First Battery has announced the appointment of Shane Petersen (photo) as the company’s Director of Sales and Marketing.
Shane brings a wealth of experience from his extensive career spanning from mobility to energy, and from multinational enterprises to First Battery, says the company.
“As we transition towards a future defined by sustainability and innovation, Shane’s appointment demonstrates our commitment to driving positive change in the energy sector,” says Russel Bezuidenhout, CEO of First Battery. His extensive experience and strategic vision will be instrumental in advancing our mission of empowering industries and consumers with sustainable energy solutions.”
“Economies are transitioning from lead-acid to advanced lithium-ion batteries, signifying a fundamental evolution in energy storage technology. First Battery deeply understands the role of lithium-ion batteries in facilitating the shift to renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power. Lithium-ion presents a monumental leap in energy storage technology,” says Shane.
According to a recent report by Mordor Intelligence, the global battery market is projected to experience substantial growth from 2024 to 2029, with a remarkable 16.64% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), reaching a value of USD 132.44 billion by 2029.
This growth is primarily driven by declining lithium-ion battery prices, the increasing adoption of electric vehicles and the integration of batteries with renewable energy sources. Significant advancements in battery technology, including mechanically rechargeable zinc-air batteries offering improved economics and longevity, are anticipated.
The report further shows that innovations such as low-cost batteries utilising aluminium and sulphur electrodes with a molten salt electrolyte are enhancing the market's potential for affordable backup storage in renewable energy applications.
Meanwhile the market's expansion is further fuelled by a growing demand for uninterruptible power supply devices (UPS), the expanding e-mobility sector and ongoing advancements in product efficiency and cost effectiveness, according to First Battery.
“Petersen's appointment as our new Director of Sales and Marketing signifies our commitment to driving growth across all customer lines. With his expertise, we are positioned to meet the evolving needs of our customers and the market,” says Russel.
The Kia Carens nameplate makes its return to South Africa, this time as a seven‑seater designed with families in mind. It combines Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) styling with Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) practicality, offering space, comfort and efficiency, Kia says.
Volvo has confirmed that its vehicles will now integrate Google’s Gemini artificial intelligence system. This development builds on the company’s existing collaboration with Google, which already provides Android Automotive OS and Google services in Volvo models.
New vehicle sales in 2026 continued their positive trend in April, with the 47 979 units sold marking the best April figure since 2013. This represents a remarkable performance by local automotive retailers despite a host of economic headwinds and a challenging trading environment.
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Volvo has confirmed that its vehicles will now integrate Google’s Gemini artificial intelligence system. This development builds on the company’s existing collaboration with Google, which already provides Android Automotive OS and Google services in Volvo models.
New vehicle sales in 2026 continued their positive trend in April, with the 47 979 units sold marking the best April figure since 2013. This represents a remarkable performance by local automotive retailers despite a host of economic headwinds and a challenging trading environment.
April 2026 marked a turning point in South Africa’s economic landscape, as global energy markets were jolted by escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, according to naamsa | The Automotive Business Council.
