In May 2026, Pace celebrates 20 years in car rental business, marking two decades of growth, resilience and commitment to driving South Africans forward.
Founded by Grenville Salmon in May 2006, Pace Car Rental began as a small operation with a clear objective: to make vehicle rental simpler, more accessible and less restrictive for everyday South Africans.
What started as a modest business has grown into a national car rental brand with thousands of vehicles and branches in major areas of South Africa.
From humble beginnings to national development
Pace's growth has been steady, strategic and opportunity-based.
By March 2015 the business had reached 400 vehicles. This number increased to 1,000 in November 2016. By May 2019, Pace had expanded to a fleet of 2,000 vehicles, marking a major turning point in its national growth journey.
The same year, the acquisition of Comet Car Rental helped Pace expand into Cape Town and Gkebarha, taking the brand beyond Gauteng and into new markets.
Pace footprint expansion
Momentum continued to grow through a combination of acquisitions, branch openings and brand development.
In 2021, the company acquired Pender Car Rental, strengthening its presence in Pretoria. Around the same time, Pace moved away from its previous “Price Invader” creative direction and introduced the more sophisticated Pace brand identity known to customers today.
In 2022, the acquisition of Arnacar expanded the business into Kempton Park, followed by the opening of an Umhlanga branch in 2023.
Between 2024 and 2025, Pace further expands its national footprint by opening branches in Salt River, George, East London, Nelspruit, Paroo, Roodepoort and Newton Park.
Recently, in 2026, Pace acquired Top Notch Car Rental, continuing its strategy of strengthening its national offering.
A business built for South Africans
At its core, Pace Car Rental has always focused on one simple idea: making mobility easy.
This has shaped the company's offering to both individuals and businesses. From short-term rentals to long-term car rental solutions, Pace has created practical options for real South African needs.
Whether customers need a small car for daily commutes, a bakkie for business, an SUV for family trips, or a minibus for group transport, Pace has grown its fleet to suit exactly what South Africans need.
looking ahead
For Grenville Salmon and the Pace team, the 20-year milestone isn't just a celebration of the past. It is also a commitment to the future.
As Pace Car Rental enters its next chapter, the focus remains clear: expanding access to mobility, simplifying the rental experience, and continuing to grow a proudly South African brand based on its customers, its people and its journey.
After 20 years, one thing remains the same: Pace Car Rental is committed to keeping South Africans moving.
Celebrating 20 years with R20 Car Rental
To celebrate its 20th birthday, Pace Car Rental is offering South Africans the chance to rent a car for just R20 per day.
This limited birthday special will be released through Pace Car Rental's social media channels, so customers are encouraged to follow along and keep an eye out for updates.
It's a simple way to celebrate 20 years of keeping South Africans moving.