and taxes are quite friendly compared to other cars; ranging from $7,500 to $8,500 for a 2015 model being the minimum age allowed in the country. In my view it is more affordable considering a combination of the specs, features, and interior space that this car offers.  Having evolved longer than most cars, this model has made design and feature tweaks to fit the user’s needs growing its popularity widely.  This Nissan is on a path to create a success story in this country based on its low price while offering the best of features and functionalities measured with the growing number of vehicles on the Zimbabwean road being used for business. The beauty about this car model is its wide selection of engines.  The1.2-litre CR12DE is idle for those sensitive about the fuel consumption, but interested in carrying voluminous goods. The 1.5-litre HR15DE and the 1.6-litre HR16DE fits to those requiring a little bit of power and perhaps covering relatively longer distances every day. And if you really need more power and perhaps driving through bad roads then the 1.8-litre MR18DE AWD can do the job for you in any road terrain.     In this country we have cars like the Honda Fit, which became the darling of every motorist but when I look at the main reasons the whole thing was influenced by pricing. So I see the same story unfolding through this Nissan AD van. Of course the Honda Fit benefited from an old policy where there was no age limit on the cars that could be imported back then and that made the majority of people be able to afford it. However, the Nissan AD van is coming at a time when the regulations allows only cars that are not older than 10 years and the total landing costs is much higher than what pushed the Honda Fit into this market. Nissan is a common brand that is fairly acceptable locally, but the availability is critical to create convenience to the motorist driving this model. The speed at which people can get the spares will be influenced by the number of units that can be imported into the country at a shorter period where the accident damaged units will feed the parts supplies. It is my advice that those buying these cars at this stage should improve the security of the cars by reverting all the view mirrors, putting car identity on all the car windows and fitting lock nuts on the tyres among others. Furthermore, it is advisable that motorists maintain the recommended service intervals at 5 000kms to keep its performance to remain perfect. I say this because it seems like most people deliberately do not want to service their cars and only do so when it breaks down. *Stanley Makombe has 25 years of experience in the motor industry, currently handling vehicle imports from Japan, Thailand, the UK, and South Africa into African countries. He is writing in his capacity and can be contacted on +254 743 900 590, on X @Stan_Carsales, email: stanley@stanleymakombe.com, www.stanleymakombe.com

South Africa is the most convenient source of vehicles into Zimbabwe for both brand new and used cars. The country has a robust motor industry policy that is styled the Motor Industry Development Plan (MIDP) that is responsible for creating a business environment that is conducive for manufacturing and export of cars to flourish. Toyota, Ford, Isuzu, Nissan, Hyundai, Mercedes Benz, BMW, Mahindra and VW manufacturing companies are home to South Africa. The entire automotive industry is one of their largest economic and export sectors that contributes significantly to its Gross Domestic Product (GDP). It is this background that creates an ecosystem for the continuous supply of used vehicles that our country and other African nations feed its demands for vehicles. The South African government policy doesn’t allow grey imports of used cars from Japan like in all other African countries. The policy has been managed and implemented very well, hence the local consumption of the brand new cars from its manufacturing plants is very high tapping from its population of 63 million people that has over the time created a car population of around 12,1 million vehicles registered and running. Zimbabwe being neighbours with South Africa makes the delivery lead time to importers of vehicles be the quickest compared to Japan, UK and Thailand. I know for a fact that the majority of the dealers prefer quicker delivery, which helps them in creating a better turnover while end users are naturally impatient to receive their cars over a month when money is available. So quick delivery is priority number one. However, while South Africa takes away this advantage compared to other supply markets but there is a dark side that vehicle importers should pay attention to without being blinded by this “quick delivery” benefit. There are three particular risks exposed to the importers when choosing to buy used cars from South Africa. Online price scamming Criminals in South Africa place adverts for fake vehicles online at hugely discounted prices to lure in buyers