In South Africa, a bakkie is more than just a vehicle. It is a partner in your workday, a companion on weekend getaways, and a trusted family member when it is time to load up and hit the open road. Whether towing a trailer to the coast, heading into the bush for a camping trip, or hauling tools to a site, the right bakkie does not just get the job done; it becomes part of your lifestyle.
When South Africans talk bakkies, the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger always come first. The Hilux, an undisputed legend, has been the country’s best-selling vehicle for over 50 years, with 32,656 units sold in 2024 alone. Known for its durability, it has proven reliable through tough conditions on farms, construction sites, and South African roads for decades. The Hilux is respected for its toughness and long-lasting performance.
The Ford Ranger, locally manufactured and widely popular, has become the modern favorite. With 25,553 units sold in 2024, it leads the double-cab segment by blending rugged capability with stylish design and advanced technology. Urban drivers, from busy city centers to township communities, appreciate the Ranger’s modern features, though its premium price can put it out of reach for some buyers. Together, the Hilux and Ranger define South Africa’s motoring heritage and evolving preferences.
Beyond these two icons, other bakkies contribute significant value to the market:
The Isuzu D-MAX, with 18,973 units sold in 2024, is known for its reliability and low running costs. It is favored by farmers, construction workers, and tradespeople who require a dependable vehicle.
The Nissan Navara combines ruggedness with enhanced ride comfort thanks to its multi-link coil rear suspension. Its 6% sales growth in 2024 reflects growing popularity in both rural and urban areas.
The GWM P-Series 500, a practical and affordable option, appeals to families and first-time 4×4 buyers. Despite an 18% drop in 2024 sales, it introduces new buyers to the market and offers strong value.
The VW Amarok, benefiting from a partnership with Ford, experienced an 18.2% increase in sales to 3,957 units in 2024. It offers a premium interior and advanced technology, often chosen more for lifestyle purposes than heavy-duty work.
Each bakkie serves a different need: the Hilux for those prioritizing proven durability, the Ranger for buyers wanting modern features, the D-MAX for steady dependability, the P-Series for affordability, the Amarok for premium lifestyle appeal, and the Navara for versatility. The upcoming BYD Shark introduces hybrid and electric power to the market, offering strong performance but still facing questions about long-term durability and charging infrastructure suitability.
Looking forward, South Africa’s bakkie market faces environmental and economic challenges. Diesel engines remain dominant but contribute significantly to emissions, placing pressure on manufacturers and buyers to consider cleaner alternatives. Hybrids and electric bakkies like the BYD Shark represent emerging solutions, but their success depends on expanding charging networks and gaining consumer confidence in new technology under tough local conditions.
South African bakkies reflect a balance of heritage, utility, and innovation. Whether choosing the proven durability of the Hilux, the technological edge of the Ranger, or exploring emerging electric options, buyers have a broad range of choices suited to diverse needs. For every journey—whether work or leisure, keeping your bakkie well-maintained and properly equipped is essential for maximizing its performance and longevity.
Your bakkie is built for more. It is not just a vehicle; it is an essential part of daily life in South Africa.
Here at Towbar Experts, we have a unique view of the South African automotive landscape. We see the trends up close as we fit towbars to everything from rugged 4x4s to versatile family SUVs. Lately, a fascinating shift has taken hold in what adventure means to drivers across the country. It’s a showdown between two icons: the legendary Jeep Wrangler and the spirited Suzuki Jimny.
For decades, the Jeep Wrangler was the king of off-road. It’s a legend, an armored beast designed for conquering the toughest terrain. This is the dream machine, a status symbol for those who seek the ultimate expression of freedom. But let’s be frank: with a price tag well over a million rand and high running costs, the is a specialist’s choice. Its raw capability is phenomenal, but for many, it’s a vehicle more admired in a suburban driveway than truly utilized on remote mountain passes.
Then there’s the Suzuki Jimny, a marketing masterclass in understanding the modern South African adventurer. It didn’t try to outmuscle the Wrangler. Instead, it carved out its own path, proving that genuine, go-anywhere fun doesn’t have to break the bank. The Jimny has become a phenomenon, building a massive cult following because it delivers serious capability with a huge personality at a price that makes sense. Jimny owners aren’t just buying a car; they’re joining a vibrant community. They’re out there every weekend, exploring gravel roads, navigating coastal dunes, and actually using their vehicles for what they were built for because they can afford the daily adventure.
