Funky wheels: China’s big drive in South Africa
No, the Chinese are not coming to take over – they are already busy accomplishing it.
- Industry News
- 4 May 2026
During May, MasterDrive will host a New Energy Vehicle (NEV) Fleet Workshop where the topic will be delved into with great detail. While the exact date is yet to be confirmed, several experts will be coming together to unpack pertinent issues related to NEVs.
The growth of NEVs for both private and personal use is growing at a rapid pace, both internationally and locally. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says: “Naamsa reported an 88% year-on-year growth of NEVs for the third quarter of 2024. Social and political encouragement to transition fleets to NEVs means that organisations should be investigating their transition at the very least.
“The upcoming Workshop will bring together fleet managers, technology specialists, sustainability experts and financial analysts to explore the complete ecosystem of fleet electrification. These speakers and panellists will address critical topics from battery technology advancements to government incentives, while offering hands-on experience with the latest NEV technologies.”
Topics to be discussed:
The NEV Fleet Workshop will be an invaluable source of information for any organisation that recognises the role that fleet electrification will play in the future. “Whether you are just beginning on your NEV journey or taking the next step in building your new energy fleet, the workshop will undoubtedly be an essential aid in this,” Eugene says.
Zero Carbon Charge (CHARGE) welcomes the government’s extension of short term fuel levy relief measures aimed at cushioning consumers from rising fuel prices, but cautions that these interventions do not address the underlying structural challenge facing South Africa’s transport economy.
Volvo Cars has started building the fully electric EX60 at its Torslanda factory outside Gothenburg, with first customer deliveries due in early summer.
At Auto China 2026, Nissan unveiled two new NEV SUV concept cars, in its accelerated product rollout. It also highlights China’s role as one of the company’s lead markets and a global innovation and export hub, according to Nissan.