South Africa’s off-grid, solar-powered electric vehicle (EV) charging network is expected to expand to nearly 100 sites within the next two years as investment in new-energy vehicle (NEV) infrastructure increases, says Nelson Mandela University-based uYilo National Electric Mobility Programme director Dr Andrew de Vries.

The country already has one of Africa’s largest public charging networks, mainly driven by private-sector investment, with over 600 public charging points concentrated mainly in major cities.

Further growth will depend on investment along high-traffic routes, expanded fast-charging capacity, grid modernisation, home and workplace charging, as well as rural rollout. De Vries also highlights the need for smart charging standards, vehicle-to-grid integration and the localisation of components.

NEVs comprised less than 3% of new-vehicle sales in 2025, but he says adoption is rising, owing to wider model availability, growing Chinese market participation, policy support and more consumer awareness. Declining battery costs, renewable-energy integration and tax incentives are also supporting growth.

NEV sales have increased 30-fold since 2020, but still represent less than 1% of total vehicle sales, with only about 5 000 vehicles on the road. Hybrids remain dominant because of the country’s limited charging infrastructure and electricity supply constraints.

“South Africa leads most African markets in EV readiness, charging coverage and vehicle variety, although countries such as Morocco and Egypt are advancing through industrial policy and local manufacturing. Kenya, Rwanda and Ethiopia are leading in electric two- and three-wheelers and public transport electrification,” he adds.

Despite progress, barriers remain, including high vehicle costs, unreliable electricity supply, limited rural charging, skills shortages and import dependence. De Vries says broader policy alignment, consumer education and infrastructure investment are still required.

He adds that electrification will reshape automotive production, shifting it towards higher-value manufacturing in batteries, electronics, energy storage systems, charging infrastructure and digital services.

“South Africa can strengthen its position by leveraging its mining base, automotive assembly sector, engineering skills and research capability. Developing the battery value chain and increasing local component manufacturing are key opportunities, alongside workforce development.”

De Vries further adds that new opportunities also exist in supplier development for electronics and second-life battery applications. “Existing suppliers can transition through reskilling and technology upgrades, while small businesses can be integrated into regional value chains.”

He notes that government’s Electric Vehicle White Paper provides a policy framework that has attracted investment from global manufacturers while encouraging localisation and research. Implementation could be accelerated through consumer incentives, supplier support and reduced import duties.

De Vries states that electrification opportunities also extend beyond passenger vehicles to buses, logistics fleets, mining equipment and airport vehicles, where high utilisation and depot charging improve viability.

“Emerging technologies, such as smart charging, connected mobility, telematics, AI and vehicle-to-grid systems, are expected to mould the sector, improving efficiency, fleet management and grid integration,” he concludes.