hunting for a great bargain. The fake vehicle adverts are relatively sophisticated and usually include photos to match the vehicle description with the contact details of the so-called seller. Fraudsters appear to be genuine sellers by being willing to provide additional information together with a convincing explanation for the massive discount. The criminals then pressure buyers into making an urgent deposit or full payment in order to secure the vehicle. Once payment is made the scammer disappears and the buyer is left without a vehicle and their hard-earned cash. Therefore, it is important that customers and dealers looking for used cars from South Africa to exercise extreme caution when engaging with unknown individuals online and use whatever means at their disposal to verify the details of the seller and the vehicle being sold. Buying a car is a serious financial commitment and is a process that shouldn’t be rushed. My advice is that if anyone wants to import a used car from South Africa is it only safe to do when dealing with a person that you properly know as someone who is credible and honest. The local dealers should have been the point of help but unfortunately it is a risk route too unless you are 100% sure that they are credible to front your imports for a small fee. Importing accident damaged vehicles There is a prevalent of selling unfit and unsafe vehicles by the dealers that are classified as code three cars. In South African terms the code three cars are those motor vehicles that were involved in an accident before and subsequently declared unfit for use as a motor vehicle. As an industry standard the motor vehicles will be permanently unfit for use because the extent of the damage includes some structural defects that will require substantial rebuilding. Such vehicles may not be re-registered in South Africa and hence their market is mostly the foreign countries such as Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique that import a lot of used cars. Buying clones vehicles Cloning of cars usually involves copying the identity of a legitimate vehicle and applying it to another car. This typically includes swapping the license plates, VIN numbers, and other identifying information from the legitimate vehicle onto the cloned vehicle. This can make a stolen vehicle appear to be legitimate. According to my research the cloning of vehicles in South Africa is a lucrative business that has evolved from the classic tampering of identifiers and introducing the vehicle with false identifiers on registration systems to the sophisticated cloning that is reported to be doing between 3 000 and 5 000 cars each year. With such a high number of units that gets cloned every year the chances of you buying one without knowing is very high. However, there are ways you can use to avoid being conned when you are in the market to import a used vehicle from South Africa including; Ensure that the vehicle you are negotiating to import is registered in the name of the seller. Be cautious if the registration certificate is recent and if the seller’s “story” or sales pitch does not match what is stated on the registration certificate. Become suspicious when the seller is insisting on doing a cash transaction or meeting in a public space, or if you cannot confirm the seller’s location. Ensure the vehicle has all the keys, and the keys unlock all the locks. Be on the look-out for marks around the dashboard where clips and screws are missing. When vehicles are stolen, they are often stripped to remove tracking devices, resulting in damage to the dashboard. Compare the dates on components such as safety belts and restraining systems with the vehicle’s year model provided by the seller. Compare the registration certificate and licence disc with the stamped VIN, as well as the data label of the vehicle. The location will be indicated in the service book and/or manual. If there is no service book or the first owner’s details

The organisations staff car purchasing schemes have become one of the attractive employee retention models around the world. The human resources expert’s states that staff motivation schemes are crucial for organisational success because it directly impacts employee engagement, performance and retention that ultimately leads to higher productivity and profitability.  Motivated employees in any company and in any country are more likely to be committed to their roles, contribute to brand loyalty, and stay with the company longer, resulting in reduced turnover and operating costs.  