Tavcor Motor Group proudly celebrates 75 years of service, innovation, and community connection. A special milestone that celebrates the legacy of a third-generation, family-managed, professionally run business and one of South Africa’s most respected automotive groups.
Founded in 1950 as Embassy Motors in North End, the business began as a small dealership built on principles of integrity, personal service, and trust. As the company expanded, Embassy Motors evolved into Tavcor Motor Group, growing its footprint, embracing innovation, and nurturing the values that continue to define it today.
Tavcor is also proud to be Volkswagen Group Africa’s oldest Volkswagen dealership. This enduring partnership stands as a testament to decades of consistent performance, customer loyalty, and industry leadership.
Over the years, Tavcor has broadened its offering, representing a strong portfolio of leading automotive brands including Volkswagen, Volkswagen Commercial, Audi, Suzuki, Renault, BAIC, JAC, MG, and Jetour. The group has also been recognised for its forward-thinking approach, earning sustainability awards that celebrate its commitment to environmental responsibility and greener business practices.
Through every evolution, Tavcor’s focus has remained steadfast: delivering trusted mobility solutions while building genuine, long-standing relationships with customers, employees, and communities.
Alan Taverner, Chairperson of Tavcor Motor Group, reflected on the milestone:
“Seventy-five years is a profound achievement — one that pays tribute to the loyalty of our customers and the dedication of our people. From our beginnings as Embassy Motors to becoming Tavcor Motor Group, our purpose has remained unchanged: to serve with integrity, to innovate with intention, and to build genuine connections with our community. This anniversary belongs to every customer, every staff member, and every partner who has walked this journey with us. We look forward to the road ahead.”
Garrick Bowker, CEO of Tavcor Motor Group, shared insight into what makes Tavcor a favourite among both employees and customers:
“What sets Tavcor apart is our culture — a culture built on trust, transparency, and genuine care. Our people bring heart and expertise to everything they do, and our customers feel that. We create spaces where employees can grow, where customers feel heard, and where excellence is not a goal, but a daily practice. That’s why people choose Tavcor.”
As Tavcor looks ahead, the group remains committed to driving progress through sustainability, innovation, and continued investment in its people and communities. For 75 years, Tavcor has upheld the promise of Great Cars, Great People — and the next chapter promises to be its most ambitious yet.
Tavcor Motor Group will host two events this month end, Tavcor’s Great Car-nival on Saturday, 29 November from 9am – 1pm at these locations:
- Tavcor Volkswagen and Audi Centre Nelson Mandela Bay
- Tavcor VW George
- Tavcor Suzuki Mossel Bay
- Tavcor Suzuki Knysna & VW Knysna
Expect, test drives, food vendors, new and used car displays from all brands, vintage and classic car displays, kids entertainment, lucky draw prizes and more!
On Sunday, 30 November from 7am – 12pm at Tavcor Volkswagen in William Moffett, the Tavcor Trail Run takes place. A safe and fun trail to explore the Baakens Valley with a 5km, 12km or 17km. Online entries close on Thursday, 27 November at 13:00. Late entries will take place at Tavcor Volkswagen William Moffett on Saturday, 29 November from 9am – 1pm.
About Tavcor Motor Group
Tavcor Motor Group is a third-generation, family-managed, multi-franchise automotive group with operations in Gqeberha, George, Knysna, and Mossel Bay. Originating in 1950 as Embassy Motors, the group has grown into a trusted regional leader representing Volkswagen, Volkswagen Commercial, Audi, Suzuki, Renault, BAIC, JAC, MG, and Jetour. Tavcor is Volkswagen South Africa’s oldest Volkswagen dealership and has received multiple sustainability awards recognising its commitment to environmental leadership.