This tells a clear story: South Africans want real adventure, but they demand practicality and affordability too. The Wrangler remains a hero of a past era, admired for its heritage. The Jimny, however, is the new people’s champion, proving that serious fun doesn’t need financial strain.
Ready for Your Next Adventure? Trust Towbar Experts.
Whether you drive a Wrangler, a Jimny, or any other vehicle, having the right gear is crucial. We understand the specific needs of each car and provide the highest quality towbar solutions for every model. For the Jimny, we ensure a lightweight and durable towbar is installed to maintain its performance. For a Wrangler, our heavy-duty towbars are fitted to match its strength. We provide a wide range of towbar solutions, from heavy-duty towing to versatile bike rack mounts.
Ready to gear up for your next adventure?Contact us today and find the right towbar solution for your vehicle.
The open road. The distant coast. The mountain pass waiting to be explored.
For a growing number of South Africans, these journeys are no longer powered by petrol or diesel, but by the quiet strength and effortless torque of electric vehicles (EVs). Whether you’re towing a horsebox to the Midlands or heading down the Garden Route with a stylish caravan in tow, EVs are becoming the vehicle of choice for those who value sophistication, performance and sustainability — all without compromise.
Welcome to the new era of premium travel and towing in South Africa.
EVs Designed for the Adventurer
Not all EVs are equal — but a select few have been engineered for life beyond the city streets:
BMW iX / iX3
Combining German precision with power, these SUVs offer impressive towing capacity (up to 2,500kg) while ensuring unmatched ride comfort.
Audi Q8 e-tron
Bold design meets practical performance, built to tow everything from camping trailers to boat carriers with grace. Factory towbar preparation packages ensure seamless integration with the vehicle’s electronics and sensors.
Mercedes EQC
A quiet, luxurious cruiser with the muscle for a horsebox or a weekend adventure trailer. Mercedes includes electronic towbar readiness to ensure no interference with cooling or rear safety systems.
Volvo XC40 Recharge
Scandinavian simplicity blended with city and country versatility — perfect for bike racks or light off-road camping trailers.
BYD Atto 3
One of South Africa’s most affordable and fast-selling EVs, this stylish SUV offers surprising space and practicality for light trailers and bike racks — perfect for weekend escapes or city-to-coast travel.
Hyundai IONIQ 5 / IONIQ 6
Futuristic design, spacious interiors and growing popularity among premium EV drivers. The IONIQ 5 offers towing capability for smaller adventure trailers or e-bike carriers.
Kia EV6
A sleek crossover with strong torque and range, the EV6 combines sporty handling with enough power to tow lightweight camping or adventure trailers without effort.
Omoda C5 EV
The new player in the market, Omoda’s electric offering is set to cater for young adventurers with bike rack and lifestyle accessory compatibility
These vehicles offer more than transport. They deliver an experience — where performance meets elegance, and every drive feels like a statement.
For the Rider, Camper, Cyclist or Equestrian: Towing Possibilities Redefined
Towing with an EV requires more than just torque — it demands precision fitting. EV-specific towbars are crafted not to interfere with critical systems such as rear radar, battery cooling and parking cameras. This is why manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi now offer factory towbar preparation packages — a feature soon to expand to brands like Kia, Hyundai, BYD and Omoda as their South African presence grows.
Horse Trailers
Models like the BMW iX, Audi Q8 e-tron, and Mercedes EQC provide controlled, silent towing — a huge advantage when transporting valuable horses with care over long distances such as to Clarens or the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands.
Bike Carriers for the Active Traveller
Top-quality carriers from Thule, Holdfast, Yakima, and BuzzRack are compatible with the latest EV-specific towbars. Whether you drive a Kia EV6, Hyundai IONIQ 5, or BYD Atto 3, these racks ensure safe transport of mountain bikes for adventures in Sabie or the Drakensberg — without triggering parking sensors or cameras.
Roof Racks and Roof Boxes for Extra Gear
Brands like Rhino-Rack, Whispbar, and Mont Blanc offer aerodynamic roof systems made for EV owners needing extra storage — from kayaks to rooftop tents — while preserving battery range. These fit perfectly on models such as the Omoda C5 EV or upcoming Jaecoo EVs, where sleek design matters.
Caravans & Adventure Trailers
For luxurious coastal trips or weekend camping, EVs like the Mercedes EQE SUV or Audi Q8 e-tron can tow compact caravans or off-road trailers — thanks to properly rated detachable or retractable towbars that maintain their premium styling and aerodynamic efficiency.
