South Africa Automotive Steering Market Overview, 2029

Amidst the vibrant tapestry of South Africa's automotive landscape, steering systems play a pivotal role in shaping the nation's roadways, guiding the safe passage of countless vehicles through bustling city streets and rugged wilderness terrains. The adaptability of these systems to cater to diverse driving conditions and vehicle types is crucial for ensuring optimal performance, safety, and comfort. In response to this growing need, South African manufacturers are continuously innovating and refining their steering system designs, creating solutions that can seamlessly adapt to the unique demands of the local market. Recognizing the importance of a robust and modern automotive industry, the South African government has implemented various schemes and initiatives to support the growth and development of this burgeoning sector. These programs aim to foster innovation, promote local manufacturing, and encourage the adoption of advanced technologies, including steering systems. By providing financial incentives, establishing research partnerships, and creating favorable regulatory frameworks, these government schemes nurture an environment conducive to the flourishing of the steering systems market. One notable example of government support is the Automotive Production and Development Program (APDP) is a key government initiative in South Africa, aiming to boost local automotive production, attract investments, and raise global competitiveness. This program offers incentives to both vehicle manufacturers and component suppliers, including steering system producers. By providing a conducive environment for growth, the APDP encourages innovation, job creation, and skills development in the industry. As a result, steering system manufacturers can expand their production capabilities, invest in R&D, and improve their product offerings to cater to the local and international marketsThis program extends to steering system manufacturers, enabling them to invest in cutting-edge research and development, expand their production capabilities, and create high-quality jobs for the local workforce. The South African government's focus on road safety and environmental sustainability has led to the implementation of stringent vehicle standards and regulations. These measures, in turn, drive the demand for advanced steering systems that can meet or exceed these requirements, further bolstering the market.


According to the research report “South Africa Automotive Steering Market Overview, 2029," published by Bonafide Research, the South Africa Automotive Steering market is expected to reach a market size of more than USD 200 Million by 2029. This expansion can be attributed to several key trends and factors that are driving the demand for advanced steering systems in the region. One of the primary growth drivers is the increasing vehicle production and sales, which are propelling the demand for steering systems in both passenger and commercial vehicles. Additionally, the growing emphasis on vehicle safety, fuel efficiency, and driving comfort is further stimulating the market growth.

A notable trend in the South African automotive steering market is the rising adoption of electric power steering (EPS) systems over conventional hydraulic power steering (HPS) systems. EPS offers several advantages, such as reduced fuel consumption, lower emissions, and improved ease of use, making it a popular choice among automakers and consumers alike, EPS systems can be easily integrated with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), which are gaining traction in the South African market due to increasing safety concerns and regulatory requirements. The trend shaping the South African automotive steering market is the growing demand for steer-by-wire systems. These systems eliminate the mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the wheels, enabling smoother and more precise steering, while also offering potential weight reduction and improved fuel efficiency. The steer-by-wire systems can be seamlessly integrated with autonomous driving technologies, making them an essential component in the development of self-driving vehicles. The South African automotive steering market is also witnessing a surge in the adoption of advanced steering technologies, such as lane departure warning systems, park assist, and semi-autonomous driving features. The technologies are being driven by the global trend towards vehicle automation and the increasing demand for safer and more efficient transportation solutions.


The realm of power steering is dominated by two principal technologies: hydraulic power steering and electric power steering. Hydraulic power steering, a time-tested solution, harnesses the principles of fluid dynamics to provide exceptional steering assist. Envision a robust bakkie, its hydraulic system effortlessly guiding it across rugged off-road trails, ensuring precise control and unwavering stability as it conquers every obstacle in its path. Electric power steering, on the other hand, represents a more modern and eco-friendly approach, aligning with South Africa's commitment to sustainability. Akin to a silent guardian, it employs an electric motor to augment the driver's inputs, conserving energy and reducing environmental impact. Picture a sleek and stylish sedan gliding through the vibrant streets of Cape Town, its electric power steering system seamlessly translating the driver's every input into graceful and effortless performance. Beyond these industry stalwarts, South Africa's automotive engineers are pushing the boundaries of innovation, introducing cutting-edge steering technologies that cater to the unique demands of the local market. Variable gear ratio steering, for instance, adapts the steering ratio based on vehicle speed, offering precise control during low-speed maneuvers and enhanced stability at higher speeds – a true chameleon of the steering world, perfectly suited for the diverse driving conditions that South Africa has to offer. Rack and pinion steering, a stalwart of modern vehicles, harnesses the precision of gears to convert the rotational motion of the steering wheel into linear motion, guiding the wheels with unerring accuracy. For those seeking the ultimate in smooth and effortless steering, the recirculating ball steering system offers a solution akin to gliding across the veldt. Its ingenious design employs a series of recirculating balls to reduce friction and effort.

