Ford has reportedly brought back more than 350 experienced engineers after AI-assisted quality control systems struggled to consistently detect manufacturing defects and production inconsistencies on assembly lines.


While artificial intelligence remains valuable for automating repetitive inspections and analyzing massive amounts of production data, Ford concluded that experienced human engineers still outperform AI in identifying subtle fit, finish, and reliability issues that directly affect vehicle quality. The move highlights the continuing importance of combining AI with human expertise rather than replacing skilled workers entirely.


Source: Industry Reports, 2026


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Varun Beverages Ltd. has completed the $125 million acquisition of South Africa’s Twizza, following all necessary regulatory approvals.

The deal gives Varun control of Twizza’s manufacturing facilities and distribution network across Southern Africa, integrating it into its African portfolio.

Varun, PepsiCo’s largest bottling partner outside the US, is focusing on African markets for growth as its Indian sales face weather-related challenges.

Twizza will now operate under BevCo, Varun’s South African subsidiary, and founder Ken Clark and his family no longer own the company.

The History of Cars in South Africa

The story of automobiles in South Africa began in 1896 with the import of the first car, a Benz Velo, which was demonstrated in Pretoria in 1897 to President Paul Kruger.

Early Years and Establishment:

1896–1897: The first car, a Benz Velo, is imported and showcased in Pretoria.
1923: Ford opens the first assembly plant in Port Elizabeth, followed by General Motors in 1926.
1951: Volkswagen begins producing the Beetle at its Uitenhage facility.
1957: South Africa introduces its first locally designed and manufactured cars, the Protea and GSM Dart.

Expansion and Local Manufacturing:

Mid-1960s: International brands, including Toyota and Mercedes-Benz, establish factories in South Africa.
1968: BMW opens a plant in Rosslyn.
1973: Mercedes-Benz inaugurates an engine plant in East London—the first outside Germany.
1985: Ford merges with Sigma Motors (producing Mazda) to form Samcor.
1988: Ford temporarily withdraws from the country due to political and economic factors, but Samcor continues producing Ford and Mazda models.

Modern Era and Government Support:

1994: Ford returns by acquiring a stake in Samcor.
1995: The Motor Industry Development Programme (MIDP) is launched to stimulate local manufacturing and exports.
2000: Ford becomes the majority shareholder of Samcor, renaming it Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa.

Present: South Africa’s automotive sector remains a key economic contributor, with models like the Ford Ranger and Everest produced for both local and international markets.