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.
VSL Manufacturing officially unveiled its new R750 million, purpose-built manufacturing facility adjacent to the Isuzu Motors South Africa (IMSAf) assembly plant in Struandale, marking a major milestone for South Africa’s automotive value chain, black industrialisation, and the Eastern Cape’s manufacturing ecosystem.
FAW Trucks Southern Africa recently welcomed the extended Southern African regional dealer network and teams as well as country managers, sales directors and technical heads from across the continent to its flagship manufacturing facility in the Coega Industrial Development Zone for the 2025 Export Dealer Conference.
With a passion for the brand and a commitment to delivering the best service and community involvement, MG’s new flagship dealer in Fourways is ready to take the iconic nameplate to new heights.
Advertisement
Advertisement
I always do like seeing other people dance in their cars. It's one of the things that makes me happy.
Ariel Gore
VSL Manufacturing officially unveiled its new R750 million, purpose-built manufacturing facility adjacent to the Isuzu Motors South Africa (IMSAf) assembly plant in Struandale, marking a major milestone for South Africa’s automotive value chain, black industrialisation, and the Eastern Cape’s manufacturing ecosystem.
FAW Trucks Southern Africa recently welcomed the extended Southern African regional dealer network and teams as well as country managers, sales directors and technical heads from across the continent to its flagship manufacturing facility in the Coega Industrial Development Zone for the 2025 Export Dealer Conference.
The establishment of Stellantis's new car plant in Coega in the Eastern Cape might take a bit longer than expected owing to numerous factors.
