- The Video: Posted by Matthew Ravell (a property practitioner from Umhlanga Rocks), it shows the steering wheel turning autonomously as the car cruises along a Durban road. Caption: “My Geely is driving me around Durban, this is crazy.” It quickly gained traction with likes and comments.
- The Car: Geely’s E5 and E2 models in South Africa come with Level 2+ Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). This includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, etc. These features can keep the car centered in the lane and maintain distance, but they are not full self-driving — the driver must remain attentive.
- Legal Context in SA: South African law currently only recognizes automation up to Level 1. Regulations for higher levels (like Level 2+) are still in development, with a target around 2027. This creates a gap where the technology is available in showrooms, but the legal framework hasn’t caught up.
Geely has been expanding in South Africa with affordable electric and hybrid models (E2 starting around R340k, E5 higher), emphasizing smart features. Globally, the company is pushing toward higher autonomy (e.g., robotaxis).
It’s a reminder of how fast vehicle tech is evolving compared to regulation — similar to situations in other markets. The driver was relying on the system’s lane-keeping and cruise features, but safety experts still stress keeping hands near the wheel and eyes on the road for Level 2 systems.
