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The 2023 South African Car Of The Year on Thursday, the 1st of June 2023, was awarded to the new Ford Ranger that launched locally at the end of 2022. Gauteng Economic Development MEC Tasneem Motara congratulates Ford Motor Company for winning the prestigious Car of the Year Award. This is the first time in the competition's 37-year history that a double cab 4x4 bakkie has been crowned the overall winner. This remarkable achievement is a testament to Ford's unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and the pursuit of automotive perfection.

Ford has a long-standing reputation for producing exceptional vehicles that captivate drivers around the world. The Car of the Year Award recognises Ford's dedication to pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering and design, consistently delivering cutting-edge vehicles that embody quality, performance, and customer satisfaction.

MEC Motara commends Ford for its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The company's continuous efforts in developing eco-friendly technologies and electric vehicle solutions play a vital role in shaping a greener and more sustainable future for the automotive industry.

The Gauteng Department of Economic Development (GDED) through one of its entities, the Automotive Industry Development Centre (AIDC), has partnered with Ford in delivering an incubation programme aimed at transforming the automotive industry. The incubation programme is designed to groom and prepare Black industrialists to become independent suppliers in the automotive value chain, which operates on a global scale. 

GDED is excited to witness the ongoing advancements and innovations from Ford and the positive impact they will have on the automotive landscape. We look forward to seeing how Ford will continue to shape the future of mobility, pushing boundaries, and delivering ground-breaking vehicles that exceed customer expectations.

Once again, congratulations to Ford Motor Company on this well-deserved recognition. GDED wishes Ford continued success in their future endeavours and applauds their contributions to the automotive industry.

Issued by Gauteng Department of Economic Development