South Africa Automotive Tire Market Overview
As per MRFR analysis, the South Africa Automotive Tire Market Size was estimated at 0.96 (USD Billion) in 2023.The South Africa Automotive Tire Market is expected to grow from 1.06(USD Billion) in 2024 to 4.55 (USD Billion) by 2035. The South Africa Automotive Tire Market CAGR (growth rate) is expected to be around 14.161% during the forecast period (2025 - 2035).
Key South Africa Automotive Tire Market Trends Highlighted
There are a number of significant trends in the South African automobile tire market that are indicative of the region's distinct features. The rise in car ownership brought on by the expanding middle class is one of the main market factors. The need for tires has increased as a result of the increase in disposable income, which has raised demand for both personal and commercial vehicles.
Additional significant elements are South Africa's growing infrastructure projects and better road conditions, which foster an atmosphere that is conducive to the automobile sector. The tire industry, which focuses on eco-friendly and sustainable products, offers a lot of options for investigation.
Government programs to promote green technologies and increased awareness of environmental issues are pushing tire makers to create tires with better fuel efficiency and less environmental impact. The potential for market expansion in this sector is further enhanced by South Africa's emphasis on renewable energy and sustainability-promoting regulations.
Online sales channels are becoming more and more popular for tire purchasing, according to recent statistics. E-commerce platforms are becoming more popular as consumers get more tech-savvy, which promotes ease and affordable prices.
Furthermore, the growing popularity of electric vehicles in South Africa is changing the specifications for tire performance and design, necessitating the development of specialty tires to satisfy the needs of this emerging market.
All things considered, the South African automobile tire industry is adjusting to shifting customer tastes and environmental factors, indicating a dynamic environment that is set for further development.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
South Africa Automotive Tire Market Drivers
Increasing Vehicle Ownership and Sales in South Africa
The rising levels of disposable income and urbanization in South Africa have led to an increase in vehicle ownership and sales. According to the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa, vehicle sales have shown consistent growth over the past five years, with new passenger vehicle registrations increasing by over 7% annually on average.
This surge in vehicle ownership directly fuels demand within the South Africa Automotive Tire Market, as each vehicle requires a set of tires. Moreover, with an increased focus on mobility solutions, this trend is likely to continue, resulting in sustained market growth.
The South African automotive industry also reports that the demand for light commercial vehicles has steadily risen, indicating a shift toward personal and commercial use that further propels tire sales, supporting the expectation of a vibrant market landscape.
Rise in E-commerce and Online Retail
The burgeoning e-commerce sector in South Africa has seen substantial growth, particularly accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Reports indicate that the e-commerce sector grew by approximately 66% in 2020 alone, as consumers shifted to online shopping.
This trend has led to an increase in logistic companies needing delivery vehicles, thus boosting the demand for tires in both the light and heavy goods vehicle segments within the South Africa Automotive Tire Market.
Additionally, as more businesses establish an online presence, the necessity for efficient transportation amplifies the demand for reliable tires, fostering significant market expansion in the foreseeable future.
Growing Focus on Eco-friendly Tires
The increasing environmental awareness among consumers in South Africa has led to a growing preference for eco-friendly tires. A recent survey indicated that about 70% of South African consumers consider ecological sustainability while making purchase decisions.
Major tire manufacturers like Continental and Michelin are responding to this trend by developing sustainable tire options that reduce carbon footprint and improve fuel efficiency. This transition towards environmentally friendly tire solutions is essential for the South Africa Automotive Tire Market, as it integrates the need for environmentally responsible products with consumer preferences.
The South African government's commitment to sustainable development further underpins this trend, affirming the growing importance of eco-friendly products in the market.
South Africa Automotive Tire Market Segment Insights
Automotive Tire Market Rim Size Insights
The Rim Size segment is a crucial component of the South Africa Automotive Tire Market, reflecting the diverse needs of vehicles and driving conditions within the region. With a clear segmentation into sizes ranging from 13 to more than 21 inches, each category addresses unique demands of passenger cars, SUVs, and commercial vehicles.
