South Africans looking to lessen their impact on the environment can look forward to a handful of new electric vehicle (EV) models set to launch locally in 2024.
With the electric vehicle revolution gaining momentum worldwide, the South African automotive sector is gearing up for a substantial shift.
EV industry shake-up
Until now, options have been fairly scarce, with just a few models available on South African roads from major brands. The main issue is pricing, thanks to high taxes. The cheapest new EV you can currently buy in South Africa is the GWM Ora 03 at R686,950. That could change.
Industry players are eagerly awaiting government announcements on incentives and subsidies during the 2024 Budget Speech in February 2024. Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana has already pledged support for the industry’s transition to new energy vehicles, but the specifics remain undisclosed.
The National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa) has advocated for subsidies of up to R80,000 per EV to spur local adoption. The success of EVs in South Africa might hinge on these potential price cuts, as automakers aim to convince customers to make the switch.
Interestingly, EV uptake in South Africa appears to be led by less common brands, with manufacturers like Jac, BYD, Lotus, and Maserati leading the pack.
Jac T9 Electric Bakkie
Jac is set to introduce the T9 battery electric vehicle (BEV), marking South Africa’s second true electric bakkie. Unveiled at the Shanghai Automotive Show, the T9 BEV boasts a 4×4 drivetrain and an 88kWh battery, offering over 400km of range. This robust electric bakkie will grab the attention of South Africans, combining practicality with some sustainability.
BYD Dolphin
Regarded as “China’s Tesla”, BYD will bring its Dolphin electric vehicle to South Africa in 2024. With a reputation as the world’s best-selling electric hatchback, the Dolphin has a shot at becoming South Africa’s most affordable EV. Overseas pricing has it starting at around R725,000 but if that tax credit thing is sorted out, it’ll squeeze in below the Ora 03 (which is probably also due a price drop, in the case of a tax credit).
Lotus Eletre
Lotus is entering the South African electric vehicle market with the Eletre, a high-performance, fully-electric SUV. With impressive specifications, including 450kW/710Nm engine power/torque, 4.5 second 0-100km/h acceleration, and 600km range, the Eletre caters to affluent performance car enthusiasts — of which there are many in South Africa.
Maserati Grecale Folgore
In true Maserati fashion, it’s set to make a statement with the Grecale Folgore, a high-performance, fully-electric SUV heading to South Africa in 2024. It’ll feature a powerful 373kW+/800Nm+ engine, a 0-100km/h time of 4.1 seconds, and a 500km range. Of course, you’ll also have the fanciest car at the charging station.
Mini Countryman SE
Mini is expanding its EV lineup with the electrified Countryman SUV in 2024. With a beefy 230kW/494Nm engine, a 0-100km/h time of 5.6 seconds, and 433km of range, the Mini Countryman SE adds a dash of electrification to the iconic Mini design, appealing to enthusiasts looking for more space than the Mini Cooper SE. The greener drive may only be a bonus at this point.
Volvo EX30 and EX90
Swedish automaker Volvo is making a significant contribution to the EV scene in 2024, introducing its EX30 and EX90 models. The EX30, touted as Volvo’s most affordable EV, promises rapid acceleration with a 0-100km/h time of 3.6 seconds. The EX90, with a 205kW/490Nm engine, offers a generous 580km range, showcasing Volvo’s commitment to varied EV options.
While this list is accurate as of right now, don’t expect it to be exhaustive. There are bound to be other EVs from other marques making landfall on the South African coastline at some point in 2024. We’ll cover those as they turn up.