The Zimbabwe government’s adoption of the duty-free car import facility resonates with the above and I couldn’t agree with them more. In order to qualify for the rebate, the public servant must submit an application letter, a recommendation letter from the responsible permanent secretary confirming employment, a copy of the intended beneficiary serving public servant’s driver’s license, a purchase invoice for the motor vehicle being imported and an approval letter from CMED for the loan in the case of funding from the CMED transport purchase fund. The regulations for this facility that are contained in Statutory Instrument 247 of 2023 gazetted on December 29 in 2024 by Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion minister Mthuli Ncube empowers the civil servants of Zimbabwe to become more productive. The civil servants and those employed by other service commissions, the rebate on duty is intended only for those who are not issued with a condition-of-service vehicle, thus excluding senior civil servants who do get a government car as part of their package.  The regulations stipulate that a rebate of duty shall be granted in respect of one motor vehicle imported or taken out of bond by a serving public servant of Zimbabwe who is employed in the civil service and service commissions and who is not a senior civil servant issued with a condition of service motor vehicle and should not be under any disciplinary proceedings. The condition that one should not be under disciplinary proceedings increases loyalty to management and organisational rules.   Anyone who qualifies should secure the money to buy the car from either a loan availed under the Transport Purchase Fund managed through CMED (Private) Limited or the serving public servant’s own resources. The car should solely be for the private and business use of the serving public servant and not for commercial or trade purposes.  I believe that this emphasis is important on the backdrop of previous abuses by other civil servants who risked this benefit being cancelled by government. For those in grades B and C, the vehicle should be valued up to US$2 500, for D and E the vehicle should be valued up to US$4 000 while those at deputy director level the maximum is US$10 000. The civil servants should have been in government’s employ for at least 10 years while the vehicle should also not be more than 10- years-old from the date of manufacture. For public health workers employed by the Health Services Board or grant-aided health facilities, including junior doctors, the service requirement drops to at least two years while the vehicles they can import should be valued between US$2 500 and US$15 000 with the latter being for specialist doctors. It is a condition of this duty-free scheme that the beneficiaries should not sell the cars before expiry of five years from the date of importation of a motor vehicle. They are prohibited from offering or displaying for sale, lease or hire the same motor vehicle to any other person in respect of which a rebate of duty on such motor vehicle was granted, without the prior written permission of the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority commissioner. In the event that anyone sells the vehicle before the five years are up they will have to pay Zimra the residual duty, including interest on the assessed duty. It is good timing to be writing about this duty-free facility for civil servants on  May 1 being a Workers Day worldwide. Of course I know you are reading this article May 4, but I submit my articles with a deadline of every Thursday because of editing and printing time.  This benefit is strategic more so in the appreciation that having a car goes beyond the need for transport — it boosts confidence to human beings — it improves the image of the person and in the African beliefs is it a sign of success.  Apparently, in 2015 as the managing director of World Navi Zimbabwe I approached the Public Service Commission and submitted a proposal for the commission to consider allowing civil servants to be allowed a benefit to import used cars once every five years on duty-free in which our company was seeking to be the supplier of the vehicles into 10 bonded warehouses across all the major towns of Zimbabwe. I was allowed to do some presentations and my partners from Japan were in attendance. It was during the same period that we managed to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with BancABC Bank, which is now Atlas Mara. Under the MoU we were the supplier of used cars to civil servants and Bank Easy Microfinance, a division of BancABC would give 100% finance to the civil servants to import cars from us. I am not suggesting that I influenced the government of Zimbabwe to introduce the duty-free facility to the civil servants on used cars, but I am happy to see that something that I had a vision about and took steps to breathe life into it was eventually implemented and indeed today people are benefiting from it. There are many downstream benefits to this scheme, including increased clearing and forwarding business, increased volume of sales to the local dealers and increased exports from the exporters from Japan and other countries. But I strongly believe that here is still room for improvement to make the scheme operate seamlessly by strengthening the product purchasing points within all the provinces of the country so that civil servants do no travel far