The 13-to-15-inch range serves primarily smaller vehicles and is significant in urban environments, where fuel efficiency and cost-effectiveness are key. The 16-to-18-inch range caters to a growing number of mid-sized and compact vehicles, aligning with consumer preferences for enhanced performance and style.
Notably, the 19-to-21-inch segment has garnered attention due to the rising popularity of sport utility vehicles and performance-oriented cars, offering both aesthetic appeal and superior handling capabilities.
Moreover, the >21-inch segment represents the premium tier, preferred by luxury vehicle manufacturers, and reflects a trend towards larger, high-performance wheels that provide better grip and stability.
With a growing emphasis on electric vehicles and advancements in tire technology, the South Africa Automotive Tire Market is likely to see shifts in these rim size preferences as consumers seek more sustainable and high-performance driving options.
The potential for growth is further fueled by the country’s developing automotive industry and increasing vehicle ownership rates. Understanding the dynamics of the Rim Size segment is crucial for stakeholders aiming to address customer needs and capture a larger market share in a rapidly evolving landscape.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
Automotive Tire Market Season Insights
The South Africa Automotive Tire Market has shown a significant focus on the Season segment, which is primarily divided into Winter, Summer, and All-Season tires. The diverse climatic conditions experienced across South Africa have driven the demand for specialized tires tailored to different seasons.
Winter tires are designed to provide enhanced traction in cold and wet conditions, making them ideal for regions that experience freezing temperatures. Conversely, Summer tires are optimized for warm weather, offering superior handling and shorter braking distances.
All-Season tires have gained popularity due to their versatility, catering to consumers who prefer a single solution for varying weather conditions. The growth of the South Africa Automotive Tire Market can be attributed to rising vehicle ownership, increased road infrastructure, and a growing awareness of safety among consumers, encouraging investment in quality tire products.
Additionally, the trend towards eco-friendly and energy-efficient tires presents a significant opportunity for manufacturers to innovate and capture market share within this segment. As consumers continue to seek out tailored solutions for their driving needs, each of these segments plays a crucial role in shaping the dynamics of the South Africa Automotive Tire Market.
Automotive Tire Market Propulsion Type Insights
The South Africa Automotive Tire Market, segmented by Propulsion Type, showcases diverse dynamics and growth potential driven by differing vehicle types. Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles have long dominated the automotive landscape in South Africa, playing a crucial role due to the large existing fleet and consumer preferences.
However, there is a rising trend towards electric vehicles (EV), fueled by increasing environmental awareness and government policies aimed at promoting sustainability. The EV segment presents significant opportunities as South Africa commits to reducing carbon emissions and enhancing energy efficiency.
This duality in propulsion type is critical to understanding the South Africa Automotive Tire Market revenue, as shifts in consumer behavior and regulatory frameworks impact tire demand. In recent years, the South African government has begun to support the EV ecosystem through incentives, which is expected to drive growth in this segment significantly.
Consequently, manufacturers are increasingly focused on innovative tire solutions tailored for both ICE and EV vehicles, which have distinct performance requirements. This market segmentation highlights the transitional phase in the automotive industry, with each propulsion type contributing to the overall evolution of the South Africa Automotive Tire Market.
The diversity in propulsion types not only reflects changing consumer preferences but also influences overall market growth and development strategies.
Automotive Tire Market Vehicle Type Insights
The South Africa Automotive Tire Market is witnessing notable growth, particularly within the Vehicle Type segment, which includes Passenger Cars, Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV), and Heavy Commercial Vehicles (HCV). Passenger Cars hold a significant share of the market, driven by increased urbanization and consumer preference for personal mobility.
Meanwhile, LCVs are increasingly vital for the logistics and transport sectors, reflecting the nation's thriving e-commerce landscape and the need for efficient goods delivery systems. HCVs also play a critical role, catering to the construction and mining industries, which are essential to South Africa's economic framework.
