Zero Carbon Charge (CHARGE) welcomes President Ramaphosa’s announcement that government is considering introducing new electric vehicle (EV) incentives during his address at SA Auto Week 2024 held in Cape Town.
He indicated these incentives could include tax rebates for consumers who currently face a 25% tax on EVs compared to the 18% on internal combustion vehicles, which would help accelerate the adoption of EVs and South Africa’s just energy transition.
While this news is welcome, in order for EVs to contribute towards a reduction in our country’s carbon emissions, they need to be powered by green energy sources. CHARGE’s own research shows that an EV charged from Eskom’s predominantly coal-powered grid indirectly emits 5.8 tonnes of CO2 per year compared to a petrol-driven car, which emits 4.4 tonnes per year.
“The development of an off-grid, renewably powered EV-charging network is the only viable option for South Africa to meet its carbon-reduction goals. It will also play a vital part in meeting the Department of Transport’s target of net-zero transport by 2050,” says Joubert Roux, Executive Chairman of CHARGE.
CHARGE is currently developing a network of 120 solar-powered, off-grid charging stations for electric passenger and light commercial vehicles, as well as 120 charging stations for electric trucks. These stations, which will be located on major highways across the country, will be loadshedding-proof and equipped with ultra-fast charging technology.
“This project is a large-scale, national carbon emission reduction initiative that can contribute towards our country’s just energy transition. CHARGE estimates that if we fully migrate the vehicle fleet currently registered on government’s E-NATIS system to electric vehicles charged with solar power, we could reduce the country’s carbon emissions by over ninety-seven million (97 000 000) tonnes of CO2e per year,” added Roux.
“CHARGE looks forward to hearing more details about the EV incentives to be introduced by President Ramaphosa. We hope that any government strategy to encourage a transition to EVs will prioritise the reduction of red tape currently hampering the development of off-grid EV-charging stations on our roads. CHARGE remains committed to working with government to create a green, sustainable transport sector in South Africa,” he concludes.
Jeanne Esterhuizen, who leads the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), has issued a compelling appeal to the wider automotive aftermarket sector to sustain and strengthen its commitment to safety excellence, environmental responsibility and superior operational standards. These are cornerstones she believes are vital for developing a resilient and ethically sound industry.
The Chinese automotive company, the Harmony Motor Group, which originally focused on luxury and ultra-luxury car dealerships, has shifted a gear with the overseas distribution of Chinese new-energy vehicles, particularly BYD.
Given the ongoing discussions about logistics efficiency, diesel price volatility and the broader freight performance outlook in South Africa, Dealerfloor publish commentary from Banie Claasen, Managing Executive for Specialised Lending Products at Absa Business Banking on this important topic.
Advertisement
Advertisement
I have bad reflexes. I was once run over by a car being pushed by two guys
Woody Allen
Jeanne Esterhuizen, who leads the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), has issued a compelling appeal to the wider automotive aftermarket sector to sustain and strengthen its commitment to safety excellence, environmental responsibility and superior operational standards. These are cornerstones she believes are vital for developing a resilient and ethically sound industry.
Given the ongoing discussions about logistics efficiency, diesel price volatility and the broader freight performance outlook in South Africa, Dealerfloor publish commentary from Banie Claasen, Managing Executive for Specialised Lending Products at Absa Business Banking on this important topic.
The South African motor industry continues to defy expectations by posting another month of exceptional growth.
