FOUNDED in 2014, VM Automotive has grown to become South Africa’s premier black-owned automotive blanking company, with its sights set on becoming a major global player. Specialising in both aluminium and steel blanking, VM Automotive is a trailblazer in the automotive sector, and the only company in South Africa capable of processing aluminium in both 5000 and 6000 series.
Located in Rosslyn, Pretoria, and Berlin, near East London, in the Eastern Cape, VM Automotive’s plants are equipped with world-class technology, including the first Schuler high speed Laser Blanking Line in the southern hemisphere. This high-tech machinery gives the company the precision and efficiency required to supply top-tier automotive brands with high-quality blanks.
Expanding service excellence
Beyond its automotive blanking process, VM Automotive has also expanded its capabilities through its VM Commercial Vehicles division. This division specialises in the manufacturing and supply of truck bodies, as well as repairs, on-site call-outs, and the fitment of additional parts and equipment. VM Commercial Vehicles is dedicated to ensuring the continued performance and reliability of the truck bodies it produces, offering a comprehensive suite of aftersales services that underscores the company’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
The company says through VM Commercial Vehicles, it is able to provide clients with end-to-end solutions that don’t stop once the vehicle leaves its factory. The company stands behind the products it creates, and its customers can rely on it for ongoing support.
Global automotive brands
As a supplier of critical automotive blanks, VM Automotive has forged strong partnerships with some of the world’s leading car manufacturers. The company has supplied blanks for vehicles such as the BMW F30 3-Series, BMW G01 X-Class, BMW G45 X3 Series, Mercedes-Benz W205 C-Class, and the new Mercedes-Benz W206 C-Class. These high-profile clients speak to the company’s ability to consistently meet international quality standards, delivery, and competitive pricing.
Leading the change
At the heart of VM Automotive’s operations are its two key plants in Rosslyn and Berlin. The Rosslyn facility focuses on blanking services and press tooling maintenance for Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). Meanwhile, the Berlin plant is home to the cutting-edge Schuler Laser blanking line, a machine that positions VM Automotive at the forefront of global blanking technology.
Driving success
VM Automotive’s achievements are the result of visionary leadership. The company’s CEO and majority shareholder are backed by an experienced executive team, and together, they lead a workforce dedicated to maintaining the highest standards in technology, processes, and performance across all company operations. The company’s board of directors also includes strategic representatives from the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), reinforcing its significance in South Africa’s industrial landscape.
Future-focused growth and expansion
VM Automotive has big plans for the future. The company is currently upgrading the operational capacity of its Rosslyn plant, further enhancing its ability to meet growing demand from both local and international clients. In addition, the company is refreshing its digital presence, ensuring its website and media content reflect the latest innovations and operational achievements.
Economic transformation
As the only 100% black-owned automotive blanking and commercial vehicle company in South Africa, VM Automotive is a symbol of the country’s industrial and economic transformation. By combining world-class technology with a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, VM Automotive is poised to continue its rapid growth and play a pivotal role in the global automotive supply chain.
AIDC-EC congratulations
The Automotive Industry Development Centre Eastern Cape (AIDC-EC) visited the company’s facility in Berlin to congratulate it on ten years of success and to wish it more decades of global competitiveness and component supply capabilities.
The AIDC says VM Automotive established the additional state-of-the-art plant in Berlin 2020.
The AIDC-EC, represented by the CEO, Thabo Shenxane paid a special visit to the company and was well received by the CEO, Gibson Njenje and team, the development centre said.