In South Africa, passenger vehicles reign supreme, encompassing the ubiquitous sedans and hatchbacks, the versatile SUVs, and the spacious vans. These vehicles demand steering systems that strike a fine balance between responsiveness, comfort, and safety. Rack and pinion steering systems have emerged as a popular choice among South African automakers, offering precise and direct steering feel, enhancing the overall driving experience. The electric power steering system has also gained significant traction in the passenger vehicle segment. This technology provides effortless maneuverability, making it easier to navigate the congested city streets of Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban. Additionally, electric power steering systems contribute to improved fuel efficiency, aligning with South Africa's drive towards sustainability. For the discerning luxury car enthusiast, variable gear ratio steering has become a coveted feature. This technology adapts the steering ratio based on vehicle speed, delivering a more composed and controlled driving experience on South Africa's vast stretches of open roads. Brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi have embraced this innovation, further solidifying their presence in the high-end passenger vehicle market. The commercial vehicle segment, comprising trucks and buses, plays a vital role in South Africa's transportation and logistics sectors. These workhorses require steering systems capable of handling immense loads and demanding driving conditions, often traversing rough terrain and challenging environments. Hydraulic power steering systems are widely adopted, providing the necessary steering assist to maneuver these behemoths with ease, whether navigating rural roads or urban construction sites. For those seeking adventure and excitement beyond the confines of paved roads, the off-road vehicle segment offers a thrilling experience in South Africa's diverse landscapes. All-terrain vehicles (ATVs), utility terrain vehicles (UTVs), and dirt bikes demand steering systems that can withstand rugged terrain, high impacts, and extreme conditions.



South Africa's steering component market is experiencing a surge in the steering sensor segment, propelled by the continuous advancement of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving technologies. The growing need for precise and reliable steering sensors is vital to ensure safe and effective steering functionality. These sensors, such as torque sensors, angle sensors, and speed sensors, provide critical data to vehicle control systems. South African companies are proactively investing in research and development to create innovative steering sensor technologies that cater to the evolving needs of the automotive industry, paving the way for enhanced safety and connectivity in vehicles. The steering gear takes the lead in the South African market, acting as the heart of the steering system by converting the steering wheel's rotary motion into linear motion, allowing the wheels to change direction. South African manufacturers are well-regarded for their high-quality steering gears, including rack and pinion and recirculating ball systems, recognized for their accuracy, durability, and smooth operation. The steering column serves as a crucial link between the steering wheel and the steering gear, ensuring safe and comfortable driving positions for drivers in South Africa. The steering wheel, acting as the primary interface between the driver and the vehicle, has seen significant improvements with South African designers focusing on ergonomics, materials, and integrated controls to enhance comfort and usability. The steering pump plays an essential role in hydraulic power steering systems, producing the necessary pressure for smooth steering operations. In addition, electric power steering systems utilize an electric motor to assist steering, reducing dependency on hydraulic pumps and contributing to improved fuel efficiency. ?

Considered in this report
• Historic year: 2018
• Base year: 2023
• Estimated year: 2024
• Forecast year: 2029

Aspects covered in this report
• Automotive Steering market Outlook with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Type of Steering System
• Manual Steering
• Power Steering (Hydraulic Power Steering, Electric Power Steering)
• Others(Variable Gear Ratio Steering,Rack and Pinion Steering, Recirculating Ball Steering)

By Vehicle Type
• Passenger Vehicles (Cars, SUVs, Vans)
• Commercial Vehicles (Trucks, Buses)
• Off-road Vehicles (ATVs, UTVs, Dirt Bikes)

By Component
• Steering Column
• Steering Wheel
• Steering Gear
• Steering Pump
• Steering Sensor
• Others

By End Use
• OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers)
• Aftermarket

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this; we have started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us, we can start verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations, and organizations related to the automotive steering industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.