South Africa’s Finest Travel Routes: Made for EV Journeys
Some roads deserve more than ordinary cars. These journeys are perfect for the premium EV adventurer — with towbar and trailer in tow:
The Garden Route (Cape Town to Knysna)
A breathtaking blend of ocean, forest and mountain — with charging stations thoughtfully placed along the way. Perfect for a weekend escape with your caravan or mountain bikes.
Johannesburg to Clarens (Golden Gate Highlands)
Golden sandstone cliffs, winding passes, and wide valleys. Tow your horse trailer or compact camper for a luxurious rural retreat.
KwaZulu-Natal Midlands Meander
Green hills, art studios, boutique coffee stops — and some of the finest equestrian farms in South Africa. Ideal for horseboxes or bike carriers, with chargers along the Pietermaritzburg-Hilton corridor.
The West Coast Explorer (Cape Town to Paternoster)
A minimalist’s dream — flat plains, blue ocean, and quiet fishing towns. Tow a camping trailer and reconnect with simple beauty.
The Panorama Route (Mpumalanga)
Waterfalls, lush forest, and curving mountain roads — made for quiet electric power. Bike racks carry your adventure gear for trails in Sabie or Graskop
South Africa’s EV Industry: Growing for the Future
The local EV industry is expanding at pace:
Charging Infrastructure: Charging points along the N1, N3 and N4 continue to increase, with GridCars, Audi, and Jaguar Land Rover leading the rollout. Private game lodges and Cape Winelands hotels are installing destination chargers for the growing EV holiday market.
Manufacturer Expansion:
BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi offer factory towbar prep, designed for South African terrain and conditions.
Hyundai and Kia are expanding their IONIQ and EV6 offerings — both expected to introduce more tow-capable SUVs and crossovers.
BYD — already popular with the Atto 3 — plans further SUV models aimed at South Africa’s family and adventure markets.
Omoda and Jaecoo are launching their first EV ranges locally, targeting stylish, affordable options with the flexibility for bike racks, rooftop storage and lifestyle accessories.
Ford and Stellantis are considering local EV assembly — opening doors to bakkie-style EVs for true South African towing needs.
Accessory Innovation: EV-specific towbar systems — designed to protect battery cooling and sensor arrays — are becoming standard, with global suppliers creating detachable and retractable towbars that preserve EV efficiency and luxury appeal.
Rural Charging Growth:Private lodges, game reserves, and guest farms — especially in the Cape Winelands, Karoo, and Drakensberg — are installing destination chargers to attract EV travellers.
Key Considerations for EV Towing Excellence
Know Your Towing Capacity Each premium EV has its limits. Ensure your caravan, trailer or horsebox is within your vehicle’s rated towing range.
Choose EV-Specific Towbars Only Your EV’s battery cooling, rear radar and ESP systems can be compromised by the wrong towbar. Always select towbars specifically designed for EVs — detachable or retractable — and have them fitted by professionals who understand electric vehicles.
Plan for Charging Towing reduces range. Routes like the N1, N3 and N4 now offer ultra-fast charging — essential for long, uninterrupted travel.
Safety, Balance & Handling Luxury includes safety. Tow with care, distribute weight perfectly, and allow extra braking distance — especially when descending South Africa’s great passes.
Looking Ahead: The Future of EV Towing in South Africa
Luxury Electric Bakkies — Models like the Ford F-150 Lightning and Rivian R1T may reach South Africa, built for towing and outdoor living.
EV-Friendly Lodges & Campsites — More private lodges, coastal retreats, and remote hideaways are preparing EV facilities for the eco-conscious traveller.
Continued Charging Network Growth — Cross-country EV adventures — even into the Karoo or Wild Coast — will soon be a stress-free reality.
Final Word: Experience the Best of South Africa, the Electric Way
Silent mountain passes. Coastal curves. Gentle towing of horses, bikes, or trailers — without the rumble or smoke of old engines.
South Africa’s greatest roads are waiting for those who want more from their journeys — more comfort, more care, more quiet power.
At Towbar Experts, we fit your electric vehicle with precision towbars designed for caravans, horseboxes, bike racks and trailers. Whether you’re heading to the Karoo or the coast, we’ll ensure your EV is adventure-ready — with the safety, performance and luxury you deserve.
