Volkswagen Group Africa has added an additional 3 megawatt (MW) solar power to its grid, bringing the total output of renewable energy to 5.9MW. This is enough energy to power at least 2 000 two-bedroom houses fitted with geysers and electrical appliances.
The total number of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels across the company now stands at 12 097 of which 5 710 panels were recently installed in the employee car park. The first phase started two years ago with 3 030 panels on the Engine Plant roof and 3 136 panels on the Final Assembly building roof. More PV panels will be installed during the next phase.
Volkswagen Group Africa has invested close to R100 million in solar energy to date. The renewable energy share at the company has increased from 1.5% in 2018 to 17.1% in 2023, which reduces the reliance on electricity supplied by the municipality. The combined solar energy capacity can save approximately 7 500 tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions per year.
Ulrich Schwabe, Volkswagen Group Africa’s Production Director, says that the reduction in dependence on fossil fuels, which is projected to reach 23% by 2025, highlights Plant Kariega’s goal to be a Zero Impact Factory by 2030.
“Our efforts to reduce carbon emissions are in line with Volkswagen Group’s global Go To Zero Environmental Strategy, aimed at achieving carbon-neutrality, which is aligned with the Paris Agreement. As a result, all Volkswagen Group plants are highly focused on decarbonisation, with renewable energy playing a key role in this effort,” Ulrich says.
He added that between 2010 and 2023, the electricity usage per vehicle manufactured has decreased by 54%. These reductions were achieved through various initiatives such as an effective Demand Side Management plan. “We are constantly monitoring processes and influencing mindsets towards energy consumption, such as air conditioner usage,” he adds.
Energy usage reduction is one of several environmental indicators that paves Volkswagen’s way to zero impact. Since 2010, Plant Kariega’s environmental impact has improved by 57.7%, which includes reduction in energy consumption, water, waste, solvent and carbon emissions.
Following the introduction of the C5 Luxury X and Elegance X trims earlier this year, OMODA & JAECOO South Africa are now enhancing the Style and Street derivatives with a series of upgrades.
Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) is introducing Hilux Custom Builds, a fully integrated conversion programme that adds professionally engineered, purpose-built solutions directly to the Toyota product offering.
BYD, China’s leading electric vehicle manufacturer, is preparing for a major international push, aiming to sell as many as 1.6 million cars outside its home market next year.
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A light on my car’s dashboard came on, and instead of fixing the problem, I waited for the bulb to burn out. Crisis solved.
Jarod Kintz
BYD, China’s leading electric vehicle manufacturer, is preparing for a major international push, aiming to sell as many as 1.6 million cars outside its home market next year.
Global demand for electric vehicles surged in October, with combined sales of battery-electric and plug-in hybrid models rising by 23% to 1.9 million units, according to data from Rho Motion.
South Africa is entering a transformative phase in its automotive sector as experts and industry leaders meet Wednesday, 12 November, to begin shaping the country’s first nationally recognised qualification for electric vehicle (EV) servicing and maintenance.
