Isuzu Motors South Africa (IMSAf) has donated two Electric (EV) trucks to the Nelson Mandela University (NMU), as part of its long-term relationship with the institution.
The aim is to foster collaboration between the industry and academia to upskill students on the ever-evolving technologies and trends in the automotive sector.
“Our collaboration with the Nelson Mandela University has helped align the university’s curriculum with current industry trends. This is particularly important as our focus is to help improve the quality of education and equip young people with the requisite skills for the future world of work,” says Celestin Ndhlovu, Executive Vice President for Corporate Services at Isuzu Motors South Africa.
The two EV trucks are powered by rechargeable batteries that supply energy to electric motors enabling them to travel without emitting exhaust fumes. This is important for reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
The Nelson Mandela University has welcomed the donation of the EV trucks saying it will enhance the university’s learning and teaching environment and help the institution to include the latest technologies in its curriculum. “Students from different faculties will gain valuable exposure through these electric vehicles. They will now be familiar with the Battery Management Systems, High Voltage Battery packs and High Torque motors,” says Andrew Young, Engineering Director at the Nelson Mandela University.
“Our engineering relationship with IMSAf started with simple component testing and went on to performance testing of some of the ISUZU ICE engines on our test equipment. This resulted in students being familiar with products produced at IMSAf and being able to contribute to manufacturing the vehicles as soon as they have completed their studies,” Andrew adds.
The two ISUZU EV trucks (NPR 400 and FTR 850) were converted at the company’s Vehicle Conversion and Distribution Centre (VCDC) in Gqeberha in 2019 by an Australian-based company that specialises in EV technology. Tests that include battery range, charging cable compatibility and speed, as well as gradability tests were conducted to determine how effective the units can launch on an incline.
Leapmotor at Stellantis South Africa announced a partnership agreement with boutique car rental company, Drive Electric, to make premium electric mobility more accessible to local driving consumers.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are still expected to dominate the European Union’s (EU) car market from 2035, yet their eventual share could vary considerably depending on the strength of upcoming emissions rules, according to new findings from the transport campaign group Transport & Environment (T&E).
The National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) in the United States (US) has renewed its backing for policies aimed at preventing Chinese vehicle manufacturers from establishing a foothold in the US, despite growing expectations that their entry may be inevitable.
Advertisement
Advertisement
I have bad reflexes. I was once run over by a car being pushed by two guys
Woody Allen
The National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) in the United States (US) has renewed its backing for policies aimed at preventing Chinese vehicle manufacturers from establishing a foothold in the US, despite growing expectations that their entry may be inevitable.
Japanese carmakers are scaling back operations in Southeast Asia and Africa as competition from rapidly expanding Chinese manufacturers reshapes the global automotive landscape.
Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) Minister Parks Tau has welcomed the approval of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Extension Bill by the United States (US) House of Representatives.
