Bajaj Auto in South Africa

Bajaj Auto’s Strategic Moves and Challenges in South Africa

Johannesburg, August 6, 2025 – Bajaj Auto, a prominent Indian motorcycle manufacturer, has been actively expanding its footprint in South Africa through strategic partnerships, product innovations, and addressing regulatory challenges.

Partnerships and Product Innovations

In May 2025, Bajaj South Africa partnered with Picup, a leading logistics platform, to enhance last-mile delivery services. This collaboration aims to equip Picup drivers with Bajaj Boxer 150 delivery bikes, improving uptime, reducing operational costs, and boosting driver safety and productivity. Mikael Cloete, Business Head of Bajaj South Africa, emphasized the importance of this partnership in redefining last-mile delivery in the country. (itweb.co.za)

In June 2025, Bolt South Africa’s key fleet partner, MyNextCar (MNC), secured $10 million in funding to expand its operations. This investment is set to roll out 1,500 Bajaj vehicles across South Africa by the end of 2025, aiming to provide more earning opportunities and improve accessibility for riders. Lerato Motsoeneng, Senior General Manager at Bolt South Africa, highlighted the significance of this expansion in reshaping South African transport by offering accessibility and affordability through the Bolt Lite category. (itweb.co.za)

Bajaj South Africa has also introduced the Bajaj Chetak, an electric scooter, to the local market. The Chetak boasts a lithium-ion battery offering a range of 153 km on a single charge and a top speed of 73 km/h. Charging takes approximately three hours to reach 80% capacity using a standard household socket. The scooter features an all-metal body, a touchscreen TFT dashboard with built-in navigation, accident detection, theft alerts, and connectivity for music and calls. Mikael Cloete expressed excitement about introducing the Chetak to South Africa, emphasizing Bajaj’s commitment to providing innovative and eco-friendly mobility options. (zabikers.co.za)

Regulatory Challenges and Industry Response

Despite these advancements, Bajaj Auto has faced regulatory challenges in South Africa. In August 2023, Gauteng traffic police impounded 29 Bajaj Qute vehicles operating on the Bolt ride-hailing platform, citing the lack of valid operating licenses. This action led to protests from e-hailing drivers and operators, who argued that the impoundments were unjustified and adversely affected their livelihoods. Bolt’s regional manager for East and Southern Africa, Takura Malaba, criticized the impoundments as incoherent, noting that no explanation or impoundment documentation was provided to the affected drivers. (news24.com)

In response to safety concerns, Bajaj South Africa initiated a rider training scheme in partnership with the Radah Skills Academy. The program offers extensive rider training, mentorship, and placement opportunities in the delivery sector, aiming to empower South African youth and enhance road safety. The six-month program includes support services such as New Venture Creation courses, assistance with obtaining learner’s and driver’s licenses, and connections to major delivery platforms like Takealot and Mr D. (zabikers.co.za)

Leadership and Strategic Enhancements

In June 2024, Bajaj South Africa appointed Mikael Cloete as Business Head. Cloete, formerly with Hero South Africa, brings a wealth of experience and strategic insight from the financial and motorcycle industries. Under his leadership, Bajaj plans to introduce new models across the 2, 3, and 4-wheeler range, including innovative compressed natural gas (CNG) and electric vehicle (EV) variants, to strengthen its market presence in South Africa. The company is also focusing on a dealer-centric approach, aiming to empower dealers and deliver superior service to customers. (zabikers.co.za)

Bajaj Auto’s initiatives in South Africa reflect its commitment to innovation, strategic partnerships, and addressing industry challenges to enhance its presence in the local market.