The BMW X1 demand in Europe and Asian markets proves the brand’s success story while giving strong competition to the likes of the Audi Q3, Mercedes Benz GLA, Volvo XC40, Lexus UX, Porsche Macan, and Range Rover Evoque. From the exterior styling to the interior detailing, from engine performance to sharpened gear shifts, from the light steering to the responsive wheels, everything has been refined and finely tuned surpassing the expectations of many who love the BMW brand. The trade-in units of the X1 in Japan and South Africa feeds the market in Zimbabwe to specific customers who can’t afford the high-end models like the BMW X3. The BMW X1 was designated as E84 which made its debut in 2009 and the production continued up to 2015. The second generation X1 started in 2016 to 2021 and was code named F48/F49. It showed significant improvements and tweaks both in the exterior & interior. The BMW X1 is currently in its third generation of production branded as U11/U12 powered by two engine options, a 2.0 L Turbocharged Petrol and a 2.0 L 4-cylinder Turbocharged Diesel connected to an 8-speed automatic transmission. The petrol engine consumption 15.2 km/l on average while the 2.0 L Turbocharged Diesel version jumps up to 19.1 km/l on average. 2020 BMW X1 Grades BMW X1 sDrive 28i- This grade has Bluetooth connectivity, Apple Car Play & Android Auto, rain-sensing wipers, parking sensors, a rearview camera, dual-zone climate control, multiple airbags, dynamic stability control, forward collision warning, anti-lock braking system, AUX/USB port, LED headlights & daytime running lights, and a centralized door lock. BMW X1 xDrive 28i- This grade boasts a sunroof, Apple Car Play & Android Auto, a tire pressure monitoring system, ambient interior lighting with customizable colours, 18-inch alloy wheels, panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, blind spot monitor, dual-zone climate control, lane departure warning, power-adjustable seats, memory seats, automatic high beams, leather-accented steering wheel, power liftgate, and a panoramic sunroof. Legroom and space The 2020 BMW X1 boasts a luxurious cabin that combines space, practicality, and comfort. Stepping into the car you are engulfed in a relaxing atmosphere that embodies affluence. You perhaps don’t drive it, you proudly ride in a BMW. At the centre of the dashboard sits an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system embedded with Apple Car Play and Android Auto ensuring the passengers experience enhanced connectivity. Satellite navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, AUX/USB ports, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof are all incorporated in this car. The first row has ample legroom and headroom.  The second row is equally impressive offering plenty of knee room and headroom. Individuals with households will find it ideal owing to its spacious cabin and practicality. Cabin  and storage The 2020 BMW X1 encompasses multiple storage compartments that are used to either keep or hold the gears of its occupants for ease of access and reach. The first row has a glove box, door panel storage, a center console, and two cup holders. The second row has two cup holders mounted on the armrest, door pockets, and jacket pockets. Boot space The 2020 BMW X1 has 505 litRE of boot space when all seats are in use and can be expanded to 1,550 liters when the rear seats have been folded. Exterior The 2020 BMW X1 has undergone subtle refinements slightly departing from its predecessors on the exterior styling. Sculpted surfaces and sleek lines have been enhanced adding an aggressive and bold touch. The body kit is also muscular lending it an imposing appearance. The signature kidney grille has been somewhat enlarged for an authoritative look and it is flanked by high beam LED headlights and daytime running lights. The wheel arches are more pronounced and the character lines have been emboldened enhancing the dynamism of the X1 for improved performance and efficiency. The 18-inch alloy wheels not only have a commanding presence but also provide excellent grip on the road. The rear can also be distinguished from its predecessors. The adaptive LED tail lights and turn signals add a distinctive touch to the X1. The power liftgate promotes convenience when either loading or offloading freight. A roof spoiler is neatly integrated with the gently sloping roofline adding a sporty appearance. The 2020 BMW X1 is available in a spectrum of colors catering to its wide fan base. 2020 BMW X1 safety features The 2020 BMW X1 features multiple airbags, traction control, dynamic stability control, an anti-lock braking system, a tyre pressure monitoring system, automatic emergency braking, a rear-cross traffic alert, lane departure warning, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and an active driving assistant plus. Stability and handling The 2020 BMW X1 seamlessly combines sportiness and engaging driving dynamics. The suspension system is finely tuned providing a comfortable ride and sharp handling. The steering wheel is telescopic & power-assisted making the driver to be in full control of the vehicle. The X1 comes standard with an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) configuration that ensures power is equally distributed to all the wheels for improved traction. The X1 sits in a rigid chassis that enhances its agility. The engine works in tandem with the transmission system delivering a smooth start and decent acceleration. The brakes are robust and boast a high stopping power that can bring this car to a complete stop in seconds. Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) improves the vehicle’s stability whether driving on the highway or uneven road surfaces. Reliability BMW’s longevity in automobile production has largely contributed to its unrivaled prowess when it comes to reliability. The X1 is a product of such engineering hence its long-running production. The powertrains have been used by its predecessors thus it is anticipated not to experience any mechanical issues.  But be that as it may, the X1 is not immune to problems. Glitches in the infotainment system and transmission issues have been reported. Regular service and maintenance are required to keep this car in optimal condition. Refer to the BMW X1’s buyer’s guide for a thorough reliability report. We also urge you to always follow

Importing used cars for use in Zimbabwe constitutes 85% of the vehicles being driven by the majority of motorists. Cheap pricesfor used cars is the key motivation for buyers to choose them in comparison to the brand new vehicles. The Japanese used cars dominates among other sources such as UK, Thailand, Singapore or our neighbors, South Africa mostly as a result of offering the best condition at the lowest prices. While importing has been made so easy because of online adverts and dealer representations locally but there are important things that one should improve upon receiving their used car before driving it. I know that it is very common among motorist to immediately go celebrating with friends and family soon after receiving their long awaited motor vehicle, but l strongly recommendyou to remain calm and do the below listed improvements first before embarking on a long journey or just taking a spin of over 100kms; Engine service The car you have imported is pre-owned and it automatically means somebody was driving it from the country you imported it. While the car owners in Europe and Asia take excellent care of their cars, it is still important to start on a fresh slate. Take your vehicle for a full engine service to be confident as you drive it. The service should include the braking system and tightening of bolts and nuts to ensure that everything is in perfect condition. If your imported vehicle is a diesel engine, then you should get a mechanic to remove the catalytic converter, which is usually located between the exhaust manifold and the muffler. If you delay in removing it, you may experience some reduced performance and increased fuel consumption. Tyre change It is not safe to start driving a used car with its old tires as the age, condition and unknown history may compromise road grip, handling and the braking that can potentially lead to accidents. Majority of imported used cars come fitted with snow tyres that are not idle for our whether conditions locally. Although sometimes the tyres may be looking good from the way you look at them but they may have some hidden damages like weakened sidewalls, internal belt damage or some punctures that may not be immediately visible. So in order to avoid experiencing some performance issues caused by uneven wear that can cause increased braking distance and poor handling, it is advisable to buy new tyres or good used ones for you to drive your car with absolute confidence. Insurance Motor vehicle license, insurance, and the radio licence are all mandatory in Zimbabwe and you cannot drive your car without them.  I understand that when cars are cleared at the border there is a third party insurance that is purchased at that point. However, that type of insurance does not cover your own , hence you should consider taking the comprehensive cover that offers compensation to the car, driver and third parties involved in the accident with you. Accidents do not have a timetable, hence you should avoid procrastinating to buy it and transfer the risk to the insurance company. Car tracking These days there are too many criminals targeting some particular vehicles and your imported car may just be what they are looking for. So it is advisable to get the tracking device fitted on the same day it arrives at home. The advantages of installing car track are obvious. Installing a tracker from a reputable company allows you to: Car identity Car identity is etching of the registration number on side mirrors, windows and front lights etc. This is a great deterrent to petty thieves; no one will steal a marked mirror.  