The History of Towbars and the Pioneers Who Shaped the Industry
Towbars have become an essential component for millions of vehicles around the world, enabling safe towing of trailers, caravans, and equipment. But how did this crucial automotive accessory come to be, and who were the manufacturers that shaped its development?
When you connect a caravan, trailer, or bike rack to your car, you’re tapping into a story rooted in creativity and craftsmanship. From humble beginnings in a 1930s German forge to the sleek, vehicle-specific systems of today, here’s the fascinating evolution of towbars through the eyes of six legendary manufacturers: Bosal, Brink, Oris, GDW, Westfalia, and Steinhof.
The Spark That Started It All: Franz Knöbel, 1932
Long before towbars became vehicle-specific accessories, they existed as crude hook or eye couplings. That changed when German engineer Franz Knöbel—from the Knöbel family’s Westfalia-Werke—designed a ball-head trailer hitch in 1932, officially patenting it two years later, on March 14, 1934 inspired (reportedly) by a chicken-bone socket beneath a farm table, Knöbel’s ball-and-socket design transformed towing overnight—universal, versatile, and rock-solid. That moment marks the birth of the modern towbar .
1. Westfalia – From Forge to Global Fame
1844: Johann B. Knöbel opens a forge in Rheda-Wiedenbrück en.
1922: Franz registers the company as Westfalia.
1932: Franz invents and patents the breakthrough ball hitch; Westfalia proudly claims the title “Original Towbar Inventor Since 1932”
1966: Launches Western Europe’s first detachable towbar.
1987: Introduces the fully automatic A40V coupling.
2002: Debuts factory-built electric retractable system.
2016–2023: Joins Horizon Global and the First Brands Group, continuing its legacy
With over 1 million towbars produced annually and more than 1,700 vehicle-specific fittings, Westfalia’s story is one of engineer-driven innovation.
Brink – Forged by Passion
1903: Reint Brink establishes a blacksmith’s shop in Assen, Netherlands .
1960s: Expands to trailer production, then towbars under “RBS”—later renamed Brink .
Introduces advanced retractable systems (MX/MXe) across Europe.
2006: Acquires French firm SFEA (Atlux), joining the Thule Group.
2014: Returns to private ownership, expanding operations including in South Africa .
From humble beginnings to global influence, Brink has shaped towing innovation for over a century.
Bosal – A Century of Dutch Design
1923: Karel Bos founds B + Al in Alkmaar (Bos + Alkmaar)
Evolves from exhaust systems to accessories like towbars and bike carriers.
1965: Launches aftermarket towbar production in South Africa .
1985: Debuts the world’s first detachable towbar
2025: Celebrates its 100-year milestone, earning a “Royal” royal designation in the Netherlands .
Bosal blends enduring Dutch design with global presence—especially in South Africa.
Oris (ACPS Automotive) – Engineering Elegance
1955: Otto Riehle launches ORIS in Stuttgart .
By the 1970s, introduces the first horizontally removable towbars .
1999–2000: Jörg Riehle takes over; ORIS debuts the world’s first swivelling towbar .
2009: Unveils the first fully electric swivelling towbar .
2023–2025: Integrated into ACPS Automotive, accumulating over 140 patents and earning €440 million in revenue .
Oris epitomizes tech-meets-style in modern towing solutions.
GDW – Belgian Precision Since 1952
1952: Germain Deconinck establishes GDW in Waregem (“Germain Deconinck Waregem”)
Specializes in sturdy, precisely engineered towbars for diverse European vehicles
Steinhof – Polish to the Core
1960: Stanisław Steinhof begins crafting towbars in his home in Tarnów
1981: Opens a larger production facility.
1993: Leadership transitions to Marek Steinhof.
2000: Earns ISO 9000 certification; debuts at Frankfurt Motor Show .
2014–2015: Scales up finishing and painting lines.
Today: One of Europe’s largest towbar manufacturers—1,400+ references, 1,000+ employees .
The Towbar Legacy: From Forge to Function
What started as a chicken-bone-inspired idea in the 1930s has grown into an industry defined by innovation—from detachable and electric models to vehicle-specific designs.
Every hitch you attach carries a story—of engineers like Franz Knöbel, of blacksmiths turned industrialists, and of global brands shaping how we tow forever.
When it comes to vehicle safety and towing reliability, not all towbars are created equal. A towbar is more than just a metal attachment—it’s a critical link between your vehicle and the load you’re pulling. That’s why using SABS-approved and SARF-endorsed towbars is essential for safety, performance, and peace of mind
Why SABS Approval Matters
The South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) ensures that towbars meet strict safety and quality requirements. When a towbar is SABS-approved, you can trust that it has undergone rigorous testing for durability, strength, and load-bearing capacity. This certification protects you from the risks associated with substandard towbars, such as structural failures, compromised towing stability, and even road accidents.
