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.
Within the vehicle retail sector, there are meaningful career opportunities for young people who are interested in sales, customer engagement, administration and dealership operations.
Housed in the upmarket, safe and centrally located Ballito Business Park in Moffat Drive, the location is in the heart of the Ballito retail trading business precinct amongst many already established OEM brands.
SVI Engineering, specialist manufacturer of armoured products in South Africa, has released a series of Transformer-inspired videos via its social media channels, highlighting how the company leverages its extensive expertise in the military and security fields to deliver civilian protection.
Advertisement
Advertisement
You can't buy happiness but you can buy cars and that's kind of the same thing.
Unknown
SVI Engineering, specialist manufacturer of armoured products in South Africa, has released a series of Transformer-inspired videos via its social media channels, highlighting how the company leverages its extensive expertise in the military and security fields to deliver civilian protection.
The new car buying trend has continued unabated into the new year, with January figures reflecting a 7.5% increase in total vehicle sales and passenger car volumes rising by 7.1%.
The positive momentum of new vehicle sales in 2025 seems set to continue in 2026, with January building on the previous year’s success, says the Automotive Business Council (naamsa).