Car identity is also important because it helps to identify your car in instances of theft where the registration plates are missing. Securing spare tyre and removable parts The unfortunate reality in Zimbabwe and particularly the main city centres like Harare, Bulawayo, Mutare and Masingo is that petty crimes are so high. You need to secure your spare tyre especially for 4WDs, so that it’s not easily removed. Other small removable parts make sure that you get them riveted in to make it difficult to remove them. Install sump guard A sump guard is a metal plate fitted under the chassis of the car to protect it from mud, corrosion, debris and other impact especially when going off road. If your car has lower clearance and you sometimes have to drive it to your home area where the roads are not tarred, then you surely need to install the sump guard.  Install alarm system Installing an alarm system on your car is important to enhance security and deter theft from happening. This will certainly bring some peace of mind as you drive your new investment. Once you have strong security around your car then it is easier to get on with other soft things like the radio system. Like in the case of cars coming from Japan, unfortunately, majority of them come with radios that do not work in Zimbabwe. A good sound system in your car helps you enjoy the car as you sing along your type of music. Importing cars take between 60 to 120 days depending on where you are bringing it from. Therefore, it would sound justifiable to lose patients from driving the car immediately after receiving it. However,  the majority of the things l have mentioned above must be done before embarking on a long distance trip so that you can protect your asset that is usually the second most expensive after your house. A full valet wash is also essential to remove cigarette smoke, stains and get it clean after a long road trip from the Dar es Salaam port or from Beitbridge border post. Stanley Makombe has 25 years of experience in the motor industry, currently handling vehicle imports from Japan, Thailand, the UK, and South Africa into African countries. He is writing in his capacity and can

Lexus South Africa recently launched the all-new GX 550 in South Africa, setting a benchmark in the premium off-road SUV segment. With a perfect blend of power, sophistication, and cutting-edge technology, the new GX is designed to meet the needs of both urban explorers and off-road adventurers alike. Although there is no official Lexus dealership in Zimbabwe but the local market can import directly from South Africa which takes about three weeks for the customer to take possession of the car if it is already in stock. This remarkable vehicle encapsulates Lexus’ commitment to innovation and luxury, offering an unrivalled balance of rugged capability and refined comfort.  The Lexus GX was built based on the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado (J250) but with numerous design differences that suits those who seek the extraordinary in the finishes, the GX invites drivers to explore new horizons with confidence. This clearly confirms the fact that Lexus is the luxury version of Toyota. The Lexus GX has been a staple in luxury off-road SUVs for over two decades in North America and Eurasian markets, though it’s only now debuting in South Africa which will feed the rest of Africa markets. The first-generation GX 470 launched in 2002, blending Toyota Land Cruiser Prado toughness with premium comfort and was powered by a 4.7L V8 and full-time 4WD. The second-generation GX 460 (2009) introduced a more efficient 4.6L V8 and advanced Crawl Control for superior off-road handling. A 2013 facelift refined its design, safety, and tech, keeping it competitive. In 2019, a bold redesign brought sharper styling, an Off-Road Package with terrain management features, and Lexus Safety System+ as standard, cementing the GX’s reputation for capability and luxury. Built on the robust GA-F global architecture platform, the new GX retains its traditional body-on-frame construction while incorporating modern advancements that improve stability, handling, and overall performance. Its bold, sculpted design makes a powerful statement, with a commanding presence that stands out on any terrain.  The vehicle’s distinctive thick, squared-off bonnet and pulled-back front pillars reinforce its off-road prowess, while its wider stance and lower height enhance both visual impact and off-road stability. The signature spindle grille and sleek LED headlamps provide a sophisticated, dynamic look, while the high-positioned headlights and radiator cooling ducts are designed to prevent damage on rough terrains. According to vice president of marketing at Lexus South Africa, Glenn Crompton, the all-new GX is perfect for adventure-focused Lexus customers seeking a luxurious and tough SUV that can take them deep into the outdoors.  “The GX combines the best of both worlds, offering the luxury and craftsmanship Lexus is renowned for, ensuring comfort and refinement. “Its strong design, V6 performance, and improved 4×4 features – especially in the Overtrail grade – give it the credentials to tackle almost any terrain in South Africa. “The inclusion of a third row of seats in the SE grade adds seven-seat flexibility, offering an ideal solution for families seeking additional space,” says Crompton. Inside, the new GX offers an environment that is as luxurious as it is functional. The Tazuna cockpit places the driver at the centre of the experience, providing commanding visibility and intuitive access to controls. The fully digital instrument cluster and a generous 14-inch touchscreen multimedia system add to the advanced technology and convenience. The interior atmosphere is open and calming, designed with high-quality materials that emphasise comfort and style. The GX is available in both five- and seven-seat configurations, providing ample space for both passengers and gear. The Overtrail variant offers unique interior enhancements, including durable yet refined materials, distinctive trim accents, and state-of-the-art technology, ensuring both comfort and durability for off-road adventurers. At the heart of the new GX is a powerful twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 260kW and a remarkable 650Nm of torque. This enhanced powertrain ensures dynamic acceleration and exceptional performance on challenging terrain.  Paired with a 10-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission, the GX delivers smooth acceleration and robust towing performance. The Lexus GX SE is a refined and versatile seven-seater luxury SUV, delivering both performance and comfort.  Convenience features include a power back door with a kick sensor, auto-retractable side-step rails for ease of entry and exit, and a solid roof rail for added cargo versatility. The cabin is finished in luxurious semi-aniline leather with massaging front seats, ensuring comfort on long journeys. The Mark Levinson 14-inch display and 21-speaker premium sound system deliver a superior in-cabin entertainment experience, while the Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) assists with tight manoeuvres. For those seeking ultimate off-road performance, the GX Overtrail variant is tailored for extreme exploration. With exclusive design elements, including 18-inch wheels, all-terrain tyres, a 20mm wider tread, and reinforced under protector, the Overtrail is built for the most challenging environments. Advanced systems such as the Electronic-Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS) and Multi-Terrain Select (MTS) provide unmatched traction and stability on any terrain. With six modes – Auto, Dirt, Sand, Mud, Deep Snow, and Rock – drivers can adapt the GX Overtrail to a wide range of conditions. Additionally, the GX Overtrail features a central structure designed to support accessories, ensuring maximum personalisation for outdoor enthusiasts. Safety remains a priority for Lexus, with the new GX equipped with the latest Lexus Safety System. This intelligent suite includes Pre-Collision System (PCS), Lane Departure Alert (LDA), and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), offering enhanced protection for both the driver and passengers. All of these features combine to ensure the driver’s peace of mind no matter where they go on the road. The all-new Lexus GX is not just an SUV — it’s a statement of innovation, luxury, and adventure. Designed for those who seek to explore extraordinary places, the GX sets a new standard in the premium SUV segment. Whether conquering remote landscapes or navigating city streets, the GX is built to inspire and elevate every journey. With its superior capability, refined design, and relentless pursuit of perfection, the GX invites you to explore wherever the road leads. The GX (both SE and Overtrail)

In order to enforce the motor vehicle safety requirements several governments in Europe, Asia, USA and Africa introduced the recall system to the manufacturers. Japan introduced it in 1969, the USA in 1973, China in 2004 and South Africa in 2021. Since then the recalls have been happening every year for many millions of cars across the world seeking to protect consumers and ensure that faulty cars could be fixed by the manufacturers at no additional costs to the customers. In Japan there is no specific age limit for a car recall; recalls can occur regardless of the vehicle’s age if a safety issue is identified. As a result of the recalls involving the used cars l therefore would like to shed some light about these measures because it may actually involve your own car. A recall is announced on a car model when a latent defect is identified that can lead to a safety risk.  