The Role of SARF Endorsement
The South African Roads Federation (SARF) plays a vital role in advocating for road safety and infrastructure excellence. A SARF-endorsed towbar means it meets industry best practices, ensuring that your vehicle remains roadworthy while towing. This endorsement provides added assurance that the towbar aligns with national safety standards.
Towbar Experts: Committed to Quality and Safety
At Towbar Experts, we take no chances when it comes to safety. We exclusively install SABS-approved towbars, ensuring that every product we fit meets the highest standards. Our trusted brands, Brink and Bosal, are internationally recognized for their superior engineering, reliability, and innovation. Whether you need a towbar for personal or commercial use, you can rely on us to provide the best.
The Risks of Using Non-Approved Towbars
Choosing a towbar that lacks SABS approval or SARF endorsement can lead to serious issues, including: ✔ Compromised safety – Uncertified towbars may fail under stress, putting you and others at risk. ✔ Legal and insurance complications – Many insurers require SABS-approved towbars for coverage. ✔ Vehicle damage – Poor-quality towbars can strain your vehicle’s chassis, suspension, and braking system.
Make the Right Choice Today
When it comes to towing, safety should never be a compromise. At Towbar Experts, we stand by the quality of every towbar we install, ensuring that you drive away with confidence. Trust the best—choose SABS-approved, SARF-endorsed towbars from trusted brands like Brink and Bosal.
Need a towbar you can rely on? Contact Towbar Experts today!
Jorge, a young, spirited trailblazer with a thirst for adventure, is cruising down a rugged, off-the-beaten-path trail. His car is packed with gear, his heart is full of excitement, and the horizon promises endless possibilities. Jorge is the kind of guy who lives for the thrill of exploration—mountain trails, desert dunes, and hidden forest roads are his playground. But there’s one thing Jorge didn’t pack for his journey: a towbar. And that’s where his story takes a turn.
On this particular trip, Jorge’s adventurous spirit led him to a remote area where the terrain was as unforgiving as it was beautiful. His car, sturdy as it was, eventually met its match—a deep, muddy ditch that refused to let go. Jorge was stuck. No cell service, no help in sight, and no way to tow his vehicle out. As the sun dipped below the horizon, Jorge realized his mistake: he should’ve installed a towbar.
The Towbar: A Small Addition with Big Benefits
A towbar might seem like a simple piece of equipment, but for adventurers like Jorge, it’s a game-changer. Here’s why:
1. Safety Net for Emergencies: Whether you’re stuck in mud, sand, or snow, a towbar ensures you can be towed to safety. Without one, you’re left stranded, just like Jorge.
2. Versatility on the Road: A towbar isn’t just for emergencies. It allows you to tow trailers, caravans, or even transport extra gear for your adventures.
3. Peace of Mind: Knowing you have a reliable way to get help in tough situations lets you focus on enjoying your journey.
Jorge’s Regret: “I Wish I Called Towbar Experts”
As Jorge sat in his stranded car, he couldn’t help but think about how different things could’ve been if he’d just called Towbar Experts. They’re the go-to professionals for mobile towbar fitments, making it easy and convenient to get your car adventure-ready. With their expertise, Jorge could’ve had a towbar installed in no time, ensuring he was prepared for whatever the road threw his way.
But Jorge didn’t call. And now, he was stuck—literally and figuratively.
Don’t Be Jorge: Call Towbar Experts Today
Jorge’s story is a cautionary tale for every adventurer out there. Don’t wait until you’re stranded in the middle of nowhere to realize the importance of a towbar. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time explorer, a towbar is an essential addition to your vehicle.
At Towbar Experts, we make it easy. Our mobile towbar fitment service comes to you, so you don’t have to put your adventures on hold. We’ll equip your car with a high-quality towbar, ensuring you’re ready for anything the road throws your way.
So, don’t be Jorge. Don’t let a lack of preparation turn your adventure into a nightmare. Call Towbar Experts today and get the peace of mind you deserve. Because when it comes to exploring the great outdoors, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Ready to equip your car for adventure? Contact Towbar Experts now and schedule your mobile towbar fitment. Don’t wait until it’s too late—be prepared for every journey!