The growing demand for durable and high-performance tires in these segments signifies their importance and impact on overall market dynamics.
Additionally, as the automotive sector evolves towards more sustainable practices, there is a notable shift in tire technology, with manufacturers focusing on environmentally friendly materials and innovation in design, fostering opportunities for growth in the South Africa Automotive Tire Market revenue.
Overall, the segmentation within Vehicle Type highlights the diverse needs and trends that continue to shape the automotive tire landscape in South Africa.
Automotive Tire Market Distribution Channel Insights
The Distribution Channel segment within the South Africa Automotive Tire Market plays a vital role in shaping market dynamics and growth patterns. The market is categorically divided into Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) and Aftermarket channels, each representing distinct pathways for tire distribution.
The OEM segment typically caters to new vehicle production, ensuring that manufacturers meet quality standards and consumer expectations, thereby bolstering relationships with automotive manufacturers. Conversely, the Aftermarket channel serves existing vehicle owners seeking replacement tires, which presents opportunities for innovation and customization to satisfy diverse consumer preferences.
The increasing number of vehicles on South African roads contributes to a growing demand for replacement tires, making the Aftermarket a significant player in the market. Trends such as online retailing are reshaping distribution strategies, as consumers increasingly prefer the convenience of e-commerce platforms.
This shift emphasizes the need for tire distributors to adapt and enhance their service offerings. Furthermore, supply chain efficiencies in both channels are crucial to meet the rising consumer expectations for timely delivery and product availability, thus fostering competitive dynamics within the South Africa Automotive Tire Market.
South Africa Automotive Tire Market Key Players and Competitive Insights
The South Africa Automotive Tire Market is characterized by a diverse range of players, each vying for a significant share of a dynamic and evolving marketplace. This market is influenced by various factors, including consumer preferences for sustainability, technological advancements in tire manufacturing, and a growing demand for high-performance tires across both passenger and commercial vehicles.
The competitive landscape is shaped not only by established brands with deep roots in the region but also by emerging companies striving to innovate and capture the attention of environmentally conscious consumers. The market dynamics are also driven by fluctuating raw material prices, regulatory changes, and the impact of global supply chains, which contribute to a complex competitive environment.
Dunlop has established a strong presence in the South African automotive tire market by leveraging its well-recognized brand reputation and extensive distribution network. Known for its high-quality products, Dunlop has positioned itself as a reliable choice among consumers and automotive professionals alike.
The company specializes in various tire categories, including passenger, light truck, and performance tires, catering to diverse consumer needs.
Strengths of Dunlop in the South African market include robust partnerships with local dealers and service centers, enabling efficient product distribution and customer support. Additionally, Dunlop's commitment to innovation and quality assurance has solidified its position as a preferred brand for many drivers, encouraging loyalty and repeat purchases.
In the context of the South African automotive tire market, Pirelli is known for its focus on high-performance tires, particularly targeting the luxury and sports vehicle segments. The company offers a broad portfolio of products that includes summer, winter, and all-season tires, crafted to enhance driving performance and safety.
Pirelli's strength in this market lies in its technological advancements, including the development of eco-friendly tires that cater to a growing segment of environmentally conscious consumers. The brand’s presence is further strengthened through strategic partnerships and collaborations with automakers, positioning Pirelli as a go-to choice for premium vehicle manufacturers.
Over the years, Pirelli has also engaged in various mergers and acquisitions to enhance its market share and product offerings specific to South Africa, further embedding itself within the local tire industry while responding to consumer demands for higher quality and performance-oriented products.