Usually this defect is found in a group of vehicles sharing the same flaw. Some of the risky defects that warrant a recall include; -Faulty airbags, -Faulty brakes, -Faulty steering, -Faulty electrical systems, -Faulty seat belts, -Faulty fuel system -Faulty transmission among others However, faults such as air conditioning, radio systems, paint quality and excessive oil consumption do not constitute a recall because they are not risky to human life. So if you own a second hand imported car from Japan, you can check the factory recall page for the relevant Japanese manufacturer to obtain this data for cars originating from Japan. Fortunately, this is quite simple to do by entering your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the recall check page of each manufacturer below, and Google translating to English; –Toyota Japan Import Car Factory Recall Check -Nissan Japan Import Car Factory Recall Check -Mitsubishi Japan Import Car Factory Recall Check -Mazda Japan Import Car Factory Recall Check -Honda Japan Import Car Factory Recall Check -Subaru Japan Import Car Factory Recall Check -Daihatsu Japan Import Car Factory Recall Check -Suzuki Japan Import Car Factory Recall Check Nissan made a recall involving the Serena, Ariya and Note models totaling 105 010 vehicles. These vehicles were manufactured between December 2021 and February 2024 and the reason for the recall is that due to the automatic locking function then getting out of the vehicle does not comply with safety standards. At the same time Honda also reported the recall of 97 543 ZR-V and Civic models manufactured from July 2021 to September 2024 due to a possible defect in a power steering component that may cause difficulty in steering operation.  Suzuki also announced a recall of 11,805 Burgman motorbikes manufactured between January 2014 to October 2022. The reason for the recall is that the fuel pump may crack after continued use under certain conditions. Toyota Motor Corporation recalled 1,6 million vehicles for defective air bags supplied by embattled Japanese manufacturer Takata Corporation. The recall includes 22 models sold in Japan, including the Corolla and Vitz, manufactured from January 2004 through December 2005, as well as vehicles in Italy, Britain and Spain, although those numbers are not 100% clear. The Takata inflators can explode with too much force, sending out shrapnel. At least eight people have so far been killed worldwide and hundreds got injured.  This problem has led to the recall of 19,2 million vehicles in the US and the government regulators are said to be investigating the matter.  Takata corporation was actually fined $70 million by the safety regulators for concealing evidence for years that its air bags are prone to explode. Under a five-year pact, the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration can increase the penalty to a record $200 million if the company fails to abide by the terms. However, in the case of many motorists in Zimbabwe driving used cars imported from Japan, UK, Thailand and South Africa you will experience a problem to get the recall repairs done because there is no business relationship between the used vehicle exporters and the local new vehicle dealerships who have an umbilical connection with the manufacturers. I know for a fact that if you imported a used vehicle from Japan and if your car model is included in the recall listing, you however, cannot access the compensation.  The reason that they cannot do the repairs is based on the jurisdiction after your car was exported from the country of first registration and it got de-registered and left Japan. I, however, object to this logic because the fact that the car got exported out of Japan to you in Zimbabwe doesn’t mean that the vehicle identification number (VIN) number has changed. Toyota or Mazda or Nissan companies from Japan are the same companies supplying brand new car models of similar brand locally through its distribution structures. So it boggles my mind why your used car cannot access the repairs funding when it is the same vehicle.  I also know for a fact that Japan as a big car manufacturing country, through their local investors and their distributors they want to keep expanding their markets for exporting the used vehicles which they receive back from leasing and trade-in transactions that create the ecosystem of used car stocks. I believe that these are some of the national issues that an association of the local used car dealers can handle with Japan Used Motor Vehicle Exporters Association (JUMVEA) to deliver value to its member’s customers.  In Australia when manufacturers are approached by consumers with imported vehicles listed on recall, they will assist by sourcing replacement parts from Japan and will arrange the replacement work through their dealer networks at no charge to the consumers. So this is what l equally expect to happen even here in Zimbabwe and the rest of Africa. Stanley Makombe has 25 years of experience in the motor industry, currently handling vehicle imports from Japan, Thailand, the UK, and South Africa into African countries. He is writing in his capacity and can be contacted on +254 743 900 590, on X