Back in the 50 & 60's SA used to do a lot on it's own especially during the apartheid regime. We had to rely on ourselves due to the embargo's handed down to us.
At least India has a car manufacturer, sure it's not a status symbol but it does the job. Here we just aren't patriotic enough to wholeheartedly support local businesses.It's being addressed but it will take time as many established companies have stamped their authority via strong & aggressive marketing approaches.