Key Companies in the South Africa Automotive Tire Market Include
- Dunlop
- Pirelli
- CEAT
- Hankook
- Nokian Tyres
- Goodyear
- Sumitomo Tire
- Firestone
- Toyo Tires
- Continental
- Bridgestone
- Michelin
- BFGoodrich
- Apollo Tires
- Yokohama
South Africa Automotive Tire Market Developments
The South Africa Automotive Tire Market has recently witnessed significant developments, notably in the areas of product innovation and sustainability initiatives. Companies such as Dunlop and Goodyear are pushing for more environmentally friendly tire production methods, aligning with global trends toward reducing carbon footprints.
In July 2023, Bridgestone announced the launch of a new range of tires tailored for electric vehicles, tapping into the increasing demand for sustainable automotive solutions. Additionally, in August 2023, Continental unveiled its new technology aimed at enhancing tire durability, reflecting the competitive landscape in the region.
On the mergers and acquisitions front, reports in May 2023 indicated that Pirelli was in strategic discussions to acquire a smaller local tire manufacturer to enhance their supply chain capabilities in South Africa. The market has also seen a growth trajectory, with a valuation increase noted in reports from industry analysts, stimulated by rising vehicle sales and greater consumer awareness of tire quality and performance.
Moreover, the localization of production has become a focal point, with companies like Michelin and Sumitomo Tire looking to bolster their manufacturing presence in South Africa, thereby supporting local economies and job creation.
South Africa Automotive Tire Market Segmentation Insights
Automotive Tire Market Rim Size Outlook
- 13”-15"
- 16”-18"
- 19”-21"
- >21"
Automotive Tire Market Season Outlook
Automotive Tire Market Propulsion Type Outlook
Automotive Tire Market Vehicle Type Outlook
Automotive Tire Market Distribution Channel Outlook
Report Attribute/Metric Source: |
Details |
MARKET SIZE 2023 |
0.96(USD Billion) |
MARKET SIZE 2024 |
1.06(USD Billion) |
MARKET SIZE 2035 |
4.55(USD Billion) |
COMPOUND ANNUAL GROWTH RATE (CAGR) |
14.161% (2025 - 2035) |
REPORT COVERAGE |
Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends |
BASE YEAR |
2024 |
MARKET FORECAST PERIOD |
2025 - 2035 |
HISTORICAL DATA |
2019 - 2024 |
MARKET FORECAST UNITS |
USD Billion |
KEY COMPANIES PROFILED |
Dunlop, Pirelli, CEAT, Hankook, Nokian Tyres, Goodyear, Sumitomo Tire, Firestone, Toyo Tires, Continental, Bridgestone, Michelin, BFGoodrich, Apollo Tires, Yokohama |
SEGMENTS COVERED |
Rim Size, Season, Propulsion Type, Vehicle Type, Distribution Channel |
KEY MARKET OPPORTUNITIES |
Increasing electric vehicle adoption, Growing demand for sustainable tires, Expansion of e-commerce tire sales, Rising focus on safety and performance, Upgrading infrastructure and road quality |
KEY MARKET DYNAMICS |
rising vehicle ownership, increasing demand for all-season tires, growth in e-commerce logistics, focus on sustainable materials, expanding tire recycling initiatives |
COUNTRIES COVERED |
South Africa |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
The South Africa Automotive Tire Market is expected to be valued at 1.06 billion USD in 2024.
By 2035, the South Africa Automotive Tire Market is projected to reach a value of 4.55 billion USD.
The market is expected to experience a CAGR of 14.161% from 2025 to 2035.
The 13"-15" rim size segment holds the largest market value at 0.37 billion USD in 2024.
The 16"-18" rim size segment is expected to reach a market value of 1.7 billion USD by 2035.
Key players in the market include Dunlop, Pirelli, CEAT, Hankook, and Goodyear among others.
The >21" rim size segment is valued at 0.07 billion USD in 2024 and is expected to reach 0.32 billion USD by 2035.
The 19"-21" rim size segment is projected to grow from 0.22 billion USD in 2024 to 0.95 billion USD by 2035.
The growth drivers include increasing vehicle sales and rising demand for better tire performance.
The competitive landscape features both international and local manufacturers, with significant market shares held by established brands.